What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Operating Officer position at DULUTH TRANSIT AUTHORITY?
Imagine running a powerhouse transit agency by day and taking in sweeping views of the world's largest freshwater lake by night! Welcome to Duluth, Minnesota, where peak operational excellence meets an unbelievable quality of life. The Duluth Transit Authority isn’t looking for a caretaker; we’re handing the keys to a high-performing, razor-sharp operational machine that is fresh off a massive system redesign, constantly innovating, and driving colossal ridership growth. As our next Chief Operating Officer, you won't be spinning your wheels, putting out fires or sitting in gridlock; you’ll be stepping directly onto a rock-solid foundation with the drive to build the future. We are preparing to launch full-scale Bus Rapid Transit system, rolling out cutting-edge intelligent transit tech, and redefining regional mobility for a community that fiercely loves its transit network. If you’re an ambitious leader ready to trade soul-crushing big-city traffic for high-impact executive leadership, world-class outdoor adventure, and a legendary quality of life, this is the career-defining opportunity you’ve been waiting for. For more information about the DTA and this position, click here!
- All Transit Ranks Duluth #4 of 131 similarly sized metro areas
- Ridership has grown over 45% since 2021
- Only 15 OF 320 eligible transit agencies rank higher then the DTA in performance categories, putting us in the top 5%
The primary responsibilities of the COO are assuring that all employees of the Operations Division complete their work in a manner that is professional, of the highest quality, and as cost-effective as possible.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Work with the CEO to determine the goals and needs of the Operations division.
- Implement programs and communicate solutions as necessary to attain stated goals.
- Administer company policy and monitor bus operator performance.
- Ensure that an adequate labor force projection is accurate.
- Accurately maintain all necessary records and assure the union contract is correctly interpreted and that its provisions are fairly and consistently applied.
- Prepare all reports as necessary. Review internal and external communications. Review data to determine the goals and needs of the division.
- Monitor the bus service delivery system and ensure that the public is receiving quality bus service that is safe, comfortable, on time, and efficient.
- Handle all Union relations and issues
- Administer the FTA-required Safety Sensitive Drug and Alcohol testing program.
- Serve as a member of the company contract negotiating team for unionized employees. Conduct negotiations in accordance with fair labor practices.
- Assist in the development and management of the divisional budget.
- Represent the company at community functions and events as needed.
- Serve as a DTA representative on boards and committees as required.
- Perform other related duties as may be required.
DTA Employees enjoy an amazing fringe benefits package that includes:
- Competitive salary, increasing based on paratransit experience
- 12% match of salary to a company sponsored money market pension
- Training and Career Development Opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Flexible spending account (FSA)
- Health insurance-full paid monthly premiums for employee & family, $500 deductible per person, max of $1500 per family
- Dental Insurance-fully paid monthly premiums for employee & family
- Vision Insurance-fully paid monthly premiums for employee & family
- Life insurance-fully paid monthly premiums for employee
- Access to Minnesota Deferred Compensation Plan, including a 401(k) and Roth IRA
- Free bus passes for employee and immediate family
- Paid vacation
- Paid sick time
- Relocation assistance