Motor Coach Operator Trainee: Start Your Driving Career

City of Santa Monica; Santa Monica (CA); On-site; USD 37,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Santa Monica is seeking entry-level Motor Coach Operators who will drive city buses on assigned routes and schedules. Trainees will complete an eight-week training program under supervision to qualify for promotion to a full Motor Coach Operator.

Responsibilities include safe vehicle operation, assisting passengers, and maintaining accurate fare handling and reporting. Applicants must meet age, licensing, and driving record requirements and may be subject to DOT testing.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or the equivalent.
• Minimum 21 years of age at time of application.
• One year of recent, paid customer service work experience.
• Valid California Class C driver license with a minimum of two years of safe driving; before training, must possess a California Class A/B permit with medical certification, passenger endorsement, and no restrictions for weight or passengers.
• Before starting, must be able to obtain a DOT drug/alcohol testing commitment per regulations.

Responsibilities

• Operates a motor coach on an assigned route and schedule.
• Complete an eight‑week formal training program as a Motor Coach Operator Trainee.
• Maintain safety standards, operate equipment, and provide passenger assistance as needed.
• Prepare reports and handle fare collection tasks.
• Assist passengers and provide route information to the public.

Skills

Customer service

Defensive driving

Reading maps

Public interaction

English literacy

Teamwork

Communication

Basic math

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

The City of Santa Monica is seeking entry-level Motor Coach Operators who will drive city buses on assigned routes and schedules. Trainees will complete an eight-week training program under supervision to qualify for promotion to a full Motor Coach Operator.

Responsibilities include safe vehicle operation, assisting passengers, and maintaining accurate fare handling and reporting. Applicants must meet age, licensing, and driving record requirements and may be subject to DOT testing.