Bus Driver

East Chicago; East Chicago, Northern (IN, KY); On-site; USD 36,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of East Chicago is hiring a Public Transit Driver to operate buses, trolleys, and trams on assigned routes. You will ensure passenger safety, assist with boarding, follow traffic laws, and maintain accurate trip logs.

Requirements include a CDL with a Passenger endorsement and a DOT medical certificate. The role emphasizes safety, customer service, and reliable performance in a Regular Full Time capacity within the Bus Transit department.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of commercial driving experience.
• CDL with Passenger endorsement required.
• DOT medical certificate and active medical card required.
• Knowledge of the City of East Chicago geography is essential.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate buses, trolleys, and trams on designated routes and schedules.
• Ensure passenger safety, comfort, and safety protocols throughout trips.
• Assist passengers with boarding/de-boarding, including those with disabilities.
• Follow traffic laws and company policies.
• Maintain vehicle cleanliness and perform basic inspections.
• Handle fare collection and fare systems where applicable.
• Communicate with dispatch and report safety hazards or incidents.
• Prepare and maintain trip logs and mileage records.
• Provide courteous, professional customer service at all times.

Skills

Vehicle Operation

Customer Service

Communication

Time Management

Multitasking

Problem-Solving

Safety Mindset

Education

CDL with Passenger endorsement

DOT medical certificate

Tools

Fare card systems

Job description

Job Opportunities

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"Be the reason someone gets where they need to go." Become a Public Transit Driver with the City of East Chicago. Immediate openings to be filled soon!

City of East Chicago

OPENING DATE: October 13, 2025

Exempt / Non-Exempt : Non-Exempt

Position Status : Regular Full Time

Department : Bus Transit

Reports to : Supervisor/Director

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a dedicated, safety-conscious Public Transportation Driver to operate buses, trams, or other public transportation vehicles. The ideal candidate will provide safe, efficient, and courteous service to passengers while adhering to all local and national traffic laws, regulations, and company policies. This position requires excellent customer service, a strong knowledge of routes, and a commitment to public safety.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and scope of work being performed by the position. This is not a complete listing of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required. Other duties may be assigned.

• Safely operate public transportation vehicles, including buses, trolleys, and trams, according to designated routes and schedules.
• Ensure passengers’ safety, comfort, and well-being throughout the trip.
• Assist passengers with boarding and de-boarding, including those with disabilities or special needs.
• Follow all traffic laws, regulations, and company policies related to operating a public vehicle.
• Maintain cleanliness of the vehicle, conducting basic vehicle inspections before and after each shift.
• Handle fare collection, ticketing, and fare card systems (where applicable).
• Monitor traffic conditions, adjust routes as needed, and report any incidents or malfunctions to the appropriate authorities.
• Communicate effectively with dispatch and report any safety hazards or irregularities.
• Manage emergency situations by following established protocols.
• Keep a detailed log of mileage, fuel usage, and passenger counts.
• Engage with passengers in a polite, friendly, and professional manner.
• Report accidents, violations, or incidents in a timely manner.
• Ensure the vehicle is stocked with necessary safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and emergency exits.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Public Transportation Systems : Knowledge of local routes, timetables, and service areas, as well as common transportation challenges and needs.
• Safety Standards : Understanding of federal, state, and local regulations related to transportation safety.
• Vehicle Operation : Familiarity with operating large vehicles, including buses and trams, and ensuring they function safely.
• Traffic Regulations : Knowledge of traffic laws and road signs, including those specific to public transportation operations.
• Customer Service : Understanding the needs and concerns of diverse passengers, including those with disabilities, senior citizens, and families.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum of 2 years of commercial driving experience (preferred, but not required).
• Previous experience as a public transportation driver, shuttle driver, or in a related field is a plus.
• Experience working with a diverse range of passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.
• Good driving record, no major accidents in the past three (3) years
• Good knowledge of the geographical layout of the City of East Chicago
• Experience with fare systems and customer service in a public setting is desirable.

Regulatory Requirements:

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) : A valid CDL with a Passenger (P) endorsement is required. A School Bus endorsement (S) is a plus.
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Regulations : Must comply with all FMCSA standards regarding hours of service, vehicle inspections, and drug/alcohol testing.
• Background Check : Must pass a background check and meet eligibility requirements set by local and federal regulations.
• Drug and Alcohol Testing : Participation in a random drug and alcohol testing program is required per Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.
• Medical Certification : Must pass a DOT medical examination and maintain an active medical certificate.
• First Aid & CPR : Certification in first aid and CPR is highly preferred or may be required.
• Endorsements : Depending on the vehicle type and specific service area, additional endorsements (such as air brakes) may be required.
• Compliance with Local and State Regulations : Must adhere to any specific local or state transportation laws.

Skills:

• Vehicle Operation : Ability to safely operate large and complex vehicles in various traffic conditions and environments.
• Communication : Strong verbal and written communication skills for interaction with passengers, colleagues, and supervisors.
• Customer Service : Ability to interact with the public in a courteous, empathetic, and professional manner.
• Problem-Solving : Ability to assess situations quickly and make decisions that ensure passenger safety and service continuity.
• Time Management : Ability to adhere to schedules while adjusting to unplanned situations, such as traffic or weather delays.
• Route Planning : Ability to follow predetermined routes and adjust if necessary in response to unforeseen circumstances.

Abilities:

• Concentration and Focus : Ability to stay focused for long periods of time while driving through varied and potentially hazardous conditions.
• Physical Stamina : Ability to sit for long hours, move around the vehicle to assist passengers, and perform minor physical tasks such as cleaning or vehicle checks.
• Multitasking : Ability to manage multiple tasks, such as operating the vehicle, assisting passengers, and communicating with dispatch, without compromising safety.
• Safety Mindset : Ability to react calmly and appropriately in emergency or high-pressure situations, maintaining safety for all passengers.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential function of this job.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Ability to lift, carry, or move items up to 25 pounds.
• Clear vision and hearing to ensure passenger safety.
• Ability to operate in a noisy environment with distractions, including passengers, other vehicles, and unexpected events.
• Mental ability to stay alert and focused during long shifts, particularly when operating during peak hours or adverse conditions.

The City of East Chicago does not discriminate in its employment decisions based on race, color, religion, gender, age, genetic information, disability, national origin, ancestry, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.