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Transit Operations Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Transit Practice Leader

San Jose, CA · On-site

$165K - $280K/yr

Excellent knowledge of transit operations and best practices * Good communicator, particularly with ... Must have a thorough understanding of project accounting and demonstrated ability to manage the ...

Transit Practice Leader

San Jose, CA · On-site

$165K - $280K/yr

Excellent knowledge of transit operations and best practices * Good communicator, particularly with ... Must have a thorough understanding of project accounting and demonstrated ability to manage the ...

The General Manager works in collaboration with operations, corporate support departments, and ... Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines

General Manager

Sonora, CA · On-site

$125K/yr

Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines ... Experience managing union staff preferred * CDL Class B preferred What's in it for you: * Health ...

General Manager

Sonora, CA · On-site

$125K/yr

Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines ... Experience managing union staff preferred * CDL Class B preferred What's in it for you: * Health ...

General Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$135K/yr

The General Manager works in collaboration with operations, corporate support departments, and ... Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines

General Manager

Fresno, CA · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

The General Manager works in collaboration with operations, corporate support departments, and ... Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines

Operations Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Our platform serves as the technology backbone for modern transit networks, transforming antiquated ... As a Operations Manager on Via's Operations team, you are the force that keeps our services running ...

Operations Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Our platform serves as the technology backbone for modern transit networks, transforming antiquated ... As a Operations Manager on Via's Operations team, you are the force that keeps our services running ...

General Manager

La Verne, CA · On-site

$99K - $149K/yr

Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines ... Prior contract and or project management experience preferred * CDL preferred What's in it for you:

General Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$135K/yr

The General Manager works in collaboration with operations, corporate support departments, and ... Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines

General Manager

La Verne, CA · On-site

$99K - $149K/yr

Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines ... Prior contract and or project management experience preferred * CDL preferred What's in it for you:

Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines ... Prior contract and or project management experience preferred * CDL preferred What's in it for you:

General Manager

La Verne, CA · On-site

$99K - $149K/yr

Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines ... Prior contract and or project management experience preferred * CDL preferred What's in it for you:

Operations Manager

Millbrae, CA · On-site +1

$93K - $187K/yr

Developing local operational procedures and policies that ensure quality within the organization ... Delegation of responsibilities to ensure all shipments in transit through the station are properly ...

Showing results 41-60

Transit Operations Manager information

What is a transit operations manager?

Transit Operations Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of public transportation systems such as buses, subways, or light rail. They manage schedules, coordinate staff, ensure safety protocols are followed, and address any service disruptions or emergencies. Their role is crucial for ensuring that transit services run efficiently, reliably, and safely to meet the needs of the public. Additionally, they may be involved in budgeting, compliance with regulations, and implementing service improvements.

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

To thrive as a Transit Operations Manager, you need expertise in transportation planning, regulatory compliance, and staff management, typically supported by a degree in business, transportation management, or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, fleet management systems, and relevant safety certifications is highly valued. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you effectively coordinate teams and respond to service disruptions. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable transit operations that meet both organizational goals and community needs.

What are some common challenges faced by transit operations managers in ensuring reliable service?

Transit Operations Managers often face challenges such as managing unexpected delays, coordinating staff schedules, and responding to equipment or infrastructure issues. Balancing operational efficiency with passenger safety and satisfaction requires quick decision-making and effective communication with drivers, dispatchers, and maintenance teams. Additionally, adapting to changing ridership patterns and integrating new technologies can present ongoing hurdles, but also offer opportunities for process improvement and career growth.

What is the difference between Transit Operations Manager vs Transit Supervisor?

AspectTransit Operations ManagerTransit Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire transit system operations, manages staff, develops policies, and ensures safety and efficiency.Supervises daily bus or train operations, manages drivers, and handles on-the-ground issues.
CredentialsBachelor's degree in transportation, logistics, or related field; relevant certifications often preferred.High school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require transit-specific training or certifications.
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with field visits; interacts with management, staff, and external agencies.Primarily on-site, overseeing daily operations and personnel.
ScopeStrategic and managerial focus on overall transit system performance.Operational focus on daily transit service delivery.

The Transit Operations Manager typically holds a broader, strategic role overseeing entire transit systems, while the Transit Supervisor focuses on daily operational management. Both roles require knowledge of transit operations, but the manager's responsibilities are more comprehensive and strategic.

What cities in California are hiring for Transit Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Transit Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Transit Operations Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Transit Practice Leader

San Jose, CA • On-site

Kimley-Horn
Specialized Design Services • 5 - 10K employees

$165K - $280K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
Kimley-Horn has an opportunity for a motivated Transit Practice Leader to expand our Transit practice in San Jose, California (CA)!
Responsibilities
Our Practice Builders have an entrepreneurial spirit, creating a vision for their practice while facilitating the growth of our Transit Practice in the Bay Area. The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business backed by the strength of a national one-profit center firm with 8,000+ staff. With success, this individual will enjoy the rewards of a competitive salary, an impressive incentive-based bonus program, industry-leading retirement, and the potential to advance to ownership.
Qualifications
  • A bachelor's or master's degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent work experience and professional registration (P.E.) in California preferred
  • 15+ years of diversified experience in growing and leading a Transit practice in the Bay Area
  • Business development and marketing experience, including writing proposals, scopes of work, and budgets for projected work
  • Strong desire and ability to be engaged with clients solving project problems, and working with the team to deliver
  • Excellent knowledge of transit operations and best practices
  • Good communicator, particularly with key internal niche partners such as building structures, drainage, roadway, and MEP partners
  • Experience with specifications and detailed cost estimates
  • Must have a thorough understanding of project accounting and demonstrated ability to manage the schedule and budget for multiple projects at the same time
  • Has experience in marketing and supervision of the technical work of others
  • We are looking for high-energy, creative, flexible, patient self-starters who are willing to work at a dynamic pace. Candidates must share a commitment to our company's Vision, Mission, and Shared Values.
  • Strong technical foundation in areas of Transit corridor design experience, track/guideway design, roadway design, Station design, including park-and-ride facilities

Base Salary Range:
  • $165,000-$280,000
  • 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.

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Kimley-Horn logo

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