Manager

FTA Contracts ManagerBlue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 25,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses sold. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions.The FTA Contracts Manager is responsible for managing opportunities and contracts related to the public transit market funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), from identifying requests for proposals (RFPs) through contract execution. The individual ensures alignment between client requirements, contractual commitments, the proposed solution, internal capabilities, and Micro Bird's business objectives.This strategic role oversees RFI/RFQ/RFP activities, contract governance, and performance monitoring, while ensuring that targeted contracts comply with applicable Buy America Act (BAA) requirements. The individual serves as the central point of contact between internal sales, the Drummondville teams, the external sales team in Georgia, project managers in Plattsburgh, and support functions, including legal, finance, operations, engineering, and compliance.Essential duties and responsibilities include:Managing opportunities and bidsContract governanceCoordination of contract executionCross-functional leadership and collaborationPerformance, governance, and continuous improvementOn-site presence and representationKnowledge, skills and abilities for success include:Significant experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or regulated environmentStrong understanding of RFI/RFQ/RFP processesProven experience in team management and cross-functional coordinationBilingualism in French and English is requiredKnowledge of FTA/BAA environments and a project management certification are a plusHigh level of attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and meticulous record-keepingEnergy, initiative, and a strong ability to drive projects forward with determination and sound judgmentExcellent communication skills in French and EnglishWillingness to travel regularly between Drummondville and Plattsburgh, as well as for certain client visits or industry eventsBasic education and experience required:Bachelor's degree in business administration, engineering, law, project management, or a related fieldAt least 10 years of experience in roles related to complex bidding processes, contract management, industrial project management, or business governanceAll candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hireWe value:Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidanceExcellent interpersonal and customer relationship skills to handle difficult and sensitive mattersStrong project management skillsAbility to influence stakeholdersEffective communication and ability to communicate complex details in a clear mannerFlexible workspaces and work hours to help you unleash the best youWorking in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectivesIncludes:Continued Professional DevelopmentBenefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 14 paid holidays, vacation time and 401k matchingWork conditions:Office environment and production environmentMust work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, cold and noiseFast-paced production area with moving objects and sheet metalOccasional periods of standing or sitting for extended periods of timeYou must wear appropriate PPE when and where requiredFrequent weeks working 40+ hoursFrequent communication with people throughout the dayBlue Bird® is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. We strive to have the best available talent in every job based on the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities each person brings. Blue Bird is committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in Company operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination in all forms.