Temporary - Transit Operator

Salary: $22.23 - $27.91 Hourly
Location : Yakima, WA
Job Type: Temporary
Department: Public Works
Division: Transit
Opening Date: 01/01/2026
Bargaining Unit: AFSCME

Initial candidate eligibility is based on the job application and any accompanying documentation. It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide sufficient information and details within the body of the application (education and work experience sections) to permit the City of Yakima to properly evaluate the candidate's qualification, abilities and experience as it relates to the requirements of the position.

For calculation of experience, one year of experience equals 12 months with a minimum of 173.33 hours per month. Additional required documents must be attached. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of application fields.
Overview and Minimum Class Requirements
THIS IS A TEMPORARY NON-CIVIL SERVICE POSITION NOT TO EXCEED 866 WORK HOURS IN THE YEAR. Temporary positions are not covered by collective bargaining benefits. Temporary operators may be eligible for promotion to a permanent operator position.


**** ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED****

A "Full" or "Employment" Driving Record MUST BE ATTACHED WITH YOUR APPLICATION.

You can obtain your driving record from the local DMV or online at License Express (WA)

Record must have been obtained within 30 days of submission. If you have difficulty attaching your driving record, please contact  for assistance.


*** Applications without an employment driving record will not be considered.***

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

CDL license as defined. High school diploma/GED AND six (6) months driving and/or customer service experience is preferred.
Shall be subject to drug and alcohol testing, pursuant to Department of Transportation (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). (49 CFR Part 40) and the Federal Transit Administration's Regulations (49 CFR Part 655).
LICENSE, REGISTRATION & CERTIFICATES

Must possess and maintain a valid Class A or B Commercial Driver's License. Passenger endorsement is preferred and must be obtained within six (6) weeks of hire. Must obtain and maintain a valid First Aid/CPR Certificate within six (6) months of appointment.

Job Summary
Under general supervision; operates a City bus in a safe and efficient manner to transport passengers over local routes according to prescribed time schedules; performs related work as required.
Essential Functions
Drives transit vehicles over prescribed City routes in accordance with established safety procedures; provides information to passengers about business locations, routes, time schedules, and transfer points; collects fares from patrons and issues transfers on request; must maintain an attitude of professional concern for passengers, pedestrians and vehicular traffic around bus while operating bus in a manner to avoid traffic and pedestrian hazards, providing the greatest personal safety to passengers being transported.
Works to ensure passenger and operator safety by enforcing passenger rules, regulations and City policies and procedures. Helps ensure bus is kept clean and orderly for passenger safety and comfort.
Assists passengers with physical disabilities and secures wheelchair passengers. Cares for and turns in lost-and-found articles.
Inspects transit equipment such as lights, horn, and brakes to insure the proper and safe operation of the vehicle; cleans buses, on occasion; may periodically use two-way radio to communicate with transit office to report accidents, emergencies, or unusual operating conditions.
Participates in special events and/or operate buses on special routes that involve or promote public transit; participates in meetings with supervisors and general staff as required; completes mandatory and recommended trainings timely and as directed.
Fosters an attitude that encourages cooperation and coordination of efforts and efficient use of resources. Provides continuous effort to improve operations, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers.
Requires regular and reliable attendance.
Performs other related duties as assigned.

Major Worker Characteristics
Knowledge of…