Manager, Vehicle Engineering - Central Ohio Transit Authority

Join the organization that received Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award from the American Public Transit Association in 2018 & 2020!

Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is central Ohio's public transportation provider, providing nearly 19 million passenger trips per year servicing Franklin County and parts of Delaware, Fairfield, Licking, and Union counties. Guided by our 2019-2024 Strategic Plan, our vision is to move every life forward. Our mission is to provide solutions that connect people to prosperity through innovation, dedication and teamwork.

Salary: $104,940 - $130,643

Location: 1600 McKinley Ave, Columbus, OH

Benefits: COTA offers competitive benefits including: supplemental insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, employee discounts, employee bus pass; wellness initiatives, on-site cooking classes & chair massages, on-site Health Coaches & Dietitians, and retirement benefits through OPERS & Ohio Deferred Compensation.

Position Summary:

The OPS Manager of Engineering has full technical responsibility for the implementation, organization, execution and coordination of the acquisition, engineering support and program management of new bus (revenue & mobility) and non-revenue fleets. This position is responsible for undertaking diverse engineering management assignments that are considered to be of "high" complexity in size and scope. As Manager of Engineering involved in design, manufacture, and engineering support of vehicles and vehicle systems including bus and automotive, this position is responsible for defining and coordinating in-house and third party tasks of "high" complexity.

Performs other duties in alignment with the 2019 – 2024 COTA Strategic Plan and in support of the organization's vision to Move Every Life Forward.

This Position is Responsible For:

• Provide Engineering expertise and leadership to COTA's Sustainability Plan and Fleet Transition Plan to facilitate transition to a zero-emission fleet.
• Assists with vehicle maintenance/operations activities and personnel through the assignment of tasks, setting priorities, establishing target dates, and regularly interacting with staff to track progress and provide guidance.
• Plans, organizes, and implements designs, specifications and standards for organization vehicles including conduct of studies, surveys and cost estimates for vehicle modifications and overhauls.
• Provides technical support and direction for new vehicle and vehicle system development in assurance that contractor provides reliable vehicles meeting all specifications.
• Analyzes major and minor system failure defects for trends and possible corrective action; investigates defect trends and develops course of corrective action; reviews/updates specifications due to changing requirements to improve maintenance reliability and costs;
• Oversees analyses and reporting processes of operational performance and plans for compliance, efficiency, and improved quality service level; monitors and reports on: historical performance of customer service levels in vehicle maintenance, bus operations, mobility management, on-time performance, accidents, attendance, third party monitoring, operational efficiencies, costs, etc.; and assists in the review and development of improved policies and procedures as required;
• Directs the preparation of estimates, drawings, and specifications for vehicle procurements, overhauls, and related vehicle equipment. Oversees the execution of in-house and third-party projects for both consultants and vehicle procurements. Institutes standards and procedures to ensure that all work is completed in accordance with contract documents and design specifications;
• Oversees technical studies to enhance engineering design, vehicle performance, and parts longevity ensuring that organization's vehicles are in accordance with both federal and state safety regulations and industry standards;
• Develops and manages section budget. Establishes and tracks individual employee goals, Administers performance evaluations.
• Performs project management of contracts involving design, text, supply, and installation of systems on vehicles.
• May be required to be available through a mobile device via voice and/or data during and outside of normal working hours, at the manager's discretion, and must respond within a reasonable timeframe; and
• Regular, predictable and punctual attendance required.
• Directs and provides leadership for their staff. Hires, trains, develop, and appraise staff effectively. Ensures the organization meets its EEO responsibilities by assisting in identifying problem areas, participating in local minority organizations, participating in review of complaints alleging discrimination, and supporting career counseling for employees. Takes corrective action as necessary, on a timely basis, and in accordance with policy; and
• Performs other duties as assigned.

At Minimum You'll Need:

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (or related technical field) and a combination of a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in vehicle engineering and management required. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
• Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) desired.
• ASE certification desired.
• CDL Optional

COTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion are of core importance and essential to the success of the organization. All employment decisions are based on job needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. COTA believes that diverse and inclusive organizations gain the benefits in creating a stronger and more effective workforce resulting in services that better meet the needs of consumers and in result Move Every Life Forward.