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Transit Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Transit

Los Angeles, CA

$150K - $260K/yr

Our transit practice is engaged in the planning, design, and implementation of transit services and ... The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Transit

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150K - $260K/yr

Our transit practice is engaged in the planning, design, and implementation of transit services and ... The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Transit

Los Angeles, CA

$150K - $260K/yr

Our transit practice is engaged in the planning, design, and implementation of transit services and ... The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Transit

Los Angeles, CA

$150K - $260K/yr

Our transit practice is engaged in the planning, design, and implementation of transit services and ... The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their ...

Kimley-Horn

Transit Practice Leader

San Jose, CA

$165K - $280K/yr

The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their ... Excellent knowledge of transit operations and best practices * Good communicator, particularly with ...

Kimley-Horn

Transit Practice Leader

San Jose, CA · On-site

$165K - $280K/yr

The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their ... Excellent knowledge of transit operations and best practices * Good communicator, particularly with ...

Kimley-Horn

Transit Practice Leader

San Jose, CA

$165K - $280K/yr

The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their ... Excellent knowledge of transit operations and best practices * Good communicator, particularly with ...

Kimley-Horn

Transit Practice Leader

San Jose, CA

$165K - $280K/yr

The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their ... Excellent knowledge of transit operations and best practices * Good communicator, particularly with ...

AtkinsRéalis

Sr Transit Analyst

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$104K - $150K/yr

Overview AtkinsRéalis is seeking a Senior Transit Analyst to join our team in San Franscisco, CA ... Note to staffing and direct hire agencies: In the event a recruiter or agency who is not on our ...

SNC-Lavalin

Sr Transit Analyst

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$104K - $150K/yr

Overview AtkinsRealis is seeking a Senior Transit Analyst to join our team in San Franscisco, CA ... Note to staffing and direct hire agencies: In the event a recruiter or agency who is not on our ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsTransit JobsTransit Director JobsTransit Director Jobs in California

Transit Director information

See California salary details

$23K

$90.8K

$141.5K

How much do transit director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for transit director in California is $90,773.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,181.00 and $108,694.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a transit director do?

A Transit Director oversees the operations, planning, and administration of a public transportation system. Their responsibilities include managing staff, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, developing budgets, and implementing policies to improve service efficiency and reliability. They also coordinate with government agencies, address public concerns, and plan for future transit needs within the community. The Transit Director plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and effective delivery of transit services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transit director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Transit Director, you need expertise in public transportation management, budgeting, strategic planning, and a relevant degree such as in transportation, urban planning, or public administration. Familiarity with transit operations software, scheduling systems, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required, along with certifications like Transit Manager Certification. Outstanding leadership, stakeholder communication, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for driving organizational goals and managing complex teams. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and customer-focused transit operations that meet community needs and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by a transit director, and how can they be addressed effectively?

Transit Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing budget constraints with service demands, managing diverse teams, and responding to shifting community transportation needs. Effective communication with stakeholders, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making are essential to address these issues. Staying informed about regulatory changes and fostering partnerships with local governments can also help mitigate operational difficulties and ensure smooth transit operations.

What is the difference between Transit Director vs Transit Manager?

AspectTransit DirectorTransit Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire transit agency operations, strategic planning, policy developmentManages daily transit operations, supervises staff, ensures service delivery
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in transportation, public administration, or related field; extensive experienceBachelor's in transportation, logistics, or related; relevant experience required
Work EnvironmentExecutive offices, strategic meetings, high-level planningTransit facilities, buses, stations, operational sites
Industry UsageUsed in larger transit agencies and government bodiesCommon in mid-sized agencies and departments

The main difference between a Transit Director and a Transit Manager lies in scope and responsibilities. The Transit Director oversees the entire transit system, focusing on strategic planning and policy, while the Transit Manager handles daily operations and staff supervision. Both roles require relevant credentials and experience, but the Director's role is more executive and broad in scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Transit jobs in California?

The most popular types of Transit jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Transit Director jobs in California?

For Transit Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Transit Director jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Transit Director jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Transit Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Transit Director job openings:

Transit Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transit Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,773 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Practice Builder - Transit

Kimley-Horn

Los Angeles, CA

$150K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn has an opportunity for a motivated Practice Builder to expand our Transit practice in Los Angeles, California (CA)! 

Responsibilities
  • Has an entrepreneurial spirit, creating a vision for their Transit practice while facilitating the growth of our regional US-based transit practice.
  • Our transit practice is engaged in the planning, design, and implementation of transit services and facilities throughout the country. 
  • Our specific focus is within local transit providers to envision, study, plan, design, engineer, manage, and implement new services, service expansions, and service/technology enhancements.
  • Beyond serving our existing clients, has the ability to pursue own passions, leads, and clients.
  • Leadership responsibilities include:
    • Operating with integrity and sound business principles
    • Providing vision, business planning and strategy
    • Establishing goals
    • Building and maintaining positive client relationships
    • Having open communication with your partners and team
    • Growing and leading a Transit practice
  • Our Practice Builders manage their projects profitably, transition work to qualified staff, grow and mentor staff, and act as a positive leader and mentor.
  • The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business.
  • With success, this individual will enjoy the rewards of an impressive bonus program with the potential to advance to ownership.
Qualifications
  • 15+ years of years of Transit experience in growing and leading a Transit practice
  • Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) license 
  • Track record of successfully winning and delivering work in the local area
  • Established relationships with local DOT, local agencies, and/or local municipalities
  • Demonstrated ability to manage transportation projects profitably through agency specifications
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and technical skills
  • Strong desire and ability to be engaged with clients solving project problems
  • Ability to effectively communicate positively at all levels of the organization
  • Ability to manage and mentor staff and direct resources effectively in a positive manner
  • Demonstrated ability to manage projects profitably

Base Salary Range

  • $150,000 - $260,000
  • Eligible for performance-based bonus compensation
Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

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Workplace

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967

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