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Transit Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

TrailblazerTransit.com Trailblazer Transit is accepting applications for the position of Driver Manager for immediate hire. This individual will report to both of Trailblazer's facilities located in ...

TrailblazerTransit.com Trailblazer Transit is accepting applications for the position of Driver Manager for immediate hire. This individual will report to both of Trailblazer's facilities located in ...

TrailblazerTransit.com Trailblazer Transit is accepting applications for the position of Driver Manager for immediate hire. This individual will report to both of Trailblazer's facilities located in ...

Transit Driver

Burnsville, MN · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Transit Bus Driver Safe environment, flexible schedule and fun team! Full time and part-time ... Professional management team that cares * Friendly staff always willing to help out * Flexible ...

Metro Transit Program Manager at Canopy Roots About the Metro Transit Community Response Team Program Canopy Roots is partnering with the Metropolitan Council to operate a mobile crisis response ...

As the Program Manager for the Metro Transit Community Response Team Mobile Crisis Response Program, you will oversee the day-to-day operations, staffing, and quality assurance of this systemwide ...

Metro Transit Program Manager at Canopy Roots About the Metro Transit Community Response Team Program Canopy Roots is partnering with the Metropolitan Council to operate a mobile crisis response ...

MN · On-site

$75K/yr

Job Posting Arrowhead Transit is accepting applications for a full-time Marketing Manager based in Gilbert, Minnesota. The Marketing Manager is responsible for developing and executing marketing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Transit Manager information

See Minnesota salary details

$26.9K

$80K

$134.7K

How much do transit manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for transit manager in Minnesota is $79,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $114,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a transit manager?

Transit Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of public transportation systems, such as buses, subways, or light rail. They coordinate schedules, manage staff, handle budgets, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Transit Managers also work to improve service efficiency, address rider concerns, and implement new policies or technologies to enhance transportation services. Their role is crucial for ensuring that public transit runs smoothly and meets the needs of the community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transit manager?

To thrive as a Transit Manager, you need expertise in transportation operations, planning, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a bachelor's degree in transportation, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with transit scheduling software, fleet management systems, and safety regulations is typically required. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and coordinate with various stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient transit operations, rider safety, and effective service delivery.

What are some common challenges faced by transit managers, and how do teams typically address them?

Transit Managers often face challenges such as coordinating complex schedules, managing budget constraints, and ensuring service reliability amidst unexpected events like vehicle breakdowns or staff shortages. To address these, teams use real-time data systems for tracking and adjusting routes, collaborate closely with maintenance and operations staff, and implement contingency plans to maintain service levels. Regular communication and cross-departmental teamwork are key to quickly resolving issues and maintaining a high standard of public service.

What is the difference between Transit Manager vs Transit Supervisor?

AspectTransit Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire transit operations, manages staff, develops policies, and ensures safety compliance.
CredentialsBachelor's degree in transportation, logistics, or related field; often requires transit-specific certifications.
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with field oversight, managing multiple transit routes and teams.
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, private transportation companies, government agencies.

While both roles focus on transit operations, the Transit Manager has broader responsibilities, strategic oversight, and higher-level decision-making compared to the Transit Supervisor, who typically manages daily operations and staff at a more localized level.

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

The most popular types of Transit jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Transit Manager jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Transit Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Transit Manager job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,995 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Transit Operations Manager

