Bus Operator; Trainee

Position: Bus Operator (FT) Trainee
* Operates a transit vehicle to pick up, transport and discharge passengers while adhering to transit vehicle route schedule and maintaining a pleasant and courteous manner.
* Operates any one of the five models of buses varying in size from 29 to 40 ft.
* Performs HRT pre-trip inspection of transit bus for mechanical problems prior to beginning scheduled run. This includes conducting an external/internal visual inspection of the transit bus and pre-testing all necessary equipment, operating/safety devices, and transit bus controls for use while in service. Also conducts an internal visual inspection at the end of revenue service to collect and turn-in lost items.
* Complete familiarization with system and safety features; geography and roadways of an assigned route and of the entire service area; traffic rules, regulations and laws, transfer points and fare structures.
* Refers to time schedules and instructions for pull-outs, line service, pull-ins, and off-route trips.
* Provides information on bus services to passengers which include bus schedules, routes and fare information.
* Receives and transmits two-way radio messages involving accidents, incidents, emergencies, criminal activities, or other authorized HRT business utilizing judgment and discretion to ensure customer and individual safety.
* Maintains radio contact with CENTRAL Communication to report transit vehicle breakdown, accidents, interruptions in service, or other vital information to maintain efficient transit operations.
* Writes reports and completes forms as required, may prepare detailed written reports concerning accidents incidents, breakdowns and mechanical defects, as required at the end of their shift.
* Adheres to safety rules, regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure the well being of Hampton Roads Transit customers and employees.
* Operates a passenger bus safely and effectively in accordance with the Virginia Code and local traffic regulations.
* Maintains scheduled time over assigned route.
* Ensures safe operation of HRT vehicles under adverse conditions.
* Performs vehicle operations at varying hours of day and night. Will work outside regular business hours as required by the Labor Agreement and by the selection of posted runs.
* Collects proper fares from boarding passengers.
* Operates a wheelchair lift, secures passengers wheelchair and assists passengers with disabilities in boarding, riding and alighting in a safe manner which may include pushing a manual wheelchair up a particularly steep ramp.
* All other duties as assigned.
* Ability to comprehend and operate bus on all streets in Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach.
* Ability to operate vehicle under safest possible conditions.
* Ability to establish and maintain good public relations and effective working relationships with others.
* Ability to successfully complete the Bus Operator Training Program, which includes achieving the required minimum scores on all written and driving tests and evaluations.
* Ability to read, write and speak English.
* History of satisfactory attendance, which includes the ability to report to work in a punctual manner.
* Ability to read and understand maps and time tables, which includes determining directions and following a mapped-out route.
* Ability to use prudent judgment and common sense in making quick, safe decisions with minimal supervision and adapt to constantly changing operating environments.
* Ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing, while interacting with customers and HRT staff in a courteous, professional manner. This includes providing good customer service by attending to the needs of a diverse customer base in a sensitive manner.
* Ability to work and maintain professional composure while under stress and pressure.
* Must have a working knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective security operations for the protection of people, data, property and the organization.
* Extensive knowledge of defensive driving techniques, safety guidelines; customer service procedures and Standard Operating Procedures relevant to your position.
* Social perceptiveness skill. This includes being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
* Ability to see details from a distance, make sound judgment on objects that are closer or farther away from the vehicle ensuring the proper distance is maintained.
* Ability to recognize when something is going wrong and quickly respond to situations which may jeopardize the safety of customers.
* Must be able to listen, understand and carry out the information, ideas, and direction presented verbally, or electronically by CENTRAL Dispatch and or a street supervisor.
* A high degree of maturity, courtesy, memory, and concentration is needed to perform duties.
* Two years public driving experience or five years of related work experience.
* One year of customer service…