Assistant Director, Office of Pupil Transportation and Fleet Management

Job Description

The Assistant Director of Pupil Transportation and Fleet Management plays a critical leadership role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of all transportation services within Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS). This position requires a strategic approach to operational management, financial oversight, and human resources, balancing day-to-day responsibilities with long-term planning and organizational development. This role will support in leading a team of transportation professionals, assist in managing a multi-million-dollar budget, ensure local, state and federal regulatory compliance, and foster an environment of continuous improvement. A key function of this role is to provide strategic support to the Director and act as the department’s lead in their absence.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Transportation Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Language: Ability to speak and understand English; Bilingual is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in transportation leadership, with demonstrated expertise in budget oversight, HR functions, and compliance. Experience in a K-12 school district or public sector environment is preferred.
• Certifications: None required. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) preferred or willingness to obtain CDL within six months.

Key Competencies

• Financial Acumen: Strong knowledge of budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with public sector financial regulations.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead diverse teams, foster a positive work culture, and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to assess complex operational challenges and develop innovative, data-driven solutions.
• Technical Expertise: Proficiency with transportation management systems, financial software, and route planning tools.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and management of the transportation department’s annual budget, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Analyze transportation expenditures regularly and identify opportunities for cost savings.
• Develop financial forecasting models for transportation needs, fleet maintenance, and staffing.
• Oversee procurement and vendor contracts, ensuring alignment with contract specifications, district policies and budget goals.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local transportation safety laws and regulations, as well as licensing/certification.
• Oversee safety training for transportation staff, ensuring CDL and ACPS policy compliance.
• Oversee the recruitment, retention, and performance evaluation of transportation staff. Partner with the Director and HR as necessary.
• Oversee development and implementation of bus/van routes and staff schedules.
• Collaborate on staff development programs focused on job performance, customer service, and safety.
• Oversee vehicle maintenance and integrate technology for improved operational efficiency.
• Supervise and manage personnel within the transportation department, to include praise for positive performance and correcting deficient performance
• Act as liaison with school leaders, parents, and community stakeholders, and serve as Acting Director in the Director’s absence.

Clearances

• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance
• Tuberculosis Skin Test