Transit Operator; s

General Description

The Transit Bus Operator under close supervision is responsible for safely operating transit buses to transport passengers along designated routes. This role ensures courteous, timely, and reliable service while maintaining compliance with all applicable state and federal transportation regulations. Operators conduct routine safety inspections of bus equipment and uphold the highest standards of passenger care and operational safety.

The following list of essential functions represents the tasks performed within this classification. The omission of a specific function does not prevent management from assigning related duties if they are logically associated with the position.

• Operates assigned routes in accordance with system timetables, manifests and/or Dispatch instructions.
• Performs a complete pre‑trip inspection of bus, safety checks equipment, and informs management when maintenance repairs need to be made.
• Fuels and cleans bus daily to ensure it is ready for service.
• Provides schedule, route and fare information to passengers seeking assistance.
• Operates wheelchair lift and assists passengers with disabilities in boarding, riding, and alighting in a safe manner which may include pushing a wheelchair up and down the lift/ramp.
• Secures wheelchairs of passengers with disabilities and clearly communicates the action being taken.
• Receives and transmits two‑way radio messages involving accidents, passenger incidents, emergencies, criminal activities, or other authorized Rio Metro business in compliance with FCC Regulations.
• In emergency situations, contacts Dispatch for medical/police assistance and may be required to evacuate the bus.
• Reports hazardous or dangerous conditions along bus route and at passenger loading zones, including such hazards as unusual traffic, road conditions, obstructions, construction and potential criminal activity.
• Completes reports and necessary forms.
• Maintains, supports, and promotes a safe work environment while complying with all of Rio Metro’s safety policies and procedures.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED and six (6) months of public contact or customer relations experience.

Additional Requirements

• Must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico Commercial Driver’s License (CDL‑A, or
  
  B) with passenger (P) endorsement.
• Must successfully pass a background check and have a clean driving record (no DUIs, accidents, WEI convictions and no moving violations).
• Must complete a Rio Metro sponsored CPR/First Aid course within six (6) months of hire.
• Must be 21 years of age.
• Must have satisfactory attendance and work performance records as verified by reference check prior to offer of employment.
• Must successfully pass a drug and alcohol screening prior to employment and random drug testing after employment.
• Must obtain DOT medical certificate and keep current.
• Positions in this classification are considered safety sensitive under Federal Transit Administration (FTA) drug and alcohol regulations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated knowledge of operation principles, methods, safety, system and traffic regulations to implement an efficient, safe and dependable transit operation.
• Manages time efficiently.
• Exhibit high level of skill in communication, both written and verbal, and able to understand and follow detailed oral and written instructions in English.
• Experience in and utilizes customer service skills.
• Exercise effective attention to detail & time management.
• Maintain positive, proactive and professional conduct and communication with co-workers, passengers and the public.
• Able to operate Rio Metro vehicles and equipment safely and efficiently.
• Work independently in a structured environment; exercising sound judgment in stressful situations.
• Read, interpret, follow and apply Rio Metro policies and procedures.
• Able to read a map.
• Read, write, speak and understand English.
• Considerable knowledge of state and local traffic laws, ordinances and regulations involved in the operation vehicles; vehicle safety rules and regulations, basic money and time concepts.
• Considerable skill a high level of skill…