Maintenance Manager

About the role

Via is dedicated to revolutionizing public transportation systems by making them more efficient, reliable, and data-driven. Our platform serves as the technological backbone for modern transit networks, helping transform outdated systems into innovative, high-performing services. As a Maintenance Manager within our Operations team, you will play a vital role in overseeing the maintenance program for all transit equipment and facilities. This position involves both administrative oversight and hands-on maintenance work to ensure that our transit systems operate safely and efficiently. You will lead a team of mechanics and maintenance staff, coordinate repairs, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Your efforts will directly contribute to providing reliable transportation options for communities, supporting our mission to improve access to employment, healthcare, and education.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Oversee the maintenance, servicing, and repair of all transit equipment and facilities, including buses, vehicles, and related infrastructure, ensuring that all work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to schedule.
• Manage the entire employee lifecycle for drivers and maintenance staff, including scheduling shifts, approving paid time off (PTO), processing timesheets for payroll, and conducting performance evaluations to foster a productive work environment.
• Conduct regular inspections of ongoing and completed maintenance work, verifying that repairs meet safety and quality standards, and ensuring that tools and equipment are in good condition and properly maintained.
• Maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities, including work orders, inspections, repairs, and inventory logs, to support operational transparency and compliance.
• Assist in preparing and monitoring the maintenance budget, tracking expenses, and identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising safety or quality.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to mechanics and maintenance personnel, ensuring that repairs are performed correctly and efficiently. Evaluate repair needs, prioritize tasks, and focus on safety and cost-effectiveness in all maintenance activities.
• Diagnose complex mechanical, electrical, and transmission issues on transit vehicles and equipment, performing repairs or coordinating with specialized technicians as needed. Conduct preventative maintenance to extend the lifespan of vehicles and equipment, reducing downtime and repair costs.
• Manage inventory of spare parts, tools, and supplies, including ordering, stocking, and distributing items to ensure readiness for scheduled and emergency repairs.
• Foster strong working relationships with external vendors, parts suppliers, and partners, coordinating repairs and procurement to minimize delays and costs.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, company policies, and ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) standards, maintaining a safe working environment for staff and the public.
• Lead safety training sessions and promote a safety-first culture within the maintenance team, emphasizing the importance of following safety protocols and best practices.
• Collaborate with other departments, including operations and management, to develop maintenance schedules, improve operational processes, and support overall transit system performance.
• Stay current with industry best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes affecting transit maintenance, and implement improvements as appropriate.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on mechanical experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or management role overseeing maintenance teams.
• Vocational training or certification in automotive technology, transit vehicle maintenance, or related fields is highly desirable.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to plan, organize, and execute maintenance activities effectively.
• Excellent communication skills for interacting with team members, vendors, partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing operational needs.
• Proficiency with maintenance management software, Google Suite, and email communication tools.
• Valid driver's license is required.
• High school diploma or GED is required.
• ASE Automobile Service Master Technician Certification for Medium/Heavy Truck or Transit Bus is required.
• Minimum age of 25 years.
• Successful completion of pre-employment drug testing, criminal background check, and motor vehicle records check.

Nice to have

• Experience working specifically within public transportation or fleet maintenance environments.
• Knowledge of safety regulations, OSHA standards, and compliance requirements relevant to transit systems.
• Familiarity with ITAR regulations related to transit equipment and components.
• Experience managing maintenance budgets and procurement processes.
• Ability to implement and improve maintenance procedures and safety protocols.
• Knowledge of emerging transit maintenance technologies and practices.

Skills & tools

• Mechanical troubleshooting and repair skills for transit vehicles and equipment.
• Ability to develop and manage maintenance schedules and records.
• Inventory management skills, including ordering and stocking spare parts and supplies.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Effective communication skills for liaising with staff, vendors, and external partners.
• Use of maintenance management software and Google Suite applications.
• Attention to detail and safety consciousness.
• Problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve complex mechanical issues.

Practical notes

• This position is based on-site in Rochester, MN.
• Salary range is $80,000 - $100,000 annually, depending on experience and skills.
• The role requires physical presence at the maintenance facilities; it is not remote or hybrid.
• Candidates must pass pre-employment drug screening, criminal background checks, and motor vehicle records checks prior to employment.
• The position involves working in a maintenance shop environment, which may include exposure to noise, fumes, and moving equipment.
• Candidates should be prepared to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends if needed for scheduled maintenance or emergencies.
• Via is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.