Operations Director

OATS Transit is seeking a strategic, results-driven Operations Director to lead, optimize, and scale our statewide transit network. Serving a critical mission across an 87-county service area in Missouri, with an office in Columbia, MO, this role directly oversees fleet management, safety compliance, and comprehensive operational support.

As a key member of our executive leadership team, you will ensure the delivery of safe, reliable, and efficient public transportation to thousands of community members. If you are a transit professional with a passion for public service and community impact, we want you on our team.

Key Responsibilities Fleet Management & Maintenance Asset Lifecycle:
Oversee the procurement, deployment, maintenance, and disposal of a large, decentralized transit fleet.

Vendor Operations:
Manage relationships with maintenance vendors and fuel suppliers across the 87-county footprint to ensure minimal vehicle downtime.

Capital Planning:
Assist in budget forecasting for vehicle replacements and technology upgrades.

Safety, Risk & Compliance Regulatory Oversight:
Ensure 100% compliance with Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Department of Transportation (DOT), and state regulations.

Safety Programs:
Develop, implement, and enforce robust safety protocols, driver training programs, and accident prevention strategies.

Incident Response:
Lead investigations into operational incidents and oversee the resolution of risk management claims.

Operational Support & Leadership Regional Logistics:
Provide strategic direction to 6 Regional Directors and regional staff to optimize scheduling, routing, and daily performance.

Technology Integration:
Champion the use of transit software, AVL/GPS tracking, and data analytics to improve operational efficiency.

Budget Accountability:
Manage the operations budget, tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to control costs while maintaining high service standards.

Qualifications

Experience:

Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive leadership experience in transit operations, logistics, or large-scale fleet management.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Public Administration, or a related field (equivalent experience considered).Sector Knowledge:
Prior experience in non-profit, public transit, or rural transit systems is highly preferred.

Compliance Expertise:
Deep familiarity with DOT and FTA regulations, transit asset management (TAM), and transit safety management systems (SMS).

Skills:

Exceptional leadership, analytical problem-solving, and communication skills. Ability to manage a highly decentralized workforce across a vast geographic area.

Benefits & Compensation Health Insurance after the 90th day (plus excellent rates for spouse & family coverage)
Dental Insurance
- Employee premium as low as $5/month.

Vision Insurance - Employee premium as low as $8/month.

Life Insurance- company paid life.

Generous paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.

Retirement plan with 3% Employer Match plus a top-hat executive retirement plan.

Employee Assistant Program Opportunities for professional development and continuing education including an annual bonus for acquiring and maintaining the CTAA-sponsored Certified Community Transit Manager (CCTM) certification/