Transportation Unit Leader

JOB SUMMARY

 The Transportation Unit Leader serves as a frontline operations leader within HISD’s Transportation Department, directly overseeing the daily performance and compliance of approximately 20 bus drivers and transportation attendants. This position plays a vital role in ensuring safe, efficient, and student-centered transportation services that support the district’s instructional mission.

Aligned with HISD’s high-performance culture and commitment to equity, the Transportation Unit Leader is responsible for monitoring attendance, supporting fleet readiness, addressing student-specific needs, and fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability. This role ensures daily operations meet the district’s expectations for service reliability, regulatory compliance, and safe student travel.
 

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1.     Monitor Attendance & Time Compliance
•    Track and oversee clock-in/out activity to ensure staff punctuality and attendance accuracy.
•    Review timekeeping reports, resolve discrepancies, and monitor overtime to manage direct and indirect labor hours effectively.
2.     Ensure Fleet Readiness & Operational Coordination
•    Collaborate with the Fleet Department to confirm all assigned buses are road-ready each day.
•    Ensure drivers complete pre-trip inspections, follow vehicle cleanliness protocols, maintain appropriate fuel levels, and park according to terminal procedures.
3.     Support Safe Transportation for Special Populations
•    Help implement transportation procedures tailored to students with disabilities, ensuring alignment with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
•    Reinforce staff understanding of medical, behavioral, or physical accommodations required for specific student riders.
4.     Promote Student Safety & Attendant Development
•    Support and train attendants in student supervision and safety practices during transport.
•    Participate in professional development and departmental training to remain informed and responsive to student needs.
 

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED

5.     Complete Administrative & Compliance Functions
•    Maintain accurate records and support clerical tasks related to routing, service delivery, and operational tracking.
•    Prepare monthly schedules and generate reports that support documentation requirements, including those tied to Medicaid reimbursement.
6.     Provide Operational Flexibility & Coverage
•    Secure substitute coverage for driver absences and be available to operate routes during emergencies or staff shortages, ensuring uninterrupted student transportation.
7     Foster Effective Communication & Team Engagement
•    Promote respectful, two-way communication with drivers and attendants to build trust, alignment, and shared accountability.
•    Collaborate with dispatch, terminal leadership, and Transportation Coordinators to address challenges and improve overall service quality.
8.     Perform Other Duties as Assigned
•    Demonstrate flexibility, initiative, and professionalism in supporting additional tasks or projects that contribute to the department’s mission of safe, reliable service for all HISD students.
 

EDUCATION

   Associate’s Degree, preferred.

*Applicants who do not meet these qualifications may be considered if they have a unique combination of education and work experience that indicate potential for success in this role.
 

WORK EXPERIENCE

   3 -5 years of related job experience.
 

SKILL AND/OR REQUIRED LICENSING/CERTIFICATION

•    Class B CDL with Passenger and School Bus Endorsement, Texas School Bus Driver Certification and Federal DOT certification within 60 days.
•    Possess and maintain an acceptable motor vehicle record.    
 

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

•    Regularly manages staff in the completion of large-scale projects or a very closely related set of projects/initiatives often spanning multiple disciplines. 
•    Receives strategies and broad departmental objectives from senior leadership; establishes operational objectives and work plans; delegates assignments to subordinate management and staff. 
•    Allocates resources according to priorities and serves as the primary decision maker regarding hiring, performance and budget.