Job Description

IMPORTANT EMPLOYMENT NOTICE: Although this position may provide services in support of WVSDT programs, employment for this position is through Mountain State Educational Services Cooperative (MSESC). This is not a WVSDT position, and the individual hired will not be an employee of WVSDT.

POSITION TYPE: Full time, Grant-Funded

ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT: Mountain State Educational Services Cooperative

PROGRAM: DRIVE – Driving Reentry, Industry, Vocational, and Employment

SUPERVISOR: Jobs and Hope WV

LOCATION: Charleston, WV

SALARY: Up to $55,000 annually, commensurate with education and related experience.

SUMMARY: The DRIVE Transportation Specialist (Transportation and Mobility Manager) is responsible for coordinating and expanding transportation resources that help Jobs & Hope West Virginia participants overcome barriers to employment, education, and workforce training.

This position works collaboratively with Jobs & Hope WV Transition Agents, Reentry Liaisons, employers, transportation providers, and community partners to identify transportation needs, coordinate services, develop partnerships, and improve access to reliable transportation throughout West Virginia. The position also supports implementation, monitoring, and reporting for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) DRIVE initiative.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Transportation Coordination and Mobility Management

• Coordinate transportation assistance and resources for eligible Jobs & Hope WV participants.
• Work with Transition Agents and Reentry Liaisons to identify transportation barriers and develop appropriate solutions.
• Assist in coordinating transportation through community partners, public transit, transportation providers, and other available resources.
• Identify transportation gaps, particularly in rural and underserved communities, and develop strategies to improve access to services.

1. Program and Partner Coordination

• Serve as the primary transportation liaison for the DRIVE initiative.
• Develop and maintain statewide partnerships with transportation providers, employers, workforce development organizations, and community agencies.
• Coordinate referrals and services with Good News Mountaineer Garage, the West Virginia Military Authority, and other DRIVE partners.
• Support participant referrals and coordination of Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training opportunities.
• Identify opportunities to leverage existing resources, establish new partnerships, and develop sustainable transportation solutions.

1. Program Development and Oversight

• Assist in developing and implementing transportation policies, procedures, and referral processes.
• Coordinate vehicle assistance, repair referrals, and other transportation resources in accordance with program guidelines.
• Monitor transportation services, expenditures, and partner activities to ensure compliance with program and grant requirements.
• Research transportation resources, potential funding opportunities, and innovative approaches to addressing transportation barriers.

1. Data Collection and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of transportation requests, referrals, services, and participant outcomes.
• Monitor project activities and performance measures to support DRIVE goals.
• Prepare reports and provide program updates as required by Jobs & Hope WV leadership and funding agencies.
• Evaluate service delivery and recommend improvements based on participant needs and program outcomes.

1. Staff Support and Technical Assistance

• Provide guidance and technical assistance to Transition Agents, Reentry Liaisons, and other staff regarding available transportation resources.
• Develop resource materials and communicate updates regarding transportation programs, procedures, and partner services.
• Participate in statewide meetings, trainings, and collaborative activities supporting transportation and workforce development.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED

• Associate degree required in human services, public administration, business administration, transportation, social services, or a related field.
• Minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in transportation coordination, workforce development, human services, program administration, or a related field.
• Experience coordinating services with community organizations, agencies, or other partners.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain accurate records.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and electronic reporting systems.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel throughout West Virginia.

PREFERRED

• Experience working with individuals facing barriers to employment, including justice-involved individuals and individuals in recovery.
• Knowledge of West Virginia transportation resources, workforce development programs, and community services.
• Experience with grant-funded programs, reporting, and program monitoring.
• Experience developing partnerships and coordinating regional or statewide initiatives.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

1. Ability to identify transportation barriers and develop practical, cost-effective solutions.
2. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to establish effective working relationships.
3. Ability to interpret program guidelines and maintain confidential participant information.
4. Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
5. Commitment to helping individuals achieve employment stability and long-term independence.

CONDITIONS AND EXPECTATIONS:

1. Position is based in Charleston, West Virginia, with statewide travel and occasional overnight travel required.
2. Work may involve visits to partner organizations, correctional facilities, and community-based locations.
3. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.
4. Must comply with applicable organizational policies, grant requirements, and confidentiality standards.
5. Performance will be evaluated based on transportation coordination, partnership development, service delivery, documentation, reporting, and contributions to DRIVE project outcomes.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Candidates must submit a cover letter, resume, and completed official application, along with any additional documentation required by Mountain State Educational Services Cooperative.

EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP:

This position is a grant-funded, will-and-pleasure position with Mountain State Educational Services Cooperative. Continuation of employment is dependent upon available funding, program needs, and satisfactory performance. Employment is subject to applicable Mountain State ESC policies and employment requirements.

MSESC may employ staff, as necessary, to perform services described in the Strategic Plan and/or to operate demonstration, pilot or other projects that may require staff and support services for effective implementation. Upon the recommendation of the Executive Director the Governing Council will consider the approval of all regular full time and regular part time staff at the MSESC after a majority of the members of the Governing Council by vote, verify that such employment is necessary for effective provision of regional services.

MSESC is an at will employer and as such there is no specified length of employment nor does this application constitute an agreement or contract for employment. Accordingly, either MSESC or the employee may terminate the employment relationship at will, at any time, with or without notice or cause, as long as there is no violation of applicable federal, state or local law(s) or regulation(s).

DISCRIMINATION PROHIBITED:

Mountain State ESC provides equal employment opportunities in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.