Maintenance Manager

Connect Transit is the primary public transit system serving Bloomington-Normal and McLean County, committed to providing safe, reliable transportation that enriches lives and strengthens the community. We value collaboration, integrity, and excellence in service. Our dedicated team works to ensure that all residents and visitors have convenient access to affordable transit options, supporting economic growth and fostering a sense of connection throughout the region. By continually investing in innovative technology, modern vehicles, and customer-focused initiatives, Connect Transit strives to improve mobility and enhance the overall quality of life for everyone in the community. About the Role The Maintenance Manager serves as the strategic and operational leader of the Maintenance Department, responsible for ensuring the reliability, safety, and longevity of the agency’s fleet and facilities. This role focuses on long-range planning, preventative maintenance strategy, workforce leadership, and performance management rather than hands‑on repair work. The Maintenance Manager establishes department vision and priorities, develops and monitors budgets, and ensures compliance with all regulatory and safety requirements. This position plays a key leadership role in organizational planning and collaborates across departments to align maintenance operations with service delivery goals. A strong emphasis is placed on leading and developing staff, fostering a culture of safety and accountability, and effectively managing a represented workforce within a collective bargaining environment. Wages $85,000–$95,000, annually Responsibilities Provide strategic leadership and direction for all fleet and facility maintenance operations, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and service requirements. Develop, implement, and continuously improve a comprehensive preventative maintenance program to maximize asset reliability and lifecycle performance. Lead, supervise, and develop maintenance staff, including performance management, coaching, training, and succession planning. Establish departmental priorities, allocate resources, and adjust workflows to meet operational demands efficiently. Administer and interpret the Collective Bargaining Agreement; manage labor relations matters and participate in grievance processes as needed. Foster a strong safety culture by ensuring compliance with safety programs, policies, and regulatory requirements. Develop and manage the maintenance department’s operating and capital budgets; monitor expenditures and identify cost‑control opportunities. Utilize data, metrics, and maintenance management systems to track performance, identify trends, and drive continuous improvement. Collaborate with executive leadership and other departments on strategic initiatives, capital planning, and service planning efforts. Oversee procurement planning for parts, materials, equipment, and contracted services in coordination with purchasing processes. Support the development of vehicle and equipment specifications and long‑term asset replacement strategies. Manage emergency response related to fleet and facility readiness, ensuring continuity of operations. Build and maintain effective relationships with employees, union representatives, vendors, contractors, and regulatory agencies. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience High school diploma or equivalent required; additional technical or management training preferred. Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in fleet or facilities maintenance, including leadership or supervisory responsibilities. Experience managing or supervising staff in a unionized or represented work environment is strongly preferred. Experience in public transit or a regulated environment preferred. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Certificates & Licenses Possession of, or the ability to obtain within six months of hire, a valid Illinois Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Air Brake and Passenger endorsements. Must maintain a driving record that is acceptable to the agency’s insurance carrier. Additional professional certifications in maintenance management or fleet operations (e.g., ASE, CPM, or similar) are a plus but not required. Knowledge & Skills Principles of maintenance management, including preventative maintenance planning and asset lifecycle management. Leadership and supervisory practices, including employee development and performance management. Labor relations principles and experience working with collective bargaining agreements. Budget development, financial management, and resource planning. Applicable federal, state, and local regulations related to transit operations and maintenance. Data‑driven decision making, including use of maintenance metrics and management systems. Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to think strategically while executing operational priorities. Proficiency with maintenance management software and Microsoft Office Suite. Physical & Work Environment Primarily administrative and operational leadership role with regular presence in maintenance facilities. Combination of office and field environment with exposure to typical maintenance and transit operations conditions. Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds and operate standard office equipment. Occasional business travel may be required. Dental, Vision, and Life insurance. Paid time off and holidays. Retirement plan with 5% employer contribution. Connect Transit is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. This commitment applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, and professional development. Connect Transit is an EEO/AA employer (Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability). #J-18808-Ljbffr