Bus Driver

WMATA; Maryland; On-site; USD 25,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) offers entry into the MetroBus Operator Training Program as Student Bus Operators. Applicants may be civilians or military personnel and must be at least 21 years old and pass background and medical checks.

During training, CDL permit holders with Passenger Bus and Airbrakes endorsements earn $18/hr; those with full CDL and endorsements earn $20/hr.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years old at testing
• CDL or Learner's Permit with Passenger Bus and Airbrakes before starting Bus Training
• Background check and medical examination process required
• Driving record: no more than two moving violations in the last 3 years; no suspensions/revocations

Responsibilities

• Attend and complete the Bus Operator training program, including classroom and on-road components
• Learn to operate WMATA buses on scheduled routes
• Demonstrate safety, regulatory compliance and customer service during training

Skills

CDL/Endorsements

Background check

CDL state exam readiness

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Job description

Job Description

This is an extended duration posting for current and future openings for the MetroBus Operator Training Program. Applications will be continuously assessed.

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) invites applications for entry into the MetroBus Operator Training Program as Student Bus Operators. Applications are welcomed from both civilians and current/former military personnel. Qualifying candidates must be at least 21 years old at the time of testing and possess the ability to satisfactorily complete the background check and medical examination process. The most desirable candidates are those who currently possess a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or Learner's permit with Passenger Bus and Air Brakes endorsements. A copy of the CDL learner’s permit or license will be verified prior to testing.

During training, CDL permit holders with valid Passenger and Airbrake endorsements are paid an hourly rate of $18. CDL license holders with Passenger and Airbrake endorsements with no restrictions earn an hourly rate of $20. Those successfully completing the training program will assume a full-time regular MetroBus Operator position at which time the hourly rate will increase to $29.49/hr.

The MetroBus Operator position is represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 689, and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 922.

• Shift: Various
• Location: Various
• Assigned Days Off: Various

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education

NA

Experience

• No experience required
• Must be at least 21 years of age

Certification/Licensure

• Licensed driver for a minimum of four (4) or more years
• A Commercial Driver’s License or Learner’s Permit with Passenger Bus and Airbrakes endorsement before starting Bus Training
• Driving record must reflect no more than two (2) moving violations and no suspension or revocation due to moving violations within the last three (3) years
• Commercial Driver’s License (must be acquired by the conclusion of the Bus training program)

Preferred

• High School Diploma/GED
• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Passenger Bus and Air Brake endorsements

MOS/SOC

The military occupational skills (MOS) or service occupational codes (SOC) that are most applicable to the MetroBus Operator position are listed below.

MOS/SOC and/or Military Function

• US Army
• 88M
• US Air Force
• 2T111, 2T131, 2T151
• US Marines
• 3531, 3534

Medical Group

Satisfactorily complete the medical examination for this position, if required. The incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this particular position either with or without reasonable accommodation(s).

Summary

The Student Bus Operators are responsible for attending and successfully completing the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s (WMATA) bus operator training course where they are taught to operate WMATA commercial passenger buses on scheduled routes across the metropolitan area and provide courteous and professional customer service to passengers. The Student learns and adheres to all safety and traffic rules, company regulations, policies, and procedures to ensure the well-being of WMATA customers, employees, public, and themselves. Students must demonstrate their acquired skills and knowledge through the successful passing of examinations and practical demonstrations. This is a safety sensitive position subject to the rules and regulations of WMATA’s Drug and Alcohol Policy.

Essential Functions

• Successfully completes Bus Operator and CDL training program, which includes classroom study, on-route training, driving experience, and resources (including the Bus) necessary to take and pass the state CDL examination.
• Student who already have a CDL License are not required attend the CDL portion of the training
• Learns to perform complete pre- and post-operation inspection of the assigned vehicles in accordance with WMATA policy to ensure tire pressure, fluid levels, safety equipment, gauges, and controls are in proper working order. Reports any safety issues on standard reports.