Bus Operator

TriMet • Multiple Locations In Portland Metro Area, OR

13d • Onsite

About The Position

Provide safe, reliable, courteous, and efficient bus transportation for people in the TriMet service area, and be committed to safety through consistent and professional work. Safety is a fundamental value that guides all aspects of our work! Ensure a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance through effective leadership, training, role modeling and implementing practices that demonstrate safety is a fundamental value and a priority in all aspects of work. Serve as a good steward of TriMet by regularly utilizing our transit system to maintain a strong and current understanding of customers’ experiences and of TriMet’s product and service offerings.

Requirements

• A minimum of a High School Diploma (G.E.D.) or equivalent is required.
• Possession of a valid and active driver's license for the past three (3) years is required.
• Ability to secure Oregon or Washington Interstate CDL Class "B" license (available at age 21), with a passenger "P" endorsement and no air break restriction is required.
• Ability to pass a driving record check meeting TriMet driving record standards.
• A safe driving record meeting the established criteria is required: Traffic Violations/Accidents Serious violations, which appear on the driving record, will disqualify an applicant from consideration for a period of ten (10) years. Less serious violations will disqualify an applicant from consideration if they occurred in the last three (3) years.
• Suspensions A suspended driver's license for longer than three months (90 days) in the past three (3) years will disqualify an applicant from consideration.
• Ability to demonstrate/develop strong customer service/interpersonal skills to provide positive interactions with customers, problem-solving and customer assistance.
• Ability to work with the public in a variety of situations while performing several tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to use independent judgment and make decisions without direct supervision.
• Ability to develop and maintain defensive driving skills and operate a transit bus in a safe and efficient manner, as demonstrated during training period.
• Ability to read, write and communicate in English.
• Ability to report to work regularly and on time.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, management and the general public, including those from different backgrounds, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and/or other vulnerable populations.
• Ability to pass the required post-offer job-related physical and drug screen for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to work any shift out of any location (schedules are determined by seniority)
• Out of state DMV record if you have held a license outside of Oregon in the past 10 years
• A complete 5-year (if applicable) work history with reasons you left previous employers

Responsibilities

• Prepare bus for operation by performing pre-trip safety inspection.
• Monitor the ongoing condition of the vehicle during operation.
• Operate a bus on specified route(s) according to established time schedules.
• Follow District rules and policies, obey traffic laws, and remain knowledgeable regarding any changes in same.
• Develop and practice defensive driving skills to prevent vehicle or passenger accidents.
• In the event of an accident or emergency, assist passengers to assure their safety.
• Monitor and initiate two-way radio calls, reporting any unusual conditions such as accidents, passenger incidents or traffic problems promptly.
• Provide accurate information to customers regarding fares, routes, schedules and operating rules.
• Announce major streets, transfer points, and points of interest as required.
• Maintain courteous and professional demeanor with customers at all times.
• Assist disabled passengers with boarding and exiting the bus.
• Secure wheelchair clamps or safety belts as may be required.
• Provide verbal and written reports to District supervisors and management regarding route, safety, schedule, fare, and operational problems or concerns.
• Assist in the instruction of student operators for route orientation and further development of the student's operating skills.
• Prepare required paperwork, such as lost and found tags, accident/incident reports, and bus defect reports.

Benefits

• Union, Exempt, Minimum starting wage: $30.23 to $40.29 per hour. Wage will be in accordance with the current Working and Wage Agreement, effective 12/01/2025.
• Regular full-time or part-time (minimum 25 hours per week).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED