Transit Executive Director

AgUpdate; Bismarck, Northern (ND, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Agupdate in partnership with West River Transit seeks a Transit Executive Director to lead the 7-county system from Bismarck, ND. You will set strategic direction, ensure reliable service, and steward public funds while maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations.

This role requires advanced leadership, experience in rural transit, budget oversight, contract management, and strong community engagement.

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.
• Experience in rural or small community transit environment preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Strategic leadership: Develop and implement transit goals aligned with city or county policies and regulations.
• Coordinate within the 7 counties served to provide transit services.
• Oversee planning, operation, and maintenance of public transit services, including paratransit and special events.
• Budget & Operations: Manage budgets and contracts with State and Federal agencies.
• Safety & Compliance: Maintain high safety standards and ADA/DOT/FTA compliance.
• Staff Leadership: Hire, train, and mentor transit staff and collaborate with the Board.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Budgeting

Contract management

Public relations

Board liaison

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Public Administration, Transportation, or related field

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

Salary Range: Competitive, commensurate with experience and market standards for Executive 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

3750 E Rosser Avenue

Bismarck, ND 58501

Closing Date: October 15, 2026

Note

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