Southeast Minnesota Regional Transit Manager

Southeast Minnesota Regional Transit Manager

The Regional TMO Manager will lead the day-to-day operations of a newly formed Southeast Minnesota Transit Management Organization (TMO). This dynamic role is central to coordinating and advancing the TMO’s priority initiatives to improve transit through regional coordination and facilitating communication around travel options in the region. The Manager will execute and evolve the TMO work plan while fostering strong relationships with partners, employers, communities, and stakeholders.

This role includes overseeing programs and initiatives that promote transit and other transportation options, building awareness and behavior change among residents and workers, and ensuring financial and organizational sustainability through strategic outreach, partnerships, and funding development.

This position plays a critical role in shaping Southeast Minnesota’s approach to sustainable and equitable mobility. From working with employers to supporting active transportation to maintaining organizational health, the TMO Manager will have a direct hand in improving transportation outcomes for communities across the region.

This position is hybrid, with the expectation that this position provides direct service and  support by maintaining visibility throughout the region and cultivating relationships with the appropriate constituents, users, partners, and providers. Travel to and from sites within the region and to Rochester for regular meetings is required.

This is an opportunity for an independent contractor. Work is estimated to be 20 hours per week for 24 weeks at the established rate of $73.50 for a maximum contract of $35,000.

Program Leadership and Implementation: Design and deliver the services of the TMO, including supporting a regional working group of transit agencies and other transportation operators, developing, and maintaining a regional transportation tool/website, coordinating unified transit advocacy for the region, creating travel options resources and coordinating with employers to help deliver employer programs and facilitate commuter engagement.

Partner and Employer Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for employers, board members, and community partners. Facilitate outreach activities such as presentations, tabling events, and one-on-one support to promote commuting alternatives. Facilitate partnerships with educational institutions to expand staff capacity. This could include internships, class projects, competitions, or similar collaborations.

Organizational and Funding Development: Develop and execute strategies for long-term sustainability of the TMO through diversified funding (grants, sponsorships, memberships), including grant proposals, execution, and reporting. Support and collaborate with the Executive Committee and the Advisory Board and to align on priorities and impact. Hire vendors and support staff as needed to complete the work plan.

Data-Informed Strategy: Collect, analyze, and report data to assess the performance and impact of programs. Use data insights to drive decision-making and guide continuous improvement.

Regional Collaboration: Coordinate with transportation agencies, local governments, and regional employers to align TDM strategies and support broader mobility and access goals.

Education and Experience Required: Post-secondary education and a minimum of five years of relevant experience is required. Prior experience in transit management is preferred. A background check will be performed, and a valid driver's license with a clean record is required

Qualifications and Skills Required:

Strategic Leadership and Program Management

  • Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to balance multiple priorities and initiatives.
  • Experience designing and executing outreach and engagement programs.
  • Ability to develop and lead workplans, manage timelines, and measure outcomes.
  • Experience hiring and managing vendors and staff.

Relationship-Building and Communication

  • Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to tailor messages to a variety of audiences.
  • Ability to engage, support, and collaborate with a diverse set of stakeholders, including employers, government officials, community organizations, and commuters.
  • Comfortable facilitating meetings, presentations, and public-facing events.

Analytical Thinking and Adaptability

  • Proficiency in interpreting data and applying insights to improve programs.
  • Problem-solving mindset with the ability to navigate challenges with flexibility and creativity.
  • Commitment to equity, accessibility, and inclusivity in transportation services and community outreach.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and maintain high standards of accuracy, quality, and timeliness.

Technical and Digital Literacy

  • Proficient with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and Adobe Suite.
  • Comfortable using project management tools and communication platforms.
  • Working knowledge of data sources, software, or systems relevant to transportation or community development is a plus.
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