Director of TRADE
: Job Details :

DEPARTMENT: TRADE Transportation

SALARY: $108,385 - $137,499

LOCATION: West Trenton, NJ

POSITION(S) AVAILABLE: 1

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Director of TRADE is responsible for the strategic oversight, management, and performance of the county's non-emergency transportation program for elderly individuals and residents with disabilities. This role ensures eligible residents have access to essential services, including healthcare, financial support, and community resources. The Director manages all aspects of service operations, including program design, vendor coordination, and personnel supervision. A critical component of this role involves developing and managing the department's budget, overseeing grant funding, and ensuring the financial sustainability of the program. The Director will also lead efforts to expand transportation access through collaborative partnerships and data-driven planning.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversee the daily operations of non-emergency transportation services for eligible elderly and disabled county residents.
• Coordinate non-public, non-emergency transportation under contract with various government and human service agencies.
• Identify community agencies, programs, and residents in need of transportation assistance, ensuring equitable service access across populations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of transportation services and recommend or implement improvements based on data and community feedback.
• Develop, negotiate, and manage contracts with transportation vendors, service providers, and governmental entities.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and productive working relationships with county departments, service partners, funding agencies, and community stakeholders.
• Supervise and support TRADE staff, providing clear direction, professional development opportunities, and consistent performance management.
• Plan and implement routing, scheduling, and service logistics to optimize access and cost-effectiveness.
• Manage program budgets, including grant applications, reporting, and compliance with funding requirements.
• Monitor federal, state, and local regulations affecting transportation for elderly and disabled populations and ensure program compliance.
• Lead efforts to expand services in underserved areas by developing partnerships and advocating for additional funding and support.
• Represent the department at public meetings, community forums, and interagency collaborations.

REQUIREMENTS:

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree in public administration, Transportation Management, Social Services, Urban Planning, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of five (5) years of supervisory experience in the operation or planning of transportation services, including the preparation of routes and schedules for public or non-public use.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven experience managing or administering government-funded transportation or human service programs.
• Demonstrated success in negotiating contracts and managing vendor performance.
• Background in managing budgets and securing and managing grants.
• Familiarity with ADA regulations, Title VI, and other transportation-related compliance requirements.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

• Strong leadership and team management skills, including personnel development and administrative oversight.
• Strategic thinking and decision-making skills with an ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse populations and stakeholders.
• Grant writing and fiscal management skills, including budget preparation and financial reporting.
• Knowledge of regional transportation systems and community-based service coordination.
• Conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities, especially in high-pressure or resource-limited environments.

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH MERCER COUNTY:

Mercer County is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports the health, financial security, and professional development of our employees. Benefits include:

• Access to health and wellness coverage
• Retirement and deferred compensation plans
• Generous paid time off and leave programs
• Ongoing training and tuition assistance
• Employee support services and additional perks

Mercer County EEO/ Civil Service Statement & Residency Requirements:

Mercer County is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, familial status, religion, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, disability, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.

As a Civil Service employer under the State of New Jersey, all candidates must comply with New Jersey Civil Service Commission regulations and guidelines. Mercer County residency is required. Non-residents must establish residency within one (1) year of employment.

Mercer County is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state laws, specifically in accordance with the New Jersey State Policy Prohibiting Discrimination in the Workplace.