Paratransit Operator

Rhode Island Public Transit Authority; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 58,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) is recruiting externally for Paratransit Operator positions within the Flexible Services Division. This full-time role requires safe transportation of passengers, daily manifest compliance, and routine vehicle inspections.

Hours vary by business need; shifts may be early morning, split or late evening, and weekends/holidays as needed. Computer literacy and the ability to communicate clearly with RIPTA staff and passengers are essential.

Qualifications

• Must be able to fluently communicate verbally and in writing with RIPTA staff and passengers.
• Computer literacy required, able to operate a tablet to perform daily duties.

Responsibilities

• Assists passengers entering and exiting van.
• Operates vehicle along assigned routes, collects and counts fares per procedures.
• Operates vehicle in compliance with company policies and traffic laws.
• Inspects vehicle (brakes, lights, doors, tires, wheelchair lift, tie downs, horn) for safety.
• Maintains interior cleanliness and reports any issues promptly.
• Notifies Operations Coordinator in emergencies and evacuates passengers if needed.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Computer literacy

Job description

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) is recruiting externally for one (1) or more positions of Paratransit Operator. This is an Amalgamated Transit Union, Division 618 (ATU 618) position. All applicable Collective Bargaining Unit Agreement (CBA) selection criteria will be applied when considering internal applicants.

Position: PARATRANSIT OPERATOR

Posting Period

July 4, 2026 to July 2, 2027

Salary

$58,115.20 to $64,563.20 Annum

Reports To

Director of Paratransit Services

Union Affiliation

Amalgamated Transit Union Division 618 (ATU 618)

Description of Work

Under general direction, the Paratransit Operator is responsible for the safety and transportation of passengers and equipment per daily manifest in compliance with all applicable policies and regulations. Responsible for performing routine vehicle inspections and maintaining cleanliness and proper fluid levels. Collects designated fares from passengers following established policies, guidelines and procedures.

This is a full-time position within the Flexible Services Division.

Hours can vary based on the needs of business; hours are not guaranteed.

Must be able to work early morning, split or late evening shifts.

Must be available on weekends and holidays as needed.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Assists passengers entering and exiting van;
• Operates vehicle along assigned routes. Picks up passengers, collects and counts fares and protects revenue collected according to established procedures;
• Operates vehicle in compliance with all company policies and state traffic laws and regulations;
• Inspects vehicle (including, but not limited to, brakes, lights, doors, buzzers, tires, wheelchair lift, tie downs, and horn) to ensure serviceable condition. Keeps interior of vehicle neat and presentable to passengers (i.e., papers, etc.);
• Must be able to fluently communicate both verbally and in writing with RIPTA staff and passengers;
• Computer literacy required. Must be able to operate, read and understand information provided on a tablet to perform daily job duties;
• Responsible for the safety of passengers and equipment;
• Notifies the Operations Coordinator of any emergency, requesting additional assistance as needed; evacuates passengers if emergency situation warrants action;
• Prepares accident/incident reports as soon as possible as required by applicable policy;
• Maintains adequate knowledge of RIde system in order to provide routine information and direction to the public;
• Attends training sessions provided by RIPTA to ensure passenger and vehicle safety;