Bus Operator

DRIVER TRAINEE RATE $20.00

POST-TRAINEE RATE $21.55 (EFFECTIVE AFTER 30 WORKING DAYS OF TRAINING)

This position operates a public transit passenger bus in accordance with District schedules and other related programs. Maintains a safe and orderly environment while providing a high level of customer service.

Class Characteristics

This classification is responsible for ensuring safe and timely transport of passengers. Moderate level of supervision is required.

Supervision Received and Exercised

This classification reports to the Operations Supervisor(s), Operations Manager, and to the Director of Operations. This classification does not have any supervisory responsibilities.

Core Competencies

• Safe Driving Skills
• Customer Service
• Communication Skills
• Time Management
• Regulatory Compliance
• Problem-Solving

Essential Functions

The functions and duties listed below represent the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them if the work is related. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind work assignments as needed.

• Drive a bus in accordance with para-transit/micro-transit passenger transport programs and over designated routes in accordance with time schedules and District regulations.
• Comply with DMV requirements and District rules, policies, practices, and regulations regarding holders of commercial drivers’ licenses and operators of commercial vehicles.
• Pick up, transport and drop off bus riders.
• Check vehicles daily to maintain safe operating conditions.
• Timely report equipment malfunctions, vehicle collisions, passenger incidents and other related issues to District staff.
• Ensure payment of correct fares by passengers.
• Provide assistance to passengers, including assistance in boarding, de-boarding and safely securing wheelchairs, wheelchair lifts and announcing stops.
• Assist passengers with directions and answers questions regarding District operations, rules, and regulations.
• Completes accident or incident reports as needed.
• Attend scheduled safety meetings and safety programs as required.
• Operate two-way bus radio in accordance with established operating rules and procedures.
• Complete DMV required Verification of Transit Training (VTT), annually.
• Performs related work duties as required.
• Reports to work as scheduled.
• May be required to work extended hours or hours outside of the regular schedule including early mornings, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays.

Qualification Guidelines

Any combination of experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of the classification is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills and abilities is as follows:

Education, Training, and/or Experience

High school diploma or GED equivalent. Minimum of 21 years of age with a minimum of (3) years of holding a valid California Driver’s License.

Licenses and/or Certificates

Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Class B California driver’s license with passenger and air brake endorsements. Ability to obtain and maintain a current CDL medical certificate. Driving record (K4) acceptable to District’s insurance underwriter must be provided for consideration.

Requisite Knowledge and Skill Levels

• Knowledge of safe driving practices.
• Knowledge of state and local traffic laws.
• Provisions of the California Motor Vehicle Code.
• Requisite reading, mathematical and written language skills in order to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Customer Service principles and practices.

Requisite Abilities

• Ability to obtain continually possess a valid California Commercial Driver’s License with air-brake and passenger endorsements.
• Ability to comply with FTA and DOT requirements for CDL holders at public transit agencies.
• Ability to successfully complete the District’s Operator training program.
• Ability to drive a bus safe and efficiently.
• Ability to learn a designated bus route.
• Ability to use a two-way radio.
• Ability to recognize malfunctions in equipment and take appropriate actions.
• Ability to recognize hazardous driving conditions and adopt effective courses of action.
• Ability to understand…