Introduction
Local council transport departments work to provide travellers
with a choice of public transport. They operate within a
policy that seeks to:
- make transport services available to all;
- improve and protect the environment;
- encourage sensible transport planning decisions.
Local government transport managers play a crucial role in
ensuring the delivery of a safe, efficient transport service for
the community.
Work Environment
Local government transport managers work in offices, but might
sometimes be required to travel out to site visits and
appointments. Most work a flexi-time system based around 37
hours a week.
Daily Activities
Local government transport managers are concerned with the forward
planning, implementation and review of services relating to
transport, highways development and car parking, in a local
area. Transport managers have responsibility for ensuring the
smooth running of the transport service, which includes some or all
of the following:
- collecting and analysing data and other information related to
transport services and preparing reports for Councillors, the
Government and funding agencies;
- identifying existing and possible future transport problems,
and investigating the feasibility of alternative means of
transport;
- developing transport models and testing and evaluating
transport options for an area;
- preparing the local council's transport policy and compiling
information for a range of strategic documents and reports;
- overseeing health and safety, education, training and publicity
related to transport issues;
- introducing new transportation management techniques;
- advising on car parking charges;
- preparing proposals for major local highway schemes;
- providing a business plan for car parking activities;
- monitoring budgets and financial targets;
- designing Best Value procedures;
- advising on national legislation, guidance and regulations
relating to transportation;
- managing and supervising staff.
Skills & Interests
Local government transport managers need:
- good written and verbal communication skills;
- excellent research skills and the ability to analyse and
interpret data;
- to be able to explain complex transportation issues, both to
fellow professionals and those with little or no knowledge of
transportation;
- to be good decision-makers;
- to be well organised with good ICT skills;
- a strategic overview of transport issues.
Entry Requirements
Most new entrants are graduates with a degree in a relevant
transport or engineering subject, for example, Transport Studies,
Transport Planning and Management, Transportation, or Civil and
Transport Engineering. Entry to a degree course is normally
with five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3), with two A levels/three
highers, or equivalent.
Future Prospects & Opportunities
Local government transport managers may progress to senior
management roles within the council. They may use their
skills and experience in other council departments, for example,
environment or planning.
Further Information & Services
Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation www.iht.org
People 1st www.people1st.co.uk
Transport Planning Society www.tps.org.uk/
You may find further information about this area of work through
Careers Wales (www.careerswales.com/) or
in your local library, careers office or school careers
library.