Bus Operator

Hillsborough Area Regional Transit; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in public transportation is seeking dedicated Transit Operators to ensure safe and timely operations of mass transit vehicles. This role involves driving various transit vehicles while adhering to safety regulations and schedules, engaging positively with passengers, and maintaining accurate records. Ideal candidates will possess excellent communication skills, a strong understanding of defensive driving, and a commitment to providing exceptional service. Join a team that prioritizes safety and community service, and be part of a vital service that connects people to their destinations.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Three years of driving experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate transit vehicles safely while adhering to schedules.
• Collect fares and provide information to passengers.
• Perform pre-trip inspections and report mechanical issues.

Skills

Effective Communication

Defensive Driving Techniques

Interpersonal Skills

Record Keeping

Mathematical Calculations

Education

High School Graduate or G.E.D.

Tools

Transit Vehicles

Two-way Radio

Wheelchair Lifts

Job description

Description

DIVISION: Operations
LOCATION: 4305 East 21st Ave Tampa, FL 33605
PAY RATE: $21.00/hr. as per the Union Contract

*****Next Class: July 7th, 2025*****

POSITION PURPOSE:

This position provides safe and timely operation of the Authority's mass transit vehicles. Transit Operators observe all state and local traffic laws and all safety rules and adhere to time schedules.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Performs pre-strip inspections of Transit vehicles as required by the Federal Department of Transportation (FDOT).
• Operates various types of mass transit vehicles utilizing defensive driving techniques and according to guidelines established by the Authority.
• Answers passengers' questions relative to connecting routes, discharge zones, schedules and fares utilizing various modes of communication, including vehicular public announcement (PA) systems, face-to-face interchanges, destination signage, and route schedule brochures.
• Collects and accounts for fares.
• Picks up assigned route materials from the dispatcher (e.g. pocket schedules, courtesy cards, pre-departure slips, public schedules, and other related materials).
• Operates transit service on time, adhering to designated time points on pocket/public schedules, picking up and alighting passengers.
• Operates all special needs equipment as requested and/or required.
• Prepares factual and concise accident and incident reports to submit to Dispatcher as required.
• Reports mechanical defects, road hazards, vehicle or equipment malfunctions, and other service-related concerns per the Authority's policies and procedures.
• Conducts special surveys, passenger counts, and distributes company information as needed.
• Operates all various types of wheelchair lifts and securement systems.
• Responsible for courteous and tactful interaction with the public, projecting a positive image of HART.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

• Performs other work-related duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience:

• High School graduate or G.E.D. certificate, preferred.
• Three years of driving experience (commercial and/or non-commercial) preferred.
• Must be a minimum of eighteen (18) years of age.

Machines, Tools and Equipment Used:

• Transit Vehicles, two-way radio and telephone, wheelchair lifts, and securement systems.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Florida Driver's License; (CDL) Class "A or B" with "P" (Passenger) endorsement.
• A clean driving record; no more than seven (7) points in the last three (3) years.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to effectively communicate with customers face-to-face or via PA systems.
• Ability to operate all Authority mass transit vehicles.
• Ability to operate all Authority routes.
• Ability to comprehend local geography.
• Ability to drive in daylight and darkness.
• Excellent verbal and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under stress and interruptions.
• Ability to interact positively with a variety of personalities internally and externally.
• Ability to maintain records and prepare reports.
• Ability to follow written instructions.
• Ability to perform calculations with accuracy.
• Ability to dress appropriately and maintain personal hygiene.
• Ability to conduct oneself so that they are not a threat to themselves or others.
• Ability to meet attendance and punctuality requirements.
• Ability to be a flexible, effective team player.
• Knowledge of defensive driving techniques.
• Knowledge of rules, regulations, procedures, and policies of the Authority.
• Knowledge of geographical area of county and city.
• Knowledge of HART schedules and routes.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

• Constant periods of sitting and driving transit vehicles.
• Occasional periods of bending, kneeling, and stretching.
• Occasional periods of exposure to extreme heat and cold.
• Ability to occasionally push and pull objects in excess of 100 lbs. when assisting patrons in wheelchairs.
• Constant exposure to noise and fumes.
• Subject to all weather conditions.
• Work is performed in a standard office environment. Incumbent may sometimes be located in an outdoor, street, community, or shop environment.
• Ability to hear, see, speak, and perceive color, depth, and texture.
• Subject to standing, walking, bending, reaching, stooping, and lifting of objects up to 25 pounds.
• May be exposed to potentially intimidating and/or unreceptive members of the public; may occasionally be exposed to extreme noise and physical harm or fumes and airborne particles.

It is the responsibility of all HART employees to provide a safe and secure environment for HART customers, contractors, visitors, and fellow co-workers. HART employees are also responsible for:

• Adhering to stated policies and procedures relating to health and safety, security, and quality management.
• Recognizing and reporting all accidents and hazardous conditions.
• Assisting in the development of workplace safety procedures for their respective departments.
• Promoting workplace safety procedures within their department.
• Adhering to procedures relating to the proper use and care of equipment and materials for which the role has responsibility.

Note: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. The statements are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All employees may perform other duties as assigned.

The Agency promotes a safe and healthy work environment and provides appropriate safety and equipment training for all personnel as required.

EEO Compliance: HART is committed to equal employment opportunity for all persons, regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, or other status protected by Federal or State law.

ADA Compliance: Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during the application process and/or interview process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.