Bus Operations Supervisor

About the role

The Bus Operations Supervisor oversees and maintains the safe and scheduled operations of the 24/7 Metrobus service. This role monitors and evaluates Bus Operators on time performance, enforces operating rules and company policies, documents operating infractions, and conducts accident investigations for both bus and non-revenue vehicle accidents. The incumbent determines the need for Federal Transportation Administration’s (FTA) drug and alcohol testing and assists WMATA customers. Responsibilities include managing assigned bus routes, anticipating and identifying issues that impact system operations, and working various shifts, including evenings, overnights, weekends, holidays, and special events.

Responsibilities

• Supervises Bus Operators, monitors and evaluates in-service performance, provides instruction and feedback, recommends additional training, and documents information for progressive discipline in conformance with District policies and Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• Oversees and maintains the safe and scheduled operation of transit vehicles, ensuring passenger loads are within designated parameters.
• Enforces WMATA policies, standard operating procedures, and rules and regulations.
• Manages Bus Transportation’s response to Rail Emergencies as a first responder, organizing and controlling bus bridges and other events affecting bus movement.
• Responds to customers’ needs and complaints, Operator/Passenger disputes, and participates in unemployment and arbitration hearings.
• Participates in the training of new Bus Operations Supervisors and attends Division Safety and local community meetings.
• Analyzes and makes recommendations regarding schedule adherence and other operational needs or problems; reports discrepancies and unsafe conditions and recommends corrective actions.
• Investigates traffic problems and anomalies; interacts proactively with Bus Operators, Operations Control Center, and Maintenance Staff.
• Operates multiple computer systems and monitors information from sources such as CleverCAD, NextBus, traffic information, and live video.
• Maintains contact with Operations Control Center via radio, cellphone, and laptop to receive and transmit information; interacts with customers and officials from law enforcement, utilities, and schools.
• Documents operating infractions such as unsafe operation, schedule adherence, cut trips, unauthorized uniform, and electronic equipment use, while providing ongoing coaching and counseling.
• Investigates WMATA bus and non-revenue vehicle accidents, determines if FTA/WMATA policy testing is required, transports to WMATA’s testing facility, and completes reports.
• Completes incident and accident reports and uploads them into the Safety Management System (SMS) in a timely manner.
• Provides shuttle supervision to support Rail Operations during emergencies.
• Operates two-way radio systems, telephones, and cell phones to receive, record, and assist with incidents requiring coordination with agencies such as Police, Fire, and Sheriff’s departments.
• Coordinates with Bus Planning to recommend schedule and routing adjustments for long-term detours.
• Researches and recommends short-term route detours after incidents or severe weather events.
• Drives/moves buses as needed during severe weather events.
• Maintains and promotes awareness and accountability with safety policies and procedures while performing job functions.
• Promotes a positive safety culture and encourages reporting of safety concerns consistent with the Agency Safety Plan and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

Knowledge

• Thorough knowledge or capacity to be fully trained on WMATA’s Bus Safety Policies, Federal Safety and Organizational Policies and Procedures, WMATA Bus Operations Standard Operating Procedures and Equipment, Radio, and Emergency Communication Procedures, Codes, and Protocols.

Skills

• Strong analytical skills to conduct thorough investigations of daily accidents and incidents.
• Strong written communication skills for writing Accident/Incident reports, customer complaint correspondence, memos, and citation violations.
• Strong oral communication skills.
• Intermediate computer and technology skills to operate various software applications and use laptops, handheld radios, and similar devices.
• Strong and effective interpersonal skills.

Abilities

• Ability to apply critical thinking skills to strategically keep bus service moving through impacts to service delivery.

Tools and Equipment

• Tablet/Laptop
• Hand-held radio
• Camera
• Cell phone
• Safety Measurement System (SMS)
• CleverCAD and Smart Draw

Supervisory Responsibility

• Supervises the work of others, including planning, assigning, and scheduling work, reviewing work, ensuring quality standards, training staff, and overseeing productivity.
• May offer recommendations for hiring, termination, and pay adjustments but does not have final decision-making responsibility.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education: High School Diploma or GED.
• Minimum Experience:
  • A minimum of seven (7) years of experience in the transit industry in any capacity (bus or rail operations).
  • A minimum of three (3) years prior experience as a Commuter, Transportation, or Transit Operator (Bus or Rail).
• Minimum Certification/Licensure: Valid driver’s license with CDL passenger endorsement to operate buses in emergencies and legally operate a WMATA motor vehicle.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Transportation, Communications, or Business Administration.
  • Three years of experience in the Transit Industry as a Transit Operator (Bus or Rail), Depot Clerk, or Transit Operations Supervisor.
  • Incident/Accident investigations experience.

About Us

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), known as Metro, is the region’s leading public transportation provider. Serving a 2,254-square-mile jurisdiction, Metro operates six rail lines, 98 stations, 126 bus routes, and MetroAccess, a shared-ride paratransit service. As one of the nation’s busiest transit systems, Metro connects communities, supports economic growth, and provides safe, reliable transportation.

Evaluation Criteria

Consideration will be given to applicants whose resumes demonstrate the required education and experience. Evaluation criteria may include one or more of the following:

• Skills and/or behavioral assessment.
• Personal interview.
• Verification of education and experience (including certifications and licenses).
• Criminal Background Check (a criminal conviction is not an automatic bar to employment).
• Medical examination including a drug and alcohol screening (for safety-sensitive positions).
• Review of a current motor vehicle report.