Bus Driver; Public Transit Operator

Bus Driver (Public Transit Operator) (Transportation)

The Public Transit Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently transporting passengers along designated routes, ensuring timely arrivals and departures. You will perform routine vehicle inspections, adhere to all traffic laws and safety regulations, and provide excellent customer service by assisting passengers as needed. Additionally, you will maintain accurate records of daily activities, including ridership counts and vehicle maintenance reports, and respond to any on‑the‑road issues or emergencies in accordance with company procedures.

You will work to promote accessibility and ensure that all individuals, including those with disabilities, are provided with a safe and reliable transit experience. (Full Position Description will be shared with applicants selected for in‑person interviews; to request full description, call 507‑316‑0610.)

For the Red Wing area, Hiawathaland Transit is seeking full‑time drivers (36 hours per week). Help people get safely to places in their community.

Start at $22.70/hour if you already have a Class C CDL and Passenger Endorsement (PE); otherwise, start at $21.70/hour. Will primarily drive in the Red Wing area but may occasionally be assigned to another city/community.

Hiawathaland Public Transportation is administered by Three Rivers Community Action, Inc., a non‑profit agency providing economic opportunities that strengthen individuals, families and communities in southeastern Minnesota.

Job offers are contingent on a reference check; a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review; a criminal background check with fingerprinting through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS); a Medical Examiners Certificate (“med card”); 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. If you do not have a CDL and Passenger Endorsement, a permit is required before your start date.

• Ability to pass a required background study, as defined by the position.
• Current, valid driver’s license for at least three (3) years in good standing.
• Current, valid personal automobile insurance.
• Ability to successfully pass required background study (including, but not limited to, no felony convictions).
• Willingness/ability to adhere to all CFR Part 40 regulations as they pertain to public transit operators, including but not limited to submission to and successfully passing of drug and alcohol testing throughout employment.
• Ability to safely operate large transit vehicles, associated equipment, mobility lift, and security devices safely and efficiently.
• Ability to read, write and speak English to communicate effectively with passengers, dispatchers and in emergency situations.
• Demonstrated adherence to all state and highway safety rules and regulations.
• Ability to use tablets and other basic transit software.
• Ability to pass Driver Training on topics including, but not limited to:
• Passenger Assistance
• Maltreatment Awareness
• Defensive Driving
• First Aid/CPR
• Child Passenger Safety

NOTE:

If position is offered to and accepted by applicant, the Agency will provide resources to assist applicant in obtaining a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) and a Medical Examiners Certificate (Medical Card) prior to their first day of employment. Employment will not begin until both are obtained. Paid training is provided to assist new hires in obtaining CDL and Passenger Endorsement; must obtain CDL and Passenger Endorsement within 90 days of start date.

• Ability to sit for long periods of time while driving and use hands to finger, handle, or grasp objects and controls, and reach with hands and arms.
• Ability to safely operate large transit vehicles and equipment safely in all types of weather and environmental conditions.
• Ability to adhere to ADA compliance and reasonable accommodation requirements and physically assist passengers personally, or with mobility devices or property as needed.
• Ability to pass a Fitness for Duty Exam paid for by the agency at the clinic of the agency’s choosing.
• Potentially frequent…