SouthWest Transit

Eden Prairie, MN • On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Salary: $92,000.00 - $138,000.00 Annually
Location : SouthWest Transit-Eden Prairie, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26-11
Department: Operations
Opening Date: 07/14/2026
Job Summary
The Transit Operations Manager manages daily transit operations, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient service. This role leads the transit fleet's lifecycle, oversees dispatch workflows, manages driver contracts, and directs long-term transit planning and network development. The ideal candidate maintains operational efficiency, optimizes fleet uptime, and designs service routes to meet community needs
SouthWest Transit is an award-winning Transit agency serving the SouthWest Twin Cities area through bus, on-demand rideshare, and shuttle services. The agency is committed to serving the needs of their customers through diverse and innovative transit solutions that build community and connect customers from where they are to where they want to go.
Mission:
We provide a premium experience for the southwest Twin Cities through safe, reliable, and cost-effective transit that builds community and connects our customers from where they are to where they want to go.
Vision:
SouthWest Transit is the leading provider of innovative transit solutions that improve livability and enhance economic opportunity in the communities we serve.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Lead, coach, and develop a team of dispatch, customer experience, and transit ops staff to ensure continuous communication and smooth daily operations.
  • Manage daily transit operations ensuring system-wide adherence to commission-approved KPIs.
  • Lead the Transit Planner in designing, analyzing, and optimizing transit routes, timetables, and service schedules.
  • Analyze ridership trends and operational data to improve service efficiency, enhance the rider experience, and identify service gaps and expansion opportunities.
  • Prepare operational reports, service performance metrics, and grant proposals for transit development funding.
  • Partner with internal departments, vendors, and external stakeholders to improve public transit services and implement new technologies.
  • Manage and/or partner on comprehensive new-hire training programs focused on safety, equipment operation, and customer experience.
  • Assist in incident investigations, respond to difficult and sensitive issues, identify and report findings and take necessary corrective action.
  • Manage budgets, staffing resources, and operational priorities while continuously identifying opportunities for process improvement.
  • Manage the accurate collection, verification, and timely submission of monthly and annual reports to the FTA National Transit Database, MnDot, MetCouncil, the SWT Commission and others as needed.
  • Work with cross functional teams to map the customer journey, identifying pain points and opportunities for improvement across all touchpoints.
  • Oversee service design and execution.
  • Develop and implement short- and long-term operational strategies that align with agency goals and community needs. Guide long-range transit planning, service standards, and network development.
  • Monitor and improve on-time performance, productivity, service reliability, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. Utilize data analytics to support operational decision-making and continuous process improvement.
  • Prepare and manage driver ops operating budgets, and monitor expenditures to identify cost-saving opportunities.
  • Collaborate with the Safety and Risk Specialist to minimize incidents and improve safety.
  • Be the liaison between SWT and the driver contractors.
  • Oversee the collection and analysis of customer feedback from various channels including social media, surveys, focus groups, etc..
  • Identify, partner, and execute on opportunities for enhancing customer experience from loyalty programs to appreciation events.
  • Fleet Management
    • Oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of transit vehicles, including capital planning, procurement, deployment, and disposal.
    • Manage fleet performance metrics, fuel consumption, and operational costs using maintenance management software.
    • Ensure all vehicles comply with federal, state, and local safety and regulatory standards.
  • All other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Urban and Regional Planning, Public Administration, or other related field
  • 5-7 years progressively responsible experience in public transportation system with at least 3 years leading teams
  • Proven ability to lead and mentor teams
  • Strong proficiency in scheduling, routing, and mapping software
  • Experience with transit scheduling and run-cutting software, micro-transit operations, transit performance analytics and reporting, geo-spatial analysis, and contract management
  • Embraces SWT values of Purpose, Integrity, Continuous Learning, Innovation, Belonging and Accountable
  • Strong understanding of GTFS and transit data standards, transit funding and grant administration

Preferred: Expertise in Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations
This role is 100% in office.
SouthWest Transit participates in E-Verify. Upon job acceptance, candidate will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation to verify identity and employment eligibility.
Physical Demands & Working Conditions
Work is indoors in a normal office environment. Occasional lifting of thirty pounds or less is required. Requires a high attention to detail or deadlines between 45% and 70% of the time. A typical workday involves about 85% of the time spent sitting and about 50% or more of the time using a keyboard. However, this varies depending on the season. A significant amount of time is spent handling paper and maintaining files.
We offer the following benefits package to full-time employees:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Pension plan: PERA (employer contributions vest after 3 years!)
  • PTO: 21 Days Off Per Year!
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Health Savings Account
  • Life and AD&D Insurance and Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Voluntary 457 and (Roth) retirement plans
  • 11 Paid Holidays
  • 2 Floating Holidays
  • Long-term Disability Income (60% of base rate of pay)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Professional Development Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program

01
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • No, I do not agree

02
What is the minimum salary you would accept for this position?
03
Do you have experience managing or supervising staff?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question