Bus Handler - $25.89/hr & FT paid CDL training

Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 36,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

PTO

Union membership

Job summary

Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) in Ithaca, NY is seeking a full-time General Labor role for night shifts. You will clean and detail buses, perform light mechanical tasks, and assist with daily operations while learning from experienced mechanics. Overtime may be available and safety training provided.

The position offers a living wage, comprehensive benefits, and union support. A High School diploma is required; CDL-B is preferred but not required as training is provided.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• CDL-B with air brake/passenger endorsement preferred but not required.
• Commercial permit preferred.
• Able to work in all weather conditions and nights.

Responsibilities

• Clean and detail buses inside and out, including biohazards and wheelchair lift maintenance.
• Light mechanical work: fueling, fluid checks, belts and brakes inspection, and logging vehicle info.
• Drive and park buses through wash and into designated spots.
• Handle fare vaults; remove, install and secure vaults at shift end.
• Support the team; assist mechanics and supervisors; train new hires.

Skills

Safe driving

Teamwork

Communication

Reliability

Night shift

Education

High School diploma

Job description

Job Details: Location: Ithaca, NY 14850. Position: Full-time, benefits-eligible. Education Level: High School. Salary: $25.89 per hour (increasing to $26.67 in 2027). Shift: Graveyard, 5:00 PM to 3:30 AM, four nights a week. Category: General Labor.

What You’ll Do:

• Clean & Detail Buses – Inside and out! From sweeping and wiping down seats to handling biohazards and washing the wheelchair lift.
• Light Mechanical Work – Fueling, checking fluid levels, inspecting belts & brakes, and logging vehicle info.
• Drive & Park Buses – Move buses through the wash and into their designated spots.
• Handle Fare Vaults – Remove, install, and secure fare vaults at the end of each shift.
• Support the Team – Help mechanics & supervisors, and train new hires.

We’re Looking For:

• Safe Drivers!
• CDL-B with air brake/passenger endorsement preferred
• Commercial Permit‑holders preferred
• No CDL is required – we’ll train you!
• Dependable & reliable in all weather conditions
• Basic mechanical skills and ability to use tools
• Strong communication & teamwork skills
• Willing to work night shift (four 10‑hour days) and occasional overtime

Working Conditions: This role involves exposure to diesel fuel, cleaning supplies, biohazards, and loud engine noise. You’ll be on your feet, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in all kinds of weather. We’ll provide training for safety and health protocols, including HIV exposure and Hepatitis B vaccination recommendations.

Why Join TCAT?

• Living wage certified employer
• Excellent benefitsincluding generous contributions to medical insurance as well as fully employer‑paid dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• Generous PTO: 15 vacation days, 7 sick days, 3 personal days, 6 paid holidays
• Union membershipwith job security and support
• Be part of a mission‑driven team serving passengers and growing our transit services in Tompkins County!

Union Membership & Dues:

TCAT, Inc. is a proud union shop. Bus Handlers will become members of the UAW Local 2300 upon successful completion of a 90‑day probationary period. Assessed dues shall be a sum equivalent to a rate of 1.25 hours of wages, at the employee’s straight rate of pay, per two‑week pay period.