Operations Director, Parking & Transportation Services

Description

The Operations Director in Parking and Transportation Services supports the Executive Director in overseeing daily operations, including parking, transit, maintenance, enforcement, and special events. The Operations Director leads strategic initiatives, manages budgets and personnel, ensures regulatory compliance, and fosters stakeholder engagement. In the absence of the Executive Director, this position assumes full leadership and operational responsibility for the department.

This role offers a unique chance to significantly impact the daily experiences of students, faculty, staff, and visitors across campus. It combines strategic planning with hands-on operational leadership in a dynamic environment. The position requires innovative thinking to balance efficiency, sustainability, and customer service within the broader mission of higher education. With a focus on mobility, technology integration, and space optimization, it allows professionals to lead initiatives that enhance campus accessibility and service delivery. This role is ideal for someone looking to grow as a leader while contributing to a vital area of university operations.

Ideal candidates excel at being responsive to customer needs and anticipating stakeholder requirements. They provide thoughtful solutions, present options rather than obstacles, and take ownership of challenges through completion. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures high stakeholder satisfaction, as they thoroughly review their work while balancing competing priorities and meeting deadlines. Their greatest strength is empathy toward evolving customer needs. They actively listen to understand underlying concerns, adapt seamlessly to changing requirements, and maintain composure during urgent situations.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership for daily parking and transportation operations, policy development, and financial oversight.

Supervise and coordinate staffing needs, performance management, and customer service initiatives.

Manage key departmental projects, including technology upgrades, sustainability initiatives, and infrastructure improvements.

Engage with campus departments and external partners to align transportation strategies with university goals.

Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and institutional policies and represent the department in campus and community forums.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related field.

5–7 years of progressive experience in parking, transportation, or facilities management, including 3–4 years of supervisory responsibility.

Proficiency in parking management systems, enforcement operations, and transit coordination.

Demonstrated success in managing personnel, developing policy, and executing operational strategy.

Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in Business Administration, Transportation Planning, Public Administration, or related field.

7–10 years of experience in higher education or large institutional environments.

Experience with automated parking systems, LPR technology, TDM programs, and capital construction projects.

Certifications such as PTMP or involvement with industry organizations (e.g., IPMI).

Demonstrated leadership in sustainability or innovation-focused transportation initiatives.

Why UT?

UT is experiencing unprecedented growth across the University. Join a leading public research university dedicated to innovation, operational excellence, and service. The University of Tennessee offers an exceptional work environment, and the opportunity to shape the future of campus mobility.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range $120,000 – 140,000/year DOEQ

Generous leave, accruing up to 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually, plus 14 paid holidays and administrative closing days.

Education benefits for employees and their dependents at any UT System campus.

Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

Find more information on benefits.

To Apply

Formal applications should be submitted via our application portal and include a cover letter, a current resume and contact information for three (3) professional references. To be assured of full consideration, please submit your application and requested materials on or before Sunday, June 22nd, 2025. Confidential inquiries may be directed to Brooke Swart, Senior Executive Recruiter at .