Transit Bus Operator

Transit Operator | CAT Operations Division

The City’s Transit Operator performs intermediate semiskilled support work in the operation of large passenger buses in public transportation, daily school transportation, school-related events, charter services, and/or other designated routes to transport passengers in a safe, courteous, and timely manner. Work is performed under limited supervision and reports to a Transit Operations Supervisor.

Starting pay: $23.50 an hour. This is a full‑time, non‑exempt position which provides excellent benefits including 13 paid holidays plus 1 floating holiday, paid vacation and sick leave, health insurance options with employer contribution, employer‑paid life insurance, City’s retirement options, gym membership reimbursement, tuition reimbursement and continuing education/training opportunities.

• For a general summary of benefits offered by the City, please click the ‘benefits’ tab on this posting or visit https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..
• The City of Charlottesville manages its own retirement system and does not participate in VRS, however the City has a Portability Agreement with VRS and there are certain provisions that must be met. For questions pertaining to the Portability Agreement, please contact the City’s Benefits Administrator at 434‑970‑3462.

Note: This job opportunity is advertised with a closing date of ‘Continuous.’ Applications may no longer be considered once a reasonable number of applications has been received or once a candidate to fill the position is identified. Applications may be evaluated on a continuous basis and interviews may be conducted as soon as possible during the recruitment. This job announcement may close at any time after 7 calendar days.

• Operate a transit passenger bus or school bus over designated routes and schedules, ensuring safe and timely transportation for passengers.
• Conduct pre‑ and post‑trip inspections of vehicles and related equipment, reporting defects or mechanical issues as required.
• Prepare and maintain trip records, including fares, passenger behavior, mileage, vehicle defects, and condition reports, in compliance with department requirements.
• Assist passengers with boarding and off‑loading, including wheelchair accessibility, and announce bus routes and stops.
• Monitor passenger behavior to ensure safety and maintain a safe and orderly environment aboard the bus.
• When applicable, collect fares, tickets, and passes; ensure proper handling and security of payments and passes.
• Adapt to variables such as adverse weather, traffic, construction, passenger incidents, accidents, schedule changes, and others.
• Provide accurate route and service information to passengers and the public in a courteous and professional manner.
• Communicate with other operators, supervisors, and dispatch via two‑way radio or phone to report traffic conditions, vehicle issues, or passenger concerns.
• Operate a City vehicle in the performance of the job duties.
• Follow safety instructions and attend appropriate safety training, including body fluid spill clean‑up procedures.
• Comply with all traffic laws and safety regulations, employing defensive driving techniques to minimize risks and prevent accidents.
• Report accidents or emergencies immediately and complete required reporting information, maintaining composure and ensuring passenger safety during such events.
• Coordinate fueling and basic maintenance of the bus, communicate mechanical concerns, record mileage, and ensure the vehicle is clean and safe throughout each shift in accordance with division requirements.
• Attend required meetings and training sessions as needed to maintain compliance with DOT, FTA, and Virginia State School Bus standards.
• Support departmental goal to provide dependable, efficient, and safe transportation service.
• May be required to work non‑traditional work schedule, including weeknights, weekends, and/or holidays.
• Subject to being called back to work to the City in emergencies or as needed to provide necessary services to the public. Must have the ability to be contacted and respond based on Departmental guidelines.
• Responsible for appropriate…