Bus Operator

The Bus Operator safely and efficiently operates PSTA buses and trolleys to transport passengers along designated routes in a timely and courteous manner. Under minimal supervision, this position adheres to Authority policies and procedures while ensuring passenger safety, providing excellent customer service, and maintaining schedule reliability.

Ability to safely operate PSTA revenue and non-revenue vehicles.

Ability to adhere to route schedules while operating in mixed traffic conditions.

Provides great customer service to passengers and others.

Performs vehicle inspection as required.

Ensures proper fares are collected and recorded.

Respectfully provides accurate information to passengers related to the use of PSTA service.

Communicates with dispatch, road supervision, and emergency vehicles via radio equipment and the IVN and Transit Control Head (TCH).

Operates wheelchair lift equipment and assists disabled passengers.

Announces bus stops in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Resolves passenger disputes in a courteous manner.

Prepares related written reports and documents as required.

Perform other functions as assigned.

Position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION:

High School diploma or G.E.D. preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

Four (4) years driving experience. Clean driving record; no more than 3 traffic violations in the last 5 years; or 3 years without any traffic violations. Must successfully pass all tests and written examinations given. Must successfully pass a DOT physical and drug test. Will have Division of Motor Vehicle records checked. Knowledge of Florida traffic laws;
Pinellas County streets and highways is preferred.

Equivalent combinations of education, experience, and training may be considered.

LICENSE REQUIREMENT: A Florida driver license is required by start date, and you must possess one of the following:

Class “B” Commercial Driver’s License with Passenger endorsement and Air Brakes, or;

Class “B” CDL Permit with Passenger and Air Brake endorsements (available at DMV offices by completion of a written test).

OTHER REQUIREMENT:
Must maintain a working phone number that can accept text messages.

Quality of Work:
Produces accurate, thorough, and high-quality work, following applicable instructions.

Customer Focus:
Provides excellent customer service to internal and external customers.

Communication:
Communicates clearly and effectively with colleagues and stakeholders.

Teamwork / Interpersonal Relationships:
Works and collaborates with others respectfully and productively; contributes to a positive environment.

Productivity/Time Management:
Effectively manages time and resources to meet deadlines and achieve goals; takes appropriate initiative to complete tasks and resolve issues without guidance.

Knowledge:
Florida Traffic Laws;
Pinellas County streets and highways (preferable); defensive driving skills.

Skills:

Safe driving and excellent interpersonal relations.

Abilities:
Report to work on time in order to adhere to assigned routes and time schedules; to comply with attendance and tardiness work rules; ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing; to interact courteously and effectively with the public; to develop and maintain good working relationships with fellow employees; to do simple arithmetic; to read, to write legibly, to speak effectively, and to understand verbal and written instructions.

Standing: 30 minutes to 1 hour/day on asphalt, concrete, rubber matted flooring of bus, grassy areas/gravel on side of road.

Sitting: 45 minutes to 2 hours at one time with seat belt properly…