Coach​/Bus Operator Apprentice; Classes 1 & 2

Job Title:
Coach/Bus Operator Apprentice – Class 1 (CDL Permit Holders):
January 4, 2027;
Class 2 (Full CDL Holders):
January 18, 2027

Status:
Represented – ATU 998

FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt

Department:
Transportation

Wage: 1st year pay rate: $25.74 per hour

Would you like to get a head start on your career? Gain valuable mentoring throughout your first year as a bus operator. MCTS, in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, offers the Coach/Bus Operator Apprenticeship program, a great first step toward a long-term career with us.

MCTS offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Paid CDL Training (No Experience Required!)
• Weekly Pay
• Cost of Living Adjustments (C.O.L.A.)*
• Paid Vacation, Holidays, Personal Days, Sick, Funeral leave and Jury Duty
• Medical, Dental and Prescription Drug Insurance
• Defined Pension Plan (Funded 70% by The Milwaukee County Transit System and 30% by employees)
• Health & Wellness Initiatives
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Gym Membership Reimbursement
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Free bus rides for all MCTS active employees and retirees

Milwaukee County Transit System is seeking to hire Apprentices for the Coach/Bus Operator position. This is a State approved, thirteen (13) month registered apprenticeship program, where you will receive classroom and hands-on training from experienced mentors. During the training period, Apprentices will obtain their CDL and learn all aspects of safely operating a passenger bus all while providing an essential service to the communities of Milwaukee County.

As an Apprentice, you will learn to drive in a safe, efficient, and courteous manner while adhering to a pre-determined route and schedule. Apprentices will exhibit excellent customer services skills and allow passengers to board, travel and alight at scheduled stops. In addition to intensive training, Apprentices will also meet with a mentor who will provide additional guidance to ensure the success of the Apprentice.

Upon successful completion of the program, Apprentices will receive a Coach/Bus Operator Journey worker’s card issued by the State of Wisconsin.

• Safely operate transit bus in strict compliance with Milwaukee County Transit System policies, guidelines, and procedures, as well as follow all Wisconsin and Federal traffic laws and regulations.
• Collect fares according to existing fare structure, inspect bus passes and issue valid transfers in a professional, courteous manner.
• Operate the radio, farebox and other systems within the bus in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Provide public timetables and accurate information to customers.
• Call street locations, transfer points, major intersections, and other requested stops in compliance with ADA guidelines and Company policy.
• Provide accessibility for disabled passengers to board and alight by properly operating all ramps and lifts and safely securing passengers in compliance with ADA guidelines and Company policy.
• Demonstrate excellent customer service skills when interacting with all passengers.
• Perform vehicle inspections before, during and after scheduled work assignments. This includes internal and external areas of the bus, reporting all defects on proper forms.
• Monitor Special Bulletins and detours daily and make appropriate adjustments as needed.
• Follow Company policy for handling lost articles including a visual inspection of the bus at the end of the line and at pull-in.
• Complete accident and incident reports accurately and legibly, as necessary.
• Complete fare box, passenger, and bus maintenance defect reports, as…