Rural Transit Project Manager
Date Posted: Mar 4, 2026
Requisition ID: 473871
Location:
Indianapolis, IN, US, 46204
Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Indiana Department of Transportation:
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides a dynamic workplace that serves Indiana citizens, improves our state's quality of life, and enhances its economic opportunity. INDOT has a number of innovative programs and projects, including Public-Private Partnerships, Green Initiatives, and cutting-edge uses of materials and assets. As part of the State of Indiana, INDOT offers a competitive total compensation package, as well as outstanding work/life balance. Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your career, INDOT has exciting and challenging opportunities for you.
Role Overview:
The Rural Transit Project Manager plays a critical role in supporting INDOT's Office of Transit by overseeing the administration and compliance of state and federal rural transit programs. This position works closely with the Rural Transit Program Manager to manage federal and state transit funding, monitor program compliance, and provide technical assistance to rural transit providers across Indiana. The role has a direct impact on ensuring continued funding eligibility, regulatory compliance, and the reliable delivery of public transportation services in rural communities.
Key responsibilities include administering federal and state transit grants, managing transit asset inventories and the transit asset management plan, collecting and verifying transit system data, preparing required federal reports, conducting compliance reviews and site visits, and serving as a technical resource for transit providers. This position also plays a vital role in supporting FTA oversight activities and ensuring INDOT meets all certification and reporting requirements.
Top skills sought in an ideal candidate include:
Strong knowledge of federal and state transit programs, compliance requirements, and grant administration.
Analytical and data management skills, including the ability to collect, review, and verify transit system data for reporting and funding distribution.
Effective communication and technical assistance skills to support and guide rural transit providers.
This position requires a high level of attention to detail, independent judgment, and the ability to manage multiple program requirements simultaneously.
The Rural Transit Project Manager is essential to maintaining program integrity, mitigating compliance risk, and ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of public transit services statewide.
Location:
This position is located in INDOT's Central Office, Indianapolis.
Salary Statement:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $53,222.00 but may be commensurate with education or work experience.
A Day in the Life:
The essential elements of the job duties:
Assist the Program Manager with overall operation of Section 5311 and PMTF programs.
Provide technical assistance to grantees.
Respond to internal and external information requests.
Maintain quarterly and annual status reports.
Review all aspects of the state and federal grant programs and procurement activities.
Maintain and improve public transportation information databases.
Research federal and state regulations that affect transit programs.
Assist transit operators with compliance reviews.
Review audit information and prepares project close-out documentation.
The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.
What You'll Need for Success:
Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:
Extensive knowledge of state and federal transit grant programs.
Working knowledge of State and Federal public transit operations.
Working knowledge of policy making and the legislative process at the federal, state & local level.
Working knowledge of local planning procedures.
Advanced skill in the use of computers and software to include Microsoft Office suite.
Ability to work with minimal supervision.
Ability to research and solve problems utilizing available resources.
Ability to write and speak effectively and maintain cooperative relationships with local government.
A degree is not required. However, at least 4+ years of experience Economics, Finance, Legislation, Educational/Employment training programs, or related experience applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role may be considered.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
Education Reimbursement Program
Group life insurance
Referral Bonus program
Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Free Parking for most positions
Free LinkedIn Learning access
Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
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