First-Line Supervisors of Transportation Workers, All Other

These supervisors coordinate the daily activities of transportation workers to ensure operations run smoothly and safely. On the job, they schedule employees, monitor transit activities, and resolve operational issues as they arise. The work requires strong leadership and coordination skills, as supervisors must direct the efforts of others and manage time effectively.

Those in this field benefit from having a solid understanding of transportation systems and personnel management. They must be dependable, detail-oriented, and capable of taking charge in fast-paced environments. The role typically appeals to individuals with realistic and enterprising interests who enjoy hands-on problem-solving, organizing teams, and making practical decisions to keep transit services moving on time.

To enter this career, candidates typically need a high school diploma. While a college degree is not standard, pursuing a major in ground transportation can provide valuable preparation and industry knowledge. Some states also list specific licensing requirements for this line of work, so candidates should check local regulations depending on where they plan to practice.

Because this is a supervisory role, many people transition into these positions after gaining hands-on experience in the transportation industry. Working in entry-level transit or ground transportation roles helps future supervisors learn the daily operations, safety protocols, and team dynamics necessary to lead others effectively.

The median annual pay for these supervisors is $62,890. The lowest 10% of earners in this field make less than $43,360, while the highest 10% earn more than $96,150. These wage figures represent the broader group of first-line supervisors of transportation and material moving workers, except aircraft cargo handling supervisors.

Employment in this field is projected to grow by 3% from 2025 to 2035, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. There are 623,640 people employed in this sector. Despite the average growth rate, the field expects about 54,900 job openings each year to replace workers who retire or transfer to other careers.