Transit Program Lead

Are you passionate about keeping communities connected and ensuring accessible transit for all? 

We are looking for a dedicated and driven individual to join our team as the Transit Program Lead in one of Alberta's most vibrant and growing communities! In this dynamic role, you'll be at the forefront of planning and delivering specialized transit services, with a focus on community connectivity. Reporting to the Director, Social Development, your expertise will shape the future of Cochrane’s public transit services, including policy development, forecasting, budgeting, planning, and supporting operations. You'll consider community demographics, accessibility, trends, and best practices in multimodal transportation to ensure Cochrane stays well-connected.

After five years of operation, COLT, our local transit service, has proven its value to residents, businesses and the broader community.  In order to respond to the needs of our community, an updated transit plan has been finalized and introduces a hybrid transit model with three fixed routes and on-request service, addressing service reliability, efficiency, and growth.  We have unveiled our new COLT Transit Plan with the slogan Transit that Moves for You.  You will use this plan as a blueprint to implement operating enhancements in 2025, tackling critical challenges, seizing emerging opportunities, and establishing the groundwork for future transit network improvements!  

What You'll Be Doing:  
As the Transit Program Lead, you will provide day-to-day oversight of the local transit system, coordinating with the transit operating company to ensure transit services run smoothly and when operational issues emerge, they are addressed promptly and communicated with the community on a timely basis. You will be responsible for monitoring, evaluating, forecasting, and regular service reviews to adapt network design and scheduling, ensuring our services remain top-notch. You will represent Cochrane at events, conferences, and intermunicipal groups, building strong relationships and networks within the organization, region and industry. 

The position is ideal for someone who thrives on taking action and getting things done, primarily focusing on operational tasks and day-to-day responsibilities. You will assess the community impact of eligibility-based programs like Connecting Cochrane, manage service provision contracts, and plan community transit initiatives. You will be instrumental in actioning and driving the implementation of our finalized transit plan. Additionally, you will provide expertise on public transit for long-range planning documents and support the implementation of strategic plans aligned with Cochrane's goals. Your analytical and forecasting abilities will help prepare and manage public transit business plans and budgets. Improving customer service, addressing complex issues, maximizing technology solutions for process automation, and exploring grant opportunities to enhance community connectivity will be key aspects of this role.

Why You'll Love This Role: This is more than a job—it’s a chance to be a driving force behind a growing area of our organization, with real opportunities to shape policy, foster innovation, and make a lasting difference in the lives of Cochrane residents. You'll have opportunities to develop your skills in a dynamic and supportive work environment. Our collaborative team is dedicated to excellence, and you'll engage in exciting projects that challenge and expand your knowledge. With access to continuous learning and professional development, you'll have the chance to thrive in your career.

What We're Looking For:
• Bachelor’s degree in planning, business administration, management, or a combination of equivalent skills and experience. Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA), Transit Planning Certificate preferred. Master’s degree in planning is considered an asset. 
• Proven experience in public transit planning, operations, and policy development.
• Strong knowledge of community demographics, accessibility needs, and trends in multimodal transportation.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong analytical and forecasting abilities.
• Proficiency in budget preparation and financial management.
• Ability to manage contracts and coordinate with contractors and vendors.
• Experience with strategic planning and implementation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to handle complex customer service issues.
• Familiarity with technology solutions for process automation and improvement.
• Knowledge of grant application processes and funding opportunities.

Cochrane is committed to providing a healthy and safe work environment for all employees. As part of our team, you'll take reasonable care to protect your health and safety and that of others, follow all relevant health and safety legislation, and participate in orientations and training.

Ready to be a driving force in keeping Cochrane connected?  To apply, submit both your resume and a cover letter (we want to know why you want to work with us) that details how your experience aligns with the qualifications and skills we’re seeking. You’ll also be asked to complete an online suitability survey.

Join our team and make a difference in the future of Cochrane’s public transit services!

Applications are open until suitable candidate is chosen at  www.cochrane.ca/jobs 

$52.98/hour +health benefits and pension!