Director of Transportation

Summary

Paradise Unified School District (PUSD) is seeking a proven, safety-focused leader to serve as Director of Transportation. This executive-level position provides strategic and operational leadership over all aspects of the District’s student transportation system, ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable transportation of students each day.

The Director of Transportation oversees bus operations, routing and scheduling, driver supervision and training, fleet maintenance, regulatory compliance, and departmental budgeting. This role is central to fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and service while supporting student success and operational excellence across the district.

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in school transportation management, a strong commitment to student safety, and the ability to lead teams through collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. This is a unique opportunity to join a resilient, community-centered school district and make a meaningful impact for students and families.

Job Description

The Director of Transportation provides strategic and operational leadership for all aspects of Paradise Unified School District’s student transportation program. This position is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable transportation of students while maintaining full compliance with state and federal regulations.

The Director oversees daily transportation operations, including bus routing and scheduling, driver supervision and training, fleet maintenance, safety programs, and departmental budgeting. This role serves as a key leader within the district, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Essential Functions

• Plan, organize, direct, and manage all District transportation and vehicle maintenance operations.

• Develop, implement, and monitor transportation policies and procedures to ensure safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.

• Oversee bus routing, scheduling, and driver assignments for daily routes and special transportation needs.

• Supervise, train, and evaluate transportation staff, including drivers, dispatchers, and maintenance personnel.

• Establish and manage preventive maintenance programs to meet or exceed California Highway Patrol (CHP) standards.

• Ensure compliance with the California Vehicle Code, Education Code, CHP regulations, and Department of Motor Vehicles requirements.

• Investigate transportation-related incidents and accidents; implement corrective and preventive safety measures.

• Prepare and administer the transportation department budget, including forecasting, procurement, and inventory control.

• Serve as the District liaison with regulatory agencies, law enforcement, and community partners.

• Coordinate and oversee state-mandated safety and evacuation drills.

• Maintain accurate records and prepare reports related to transportation operations, compliance, and costs.

• Implement technology and data-driven solutions to improve routing, communication, and operational effectiveness.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Five (5) years of experience operating a school bus or working within school transportation operations, including experience in a supervisory or leadership role.

• Valid California Driver’s License.

• Valid California School Bus Driver’s Certificate.

• Current First Aid, CPR, and Medical Certificates.

• Ability to obtain a California School Bus Driver Instructor Certificate (if not currently held).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the California Vehicle Code, Education Code, and California Highway Patrol pupil transportation regulations.

• Knowledge of school bus routing, scheduling, dispatch, and transportation logistics.

• Understanding of fleet maintenance, preventive maintenance programs, inspections, and parts procurement.

• Ability to prepare and manage department budgets, monitor expenditures, and allocate resources effectively.

• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, including the ability to train, evaluate, and support staff.

• Ability to analyze operational data and implement process improvements.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate clearly and tactfully with staff, families, administrators, and community partners.

• Sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism when handling sensitive personnel and safety matters.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure and respond calmly during emergency or high-stress situations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience serving as a Transportation Director, Supervisor, or Operations Manager in a school district or public-sector environment.

• Possession of a California School Bus Driver Instructor Certificate.

• Experience with transportation routing software and fleet management systems.

• Demonstrated success leading teams, managing organizational change, and fostering a positive safety culture.

• Experience working with regulatory agencies such as the California Highway Patrol.

Physical & Working Conditions

• Ability to stand, stoop, bend, reach, and lift up to 75 pounds.

• Work may involve exposure to outdoor conditions, loud noise, and vehicle emissions.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.