School Bus Transit Operator; Relief

Position Overview

The City of Charlottesville Pupil Transportation Division is seeking candidates for the Relief School Bus Transit Operator position. Relief drivers work as needed to maintain full service.

Performs intermediate semi-skilled support work in the operation of large passenger buses in public transportation, daily school transportation, school-related events, charter services, and other designated routes to transport passengers safely, courteously, and timely. Work is performed under limited supervision and reports to a Transit Operations Supervisor.

Starting pay is $23.50 an hour. This is a non‑exempt, temporary (variable/limited‑hour) position and is not eligible for city benefits.

• Operate a transit or school bus over designated routes and schedules, ensuring safe and timely transportation for passengers.
• Conduct pre‑ and post‑trip inspections of vehicles and related equipment, reporting defects or mechanical issues as required.
• Prepare and maintain trip records, including fares, passenger behavior, mileage, vehicle defects, and condition reports, in compliance with department requirements.
• Assist passengers with boarding and off‑loading, including wheelchair accessibility, and announce bus routes and stops.
• Monitor passenger behavior to ensure safety and maintain a safe and orderly environment aboard the bus.
• When applicable, collect fares, tickets, and passes; ensure proper handling and security of payments and passes.
• Adapt to variables such as adverse weather, traffic, construction, passenger incidents, accidents, schedule changes, and others.
• Provide accurate route and service information to passengers and the public in a courteous and professional manner.
• Communicate with other operators, supervisors, and dispatch via two‑way radio or phone to report traffic conditions, vehicle issues, or passenger concerns.
• Operate a City vehicle in the performance of the job duties.

• Follow safety instructions and attend appropriate safety training, including body fluid spill clean‑up procedures.
• Comply with all traffic laws and safety regulations, employing defensive driving techniques to minimize risks and prevent accidents.
• Report accidents or emergencies immediately and complete required reporting information, maintaining composure and ensuring passenger safety during such events.
• Coordinate fueling and basic maintenance of the bus, communicate mechanical concerns, record mileage, and ensure the vehicle is clean and safe throughout each shift in accordance with division requirements.
• Attend required meetings and training sessions as needed to maintain compliance with DOT, FTA, and Virginia State School Bus standards.
• Support departmental goal to provide dependable, efficient, and safe transportation service.
• May be required to work non‑traditional work schedule, including weeknights, weekends, and/or holidays.

• Subject to being called back to work for the City in emergencies or as needed to provide necessary services to the public; must have the ability to be contacted and respond based on departmental guidelines.
• Responsible for appropriate use and maintenance of City equipment, tools, and other resources, including work time.
• Regular and reliable attendance.

• Perform additional duties to support operational requirements as apparent or assigned.

• High School diploma or GED AND one year of experience performing customer service tasks.
• Three years of work experience performing customer service tasks.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the specific requirements listed above.

• Some experience working with children, general public and/or operating a commercial vehicle or similar equipment.
• Possession of a valid Class B Commercial Driver’s License or CDL Learner’s Permit.

• Successfully pass a pre‑employment background check, pre‑employment drug screen (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). pre‑employment DMV driving record review, and industry‑specific post‑offer physical exam.
• Possession of a valid appropriate driver’s…