Join Our Growing Team – Assistant Operation Manager for School Bus & Charter Services

Are you an experienced transport operations staff looking for an exciting opportunity? Do you have a passion for ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely transportation of students and passengers? We are a fast-growing transport company based in Derrimut, Melbourne’s West, providing school bus services, charter services, tourist transport, and metro rail replacement services. As we continue to expand, we are looking for an Operation Manager to lead our dynamic team.

About the Role

As our Assistant Operation Manager, you will oversee the daily management of school bus routes, charter services, and fleet operations. You’ll be responsible for optimizing driver schedules, route planning, vehicle maintenance, and ensuring our high safety and service standards. The role also involves overseeing fleet coordination, managing a workshop team, and driving business growth through new opportunities.

You’ll work closely with schools, parents, and other clients to ensure smooth operations while maintaining high service levels across all areas.

Key Responsibilities

1. School Routes

• Develop and maintain safe and efficient school bus routes, ensuring compliance with all safety regulations.
• Act as the liaison between schools, parents, and bus drivers, providing timely updates on schedules, delays, and any changes to routes.
• Supervise bus drivers, ensuring adherence to company policies and safety standards.
• Complete and submit reports on transportation operations, incidents, and performance.

2. Logistics & Fleet Coordination

• Oversee scheduling, dispatch, and route planning to ensure optimal fleet utilization and on-time service delivery.
• Allocate buses for charter requests and other services, ensuring correct buses are assigned for customer needs.
• Adjust schedules in response to operational challenges such as weather, traffic, or vehicle availability.

3. Maintenance & Fleet Management

• Ensure that the fleet is well-maintained, compliant with safety regulations, and meets company standards.
• Work closely with the maintenance team to implement regular inspections and servicing, reducing downtime and repair costs.
• Track vehicle performance and ensure the fleet is operating at optimal efficiency.

4. Workshop Management

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the workshop, managing repairs, procurement of parts, and technician support.
• Ensure timely vehicle repairs and preventative maintenance to minimize fleet downtime.
• Maintain inventory control for parts and materials, ensuring cost-effective workshop operations.

5. Driver & Cleaner Management

• Supervise and ensure drivers and cleaners maintain high cleanliness standards for vehicles and facilities.
• Monitor driver performance and safety, providing coaching as needed.
• Assist with training new hires on operational procedures, safety protocols, and customer service standards.

6. Team Leadership & Performance Management

• Lead and support logistics, drivers, maintenance, and workshop teams to ensure high performance and accountability.
• Act as a liaison between management and staff, facilitating effective communication and addressing concerns.
• Implement training programs to promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Regularly evaluate team performance, providing feedback and career development support.

7. Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with transport and safety regulations including vehicle inspections, driver qualifications, and insurance requirements.
• Monitor and report on key metrics like fleet utilization, revenue, and maintenance costs to senior management.
• Enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain operational efficiency.

8. Budget & Cost Control

• Manage the operational budget to optimize fleet maintenance, fuel, repairs, and staffing costs.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining service quality and customer satisfaction.

9. Driving & Hands-on Support

• Drive a school bus at least two days per week, gaining firsthand insight into operational challenges.
• Step in as a backup driver when necessary to ensure service continuity.
• Recommend operational improvements based on real-world experiences.

Job Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of experience in transport, logistics, or school bus operations management.
• Valid Australian MR/HR driver’s license with experience driving buses.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Experience with fleet maintenance, scheduling, and logistics management.
• Knowledge of Australian transport regulations and safety compliance.
• Ability to reduce operational costs while ensuring high service standards.
• Willingness to drive a school bus at least two days per week.

Salary & Benefits

• $80,000 per year
• Performance-based bonuses (based on cost savings, driver management, and business growth)

Location

Derrimut, Melbourne (Western Suburbs)

How to Apply

If you're ready to take the next step in your career with a fast-growing, dynamic company, we want to hear from you!

Send your resume and cover letter to [email protected]

Join us today and be part of shaping the future of school bus and charter transport in Melbourne!