Duties
Position definition: The Director of Support Operations oversees and manages the District’s contracted
support services for student transportation and food services. This position serves as the primary liaison
between the District, contracted service providers, families, and the broader community to ensure safe,
efficient, and compliant operations. The Director is responsible for contract administration and performance
oversight and must possess strong communication and relationship-building skills. The role emphasizes
regulatory compliance, community engagement, service quality, and alignment with the District’s mission and
strategic priorities.
Key Duties, Responsibilities, and Knowledge
Contract Oversight & Vendor Management
? Serve as the District’s primary contract administrator for outsourced transportation and food service
providers.
? Monitor vendor compliance with contract terms, service level agreements, ISBE transportation
requirements, USDA nutrition standards, and District expectations.
? Conduct regular performance reviews with vendors; address service issues, corrective actions, and
compliance concerns.
? Coordinate contract renewals, amendments, and rebids in collaboration with Purchasing, Finance, and
legal counsel.
? Review and approve vendor invoices, ridership data, routing reports, and service documentation for
accuracy and compliance.
Transportation Operations, Logistics & Compliance
? Maintain strong working knowledge of ISBE transportation rules, student eligibility, safety
requirements, and reporting expectations.
? Serve as the District’s transportation subject-matter resource when working with contracted providers,
administrators, and families.
? Consult with the vendor to coordinate transportation logistics including routing changes, service
disruptions, weather-related decisions, and emergency response.
? Review and analyze routing efficiency, on-time performance, ride times, and service equity.
? Ensure accurate transportation records and required documentation are maintained and available for
audits or reviews.
Food Service Oversight & Program Coordination
? Oversee contracted food service operations to ensure compliance with federal and state nutrition
requirements.
? Coordinate meal service schedules, program accessibility, and service expectations with vendors and
building administrators.
? Monitor service quality, participation trends, and compliance documentation.
? Ensure the School Food Authority responsibilities are met based on ISBE guidelines and regulations.
Communication & Community Engagement
? Serve as a primary point of contact for parents and guardians regarding transportation and food
service concerns.
? Build and maintain positive relationships with parents, school administrators, community members,
and service providers.
? Address concerns professionally, empathetically, and consistently to promote trust and transparency.
Financial & Performance Management
? Analyze service costs, contract metrics, and operational data to ensure fiscal responsibility and best
value.
? Support budget development and long-term planning for contracted support services.
? Identify cost-saving opportunities, efficiencies, and service improvements while maintaining safety
and quality.
? Prepare reports and recommendations for District leadership and the Board of Education.
Policies, Planning & Continuous Improvement
? Develop, review, and recommend administrative procedures related to support operations.
? Monitor regulatory and industry changes related to transportation and food services and recommend
operational updates.
? Support long-term planning for service delivery, contract structure, and operational improvements.
Promote a culture of accountability, customer service, and continuous improvement across support
operations.
Key Skills, Talent, and Abilities
Operational Expertise
? Ability to interpret transportation and food service regulations and apply them effectively within
contracted service models.
? Ability to comprehend and manage multi-million dollar contract.
Communication & Community Relations
? Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, particularly when working directly with parents
and guardians.
? Ability to communicate complex operational information clearly, calmly, and empathetically.
? Demonstrated ability to build trust and maintain positive relationships with families and community
stakeholders.
Leadership & Collaboration
? Ability to lead through influence and collaboration rather than direct supervision.
? Strong relationship-building skills with vendors, administrators, principals, and cross-functional
teams.
? Effective problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
? Ability to manage and lead the district’s transportation and food service support staff.
Analytical, Organizational & Technical
? Strong analytical skills to evaluate data, service performance, and contract compliance.
? Excellent organizational skills to manage contracts, compliance records, and service documentation.
? Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment.
Strategic Alignment & Results
? Ability to align support operations with the District’s Strategic Plan, fiscal priorities, and service
expectations.
? Demonstrates initiative, sound judgment, accountability, and attention to detail.
? Commitment to high-quality service delivery and continuous improvement.
Qualifications
Education and Certifications
? Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field required.
? Current food service handler certification or ability to obtain within six months.
Knowledge and Experience
? Strong understanding of continuous improvement processes.
? Familiarity with Federal & Illinois Transportation Laws.
? Familiarity with the Illinois Transportation Claim.
? Experience with data collection, analysis, and reporting.
? Strong knowledge of Google Suite of office products.
? Experience with Skyward Qmlativ preferred
How to Apply
Application Procedure:
Apply online.
Please Submit Supporting documents online:
Supporting documents:
- Resume transcripts (copies acceptable)
- Three current letters of recommendation
- Proof of Illinois Professional Educator License with General Administrative Endorsement
Selection Procedure:
Applications will be reviewed by district administrators