Manager - Assistant Director of Transportation @ Transportation Department

Assistant Director Of Transportation

The Assistant Director of Transportation assists the Director of Transportation in the administration and daily operation of the Moses Lake School District Transportation Department. Reporting directly to the Director, this position provides leadership for the day-to-day implementation of transportation services and assists in supervising departmental operations, personnel, fleet maintenance, routing, training, safety, budgeting, and regulatory compliance.

The Assistant Director is responsible for coordinating daily transportation activities, supervising assigned employees, implementing departmental procedures, resolving operational issues, and ensuring the efficient delivery of transportation services. The Assistant Director supports employee development, promotes a positive culture of safety and customer service, and assists with personnel administration, investigations, training, and performance management.

Working under the direction of the Director, the Assistant Director serves as the Director's designee when assigned or during the Director's absence, ensuring continuity of operations while supporting the department's mission, strategic goals, and commitment to safe, reliable, and student-centered transportation services.

Qualifications

• Central Washington University Transportation Management Certification or willingness to obtain.
• Minimum three (3) years of transportation experience.
• Minimum two (2) years of supervisory experience preferred.
• Valid Washington State driver's license.
• Washington State Class B Commercial Driver License with appropriate endorsements or ability to obtain.
• Current First Aid/CPR certification or ability to obtain.
• Successful completion of required background screening.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of pupil transportation operations and regulations.
• Ability to supervise employees effectively.
• Knowledge of routing software and fleet operations.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to resolve employee and customer concerns professionally.
• Ability to conduct investigations and maintain confidential records.
• Working knowledge of budgeting and purchasing practices.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, routing software, and district information systems.

Essential Job Functions

Operational Support

• Assist with the daily management of transportation operations.
• Coordinate bus routes, field trips, special education transportation, and driver assignments.
• Monitor service efficiency and recommend operational improvements.
• Assist with emergency response planning and operational decision-making.

Personnel Support

• Assist with recruitment, interviews, onboarding, orientation, and training.
• Supervise assigned transportation personnel.
• Conduct observations and assist with employee evaluations.
• Assist with investigations, corrective action, and conflict resolution.
• Coordinate staff meetings and professional development activities.

Fleet and Safety

• Assist with preventative maintenance scheduling and fleet inspections.
• Coordinate accident reporting and follow-up investigations.
• Monitor compliance with state and federal transportation regulations.
• Support driver safety training and certification requirements.
• Promote a culture of safety throughout the department.

Financial and Administrative Support

• Assist in preparing and monitoring departmental budgets.
• Review invoices, transportation reports, and reimbursement documentation.
• Assist with transportation cooperative operations and billing.
• Maintain required records and operational reports.

Customer Service

• Respond to questions and concerns from families, schools, and community members.
• Build collaborative relationships with district departments and outside agencies.
• Promote professional customer service throughout the department.

Other Responsibilities

• Serve as acting Director in the Director's absence or as assigned.
• Drive a school bus when operationally necessary.
• Respond to emergencies outside normal work hours.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Work Conditions

• Frequent interaction with employees, students, parents, and community agencies.
• Evening and weekend work as needed.
• Availability during emergencies and adverse weather conditions.
• Occasional travel for professional development and district business.