Dial-A-Ride Bus Operator - Full Time

St. Cloud Metro Bus; Saint Cloud (MN); On-site; USD 28,992 - 41,292; Full time

Job summary

St. Cloud Metro Bus is hiring a Bus Operator in Saint Cloud, Minnesota. This full-time role offers a starting hourly wage of $25.51 and involves providing safe, reliable transportation services. Responsibilities include operating a bus, conducting inspections, and assisting passengers. Applicants must have a high school diploma, a valid Class B Driver License with appropriate endorsements, and a satisfactory driving record. The position includes benefits such as paid training and at least two consecutive days off per week.

Qualifications

• Must have a valid Class B Minnesota Driver License with endorsements.
• At least three years of satisfactory driving record required.
• Bilingual abilities are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide safe and reliable transportation services.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
• Collect fares and maintain order on the bus.

Skills

Driving skills in all traffic conditions

Customer service

Ability to read and speak English clearly

Interpersonal skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CDL with passenger and air brake endorsements

Tools

Onboard fare and communications technology

Two-way radio equipment

Job description

Overview

Before you begin your application, get to know the minimum qualifications and how we help you get a Commercial Driver's License. First, you'll need to obtain your CDL permit with the following: No airbrake restrictions; Must have passenger endorsement. To obtain your CDL permit and/or endorsements, visit: https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/license-and-id/cdl-cdl/commercial-learners-permit-clp. Once you obtain your CDL permit (including criteria listed above), it's time to apply for the Bus Operator position. The CDL exam is scheduled as part of our paid training program, which includes coaching and resources to support your success.

Starting hourly wage: $25.51. Vacant Bus Operator positions are full-time with at least 2 consecutive days off per week. This is a union position. Work schedules (bids) are selected based on seniority.

Primary Objective

The Dial-a-Ride Bus Operator is responsible for providing safe, reliable, and friendly paratransit and/or on-demand transportation services.

Essential Functions

• Provide safe, reliable, and friendly paratransit and/or on-demand bus transportation services.
• Perform complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections, equipment safety checks, and inform maintenance when mechanical and/or operating issues arise.
• Operate a transit bus in moderate to heavy traffic, according to time schedules while complying with traffic regulations to ensure passengers have a smooth ride and safety is prioritized.
• Provide door-through-door assistance to eligible passengers.
• Operate ramp and wheelchair lift and assist passengers in boarding, securing mobility devices and exiting safely.
• Collect fares, make passenger stops, maintain order on the bus and report delays or service interruptions.
• Write reports and complete paperwork according to policy and procedure concerning accidents, incidents, breakdowns and mechanical defects.
• Communicate courteously and professionally and maintain respectful working relationships with coworkers and customers.
• Interact with coworkers, passengers and the public in a manner that promotes a positive public image; provide clear responses or refer questions to the appropriate Metro Bus team member.
• Perform all duties in compliance with safety guidelines and maintain ongoing safety awareness.
• Know and follow safety rules, wear required protective equipment, and use proper body mechanics; address potentially unsafe conditions with supervision or safety personnel as appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

The job requires a high school diploma or equivalent, three (3) years satisfactory driving record, and demonstrated background in transportation, customer service, or commercial vehicle operation, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. CDL permit with the following implications: No airbrake restrictions; must have passenger endorsement.

Must have, or be able to obtain within 90 days, a valid Class B Minnesota Driver License, with passenger and air brake endorsements and current DOT medical certification.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to safely drive a transit vehicle in all traffic and weather conditions.
• Ability to pass physical assessment, pre-employment DOT physical certification and pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.
• Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with co-workers, passengers, and the general public and to handle all types of situations.
• Ability to understand and carry out both oral and written instructions and complete written reports.
• Must be able to read and speak English clearly; bilingual a plus.
• Ability to work flexible schedules including late evenings, early mornings and weekends.
• Ability to maintain a valid Class B Minnesota Driver License, with passenger and air brake endorsements, and a current DOT medical certificate.
• Ability to gain general geographic knowledge of the St. Cloud Metropolitan area.
• Interpersonal skills sufficient to exchange information, receive work directions, and maintain effective working relationships at all levels; ability to diffuse escalated situations calmly.

Desirable Qualifications

• Technical or community college, business college or two years post-secondary education.
• Public transit experience.
• Experience working with individuals with varying physical and cognitive abilities.

Physical Demands and Working Environment

• This position drives Dial-a-Ride buses requiring extended periods of sitting with moderate standing, walking, stooping, bending, pushing, pulling and reaching.
• Moderate exposure to temperature extremes; limited exposure to noise, physical and/or chemical hazards.
• Utilizes personal computer, onboard fare and communications technology, and two-way radio equipment on a regular basis.

This position description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the organization and requirements of the job change. Metro Bus is an Equal Opportunity Employer in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. It will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, disability, age, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation or preference, veteran status, genetic information, or any other designated protected class.