Lead Public Transit Operator; Goodhue & Rice Counties

• Base Pay $24.7 - $27.00 / Hour
• Job Category Transportation
• Employee Type Full-Time Hourly
• Required Degree NONE
• Travel 50%
• Manage Others No

The Lead Transit Operator (Lead Driver) is responsible for driving assigned routes and backing up other drivers as needed to ensure continuous service. In addition to operating the vehicle, the Lead Transit Operator assists leadership personnel, such as the Transportation Operations Coordinator, with a variety of administrative and operational tasks. These can include reporting, scheduling, conducting driver observations, and providing route training to new or current drivers.

The Lead Transit Operator also helps with the timing and planning of routes, coordinates the scheduling of vehicle maintenance, and conducts regular vehicle and facility inspections to ensure safety and operational readiness. Additionally, the Lead Transit Operator plays a key role in resolving dispatch issues, ensuring smooth and efficient transit operations.

This full‑time position (40 hours per week) will be based in either Faribault, Northfield, or Zumbrota and required to travel throughout our service area, primarily in Rice and Goodhue counties. The pay range is $24.70–$27.00 per hour, based on experience and qualification.

Job offers are contingent on a reference check, Motor Vehicle Record review, criminal background study with fingerprinting, Medical Examiner's Certificate, fitness‑for‑duty exam, and a pre‑employment DOT drug test. Employees in this position are subject to random and reasonable suspicion DOT drug and alcohol testing throughout their employment.

• Ability to pass a required background study.
• Strong organizational skills, including prioritizing tasks, managing multiple projects, and meeting deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Valid driver’s license for at least 3 years in good standing (no more than 1 moving violation in the previous 12 months).
• Current, valid personal automobile insurance.
• Ability to pass a background study (no felony convictions).
• Willingness to adhere to all CFR Part 40 regulations for public transit operators, including drug and alcohol testing.
• Pass a Fitness for Duty exam, paid by the agency.
• Safely operate large transit vehicles, equipment, mobility lift, and security devices.
• Read, write, and speak English for communication with passengers and dispatchers.
• Adhere to all state and highway safety rules and regulations.
• Use tablets and basic transit software.
• Pass driver training on Passenger Assistance, Maltreatment Awareness, Defensive Driving, First Aid/CPR, and Child Passenger Safety.
• Minimum 1‑2 years of supervisory experience.
• Agency will assist in obtaining a Commercial Learners Permit and Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
• Paid training to obtain CDL and Passenger Endorsement within 90 days.

• Fluency in one or more languages other than English, especially Spanish or Somali.

• Frequently office‑based with use of computer and office equipment.
• Frequent travel using personal means.
• Ability to sit for long periods driving, use hands for controls, occasional bending/squatting/reaching.
• Safely operate vehicles and equipment in all weather conditions.
• Pass Fitness for Duty exam.
• Adhere to ADA compliance and aid passengers with mobility devices.
• Potentially frequent lifting up to 75 lbs.

• Competitive wages with opportunities for advancement.
• Extensive benefits for regular staff (30+ hours/week), including affordable health insurance, HRA, FSA, dental, vision, voluntary life/AD&D, critical illness, and hospital indemnity.
• Immediate eligibility for 403(b) investment with automatic match after 1 year.
• Generous paid time off for regular staff (30+ hours/week).
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Training and professional development.
• Supportive work environment that values lived experience and teamwork.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that values lived experience. We strongly encourage individuals from under‑represented populations and those with relevant lived experiences to apply. Three Rivers is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

If you require assistance or accommodation during the application process due to a disability, please contact Human Resources at jobs or 507‑316‑0610.

Three Rivers is an equal opportunity employer.