Transit Executive Director

Recruitology; Bismarck (ND); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

West River Transit seeks a Transit Executive Director to guide a 7-county rural transit program from the Bismarck area. You will provide strategic leadership, oversee operations, and ensure reliable access to employment, healthcare, education, and community services.

The role requires 5–7 years in transit, strong leadership, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement, with in‑person duties across the region.

Qualifications

• Leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven budgeting, contract management, and public relations capabilities.
• Strong strategic thinking and staff leadership abilities.
• Experience collaborating with boards and senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Strategic leadership: set transit goals aligned with policies across7 counties.
• Program management: oversee planning, operation, and maintenance of transit services.
• Community engagement: build relationships with residents and agencies.
• Budget and operations: manage contracts, capital projects, procurement, and adherence to regulations.
• Safety and compliance: ensure ADA, DOT/FTA, and local regulations are followed.
• Coordination: partner with neighboring municipalities to optimize coverage.
• Staff leadership: hire, train, and mentor transit staff.

Job description

Position Opening: Transit Executive Director-Bismarck, ND

Position: Transit Executive Director for West River Transit

Location: Bismarck, ND

Employment Type: Full-time, permanent, in-person, in office

Salary Range: Competitive, commensurate with experience and market standards forExecutive Director leadership roles in ND

About the Role

The Transit Executive Director will serve as the chief executive for the 7-county transit program, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, public service to the areas and their residents. This role is critical in rural areas, where public transportation serves as a vital link to employment, healthcare appointments, education, community engagement, travel transfers, and other essential transportation needs of the community.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic leadership: Develop and implement transit goals aligned with city or county policies, State and Federal regulations for public transit. Coordination within the 7 counties served by providing the transit services of those communities.
• Program Management: Oversee the planning, operation, and maintenance of public transit services, including paratransit, seasonal events, and any special needs transportation.
• Community Engagement: Build strong relationships with residents, stakeholders, and other agencies to ensure the service needs of the community.
• Budget & Operations: Manage budget, State and Federal contracts written and executed for NDDOT/FTA. Capital projects, vehicle procurement, to ensure efficient use of resources and compliance with State and Federal regulations.
• Safety & Compliance: Maintain high safety standards for all transit operations and ensure adherence to ADA regulations, DOT/FTA regulations, and local laws.
• Coordination: Work with neighboring municipalities, community education agencies, other transit providers to optimize service coverage and reduce duplication of services.
• Staff Leadership: Hire, train, and mentor transit staff on regulations, all policies, safety requirements, along with fostering a culture of professionalism, safe, and secure services.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Public Administration, Transportation, or related field.
• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive experience in transit operations, planning, and public service management.
• Demonstrated experience in rural or small community transit environment preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in budgeting, contract management, and public relations.
• Communicate and work relationships with Board of Directors, assist and participate with quarterly Board meetings, along with training of board members.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel throughout the 7 counties served, attend State meeting, and or State/Federal training. Transporting staff or customers for daily operations, as needed.

Why Apply

This is an opportunity to shape and lead a vital public service in rural ND communities, directly impacting quality of life, economic access, and community connectivity through transportation needs. The role offers the chance to innovate in transit solutions for underserved areas while contributing to regional mobility goals for all areas.

Application: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and references to: West River Transit, Executive Director

3750 E Rosser Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58501

Or email to: [e-mail]

• Closing Date: October 30, 2026

Note: Applicants should inquire about the local budget, salary/benefits, and service scope during the scheduled interview.