AM Bus Company logo

Assistant Operations Manager - Earn Up To $85k Annually - Chicago IL

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Exact $85,000.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
401(k)
Career growth opportunities
Paid holidays
Employee Discounts

Job Description

AM Bus Company is a leading transportation service provider specializing in school transportation and other transit services in the Chicago, IL area. Known for its commitment to safety, reliability, and efficient service, the company manages over 100 routes daily, servicing a large number of students and schools across the region. AM Bus Company prides itself on delivering outstanding customer service, maintaining rigorous compliance with transportation regulations, and fostering a supportive workplace culture. The company is dedicated to the professional development of its employees, offering clear career advancement pathways, competitive salaries, and comprehensive benefits packages.

The role of Assistant Operations Manager at AM Bus Company is a critical leadership position designed to support and enhance the daily operations of a large-scale transportation service. The Assistant Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day activities involving more than 200 employees and over 100 active routes. This position plays a pivotal role in ensuring operational efficiency, safety compliance, and superior customer communication, all while maintaining a positive working environment for drivers and staff.

This full-time position offers a competitive salary range between $75,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience, with opportunities for salary growth aligned with expanded responsibilities. Additional benefits include paid time off, health insurance, and 401(k) plans available after a waiting period, reinforcing AM Bus Company's commitment to the well-being and financial security of its employees. The work schedule is primarily based on an early shift from 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM or until operations are stabilized, reflecting the company’s commitment to timely and consistent service delivery.

As an Assistant Operations Manager, you will assist in managing complex operational dynamics such as monitoring route performance, ensuring buses are inspected and maintained according to safety protocols, and aiding dispatch teams in solving problems related to delays, breakdowns, and call-offs. Your leadership will extend to managing driver attendance, maintaining records and certifications, and administering disciplinary measures when necessary to uphold the company’s standards. Effective communication with Chicago Public Schools (CPS), school administrators, and parents will be essential in resolving issues promptly and transparently.

The position also requires proficiency in data management, including tracking daily operational metrics like on-time performance and absenteeism trends. Collaborating on route planning and efficiency optimization will be key to continuously improving service quality and operational performance. The Assistant Operations Manager role is designed for an individual with strong leadership capabilities, excellent communication skills, organization, and the ability to thrive under pressure. It presents a unique opportunity to grow into the role of Operations Manager within 12 to 24 months based on performance, making it an ideal career development step for professionals seeking advancement in transportation management.

Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • experience in transportation or logistics preferred
  • ability to work early morning shifts
  • strong communication skills
  • leadership abilities
  • organized and reliable
  • familiarity with transportation safety regulations
  • ability to handle stressful situations
  • proficiency with technology and routing software preferred

Job Qualifications

  • Strong leadership mindset and desire to grow into a management role
  • excellent communication and customer service skills
  • organized, reliable, and able to handle fast-paced, high-pressure situations
  • 2-5 years of experience in transportation, logistics, operations, dispatch, or related field preferred
  • prior experience in school transportation, paratransit, or logistics preferred
  • experience supervising employees preferred
  • comfortable with technology including dispatch systems, routing software, GPS
  • basic understanding of DOT, IDOT, or CPS transportation compliance preferred

Job Duties

  • Assist with managing day-to-day operations for 200+ employees and 100+ routes
  • monitor route performance, on-time arrivals, and schedule adjustments
  • support dispatch with problem-solving during delays, breakdowns, and call-offs
  • ensure bus inspections, safety protocols, and compliance tasks are completed
  • help oversee drivers, attendance, tardies, call-offs, and discipline
  • maintain up-to-date driver files, certifications, and training documentation
  • assist with communication to CPS, school administrators, and parents when issues arise
  • document issues and provide real-time updates to schools and management
  • track daily operations metrics such as on-time percentages, absentee trends, and route performance
  • assist with route planning, efficiency adjustments, and optimization

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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