Bus Operator (PT) Trainee

Hampton Roads Transit; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A public transit authority is seeking a dedicated Bus Operator to safely transport passengers while maintaining a pleasant demeanor. Candidates must have experience in public driving and customer service. The role involves performing pre-trip inspections, providing information to passengers, and ensuring adherence to safety regulations. This position requires effective communication skills and the ability to operate under various conditions. Successful completion of training programs is essential.

Qualifications

• Must have two years of public driving experience or five years of related work experience.
• One year of customer service experience is required.
• Ability to read, write and speak English.

Responsibilities

• Operate a transit vehicle to transport passengers safely.
• Conduct pre-trip inspections of the bus.
• Provide information to passengers on bus services.

Skills

Defensive driving techniques

Customer service

Communication skills

Public relations

Judgment and decision making

Education

High school diploma

Job description

* Operates a transit vehicle to pick up, transport and discharge passengers while adhering to transit vehicle route schedule and maintaining a pleasant and courteous manner.* Operates any one of the five models of buses varying in size from 29 to 40 ft.* Performs HRT pre-trip inspection of transit bus for mechanical problems prior to beginning scheduled run. This includes conducting an external/internal visual inspection of the transit bus and pre-testing all necessary equipment, operating/safety devices, and transit bus controls for use while in service. Also conducts an internal visual inspection at the end of revenue service to collect and turn-in lost items.* Complete familiarization with system and safety features; geography and roadways of an assigned route and of the entire service area; traffic rules, regulations and laws, transfer points and fare structures.* Refers to time schedules and instructions for pull-outs, line service, pull-ins, and off-route trips.* Provides information on bus services to passengers which include bus schedules, routes and fare information.* Receives and transmits two-way radio messages involving accidents, incidents, emergencies, criminal activities, or other authorized HRT business utilizing judgment and discretion to ensure customer and individual safety.* Maintains radio contact with CENTRAL Communication to report transit vehicle breakdown, accidents, interruptions in service, or other vital information to maintain efficient transit operations.* Writes reports and completes forms as required, may prepare detailed written reports concerning accidents incidents, breakdowns and mechanical defects, as required at the end of their shift.* Adheres to safety rules, regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure the well being of Hampton Roads Transit customers and employees.* Operates a passenger bus safely and effectively in accordance with the Virginia Code and local traffic regulations.* Maintains scheduled time over assigned route.* Ensures safe operation of HRT vehicles under adverse conditions.* Performs vehicle operations at varying hours of day and night. Will work outside regular business hours as required by the Labor Agreement and by the selection of posted runs.* Collects proper fares from boarding passengers.* Operates a wheelchair lift, secures passengers wheelchair and assists passengers with disabilities in boarding, riding and alighting in a safe manner which may include pushing a manual wheelchair up a particularly steep ramp.* All other duties as assigned.* Ability to comprehend and operate bus on all streets in Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach.* Ability to operate vehicle under safest possible conditions.* Ability to establish and maintain good public relations and effective working relationships with others.* Ability to successfully complete the Bus Operator Training Program, which includes achieving the required minimum scores on all written and driving tests and evaluations.* Ability to read, write and speak English.* History of satisfactory attendance, which includes the ability to report to work in a punctual manner.* Ability to read and understand maps and timetables, which includes determining directions and following a mapped-out route.* Ability to use prudent judgment and common sense in making quick, safe decisions with minimal supervision and adapt to constantly changing operating environments.* Ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing, while interacting with customers and HRT staff in a courteous, professional manner. This includes providing good customer service by attending to the needs of a diverse customer base in a sensitive manner.* Ability to work and maintain professional composure while under stress and pressure.* Must have a working knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective security operations for the protection of people, data, property and the organization.* Extensive knowledge of defensive driving techniques, safety guidelines; customer service procedures and Standard Operating Procedures relevant to your position.* Social perceptiveness skill. This includes being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do.* Ability to see details from a distance, make sound judgment on objects that are closer or farther away from the vehicle ensuring the proper distance is maintained.* Ability to recognize when something is going wrong and quickly respond to situations which may jeopardize the safety of customers.* Must be able to listen, understand and carry out the information, ideas, and direction presented verbally, or electronically by CENTRAL Dispatch and or a street supervisor.* A high degree of maturity, courtesy, memory, and concentration is needed to perform duties.* Two years public driving experience or five years of related work experience.* One year of customer service experience* This position is classified as essential personnel.* Ability to pass DOT physical examination* Must be able successfully complete Hampton Roads Transit’s bus operations training program.* Must successfully pass a job-related agility assessment.* Must be able to pass federal government background screening process for local military installation access.* Climb and descend bus steps* Climb up and down the stairwell* Ability to walk approximately ¼ mile in all weather* Ability to bend at the knees or squat to perform various pre-trip requirements* Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.* Ability to kneel, bend and squat at wheelchair securement positions* Excellent night vision is required.### Introduce yourself