Bus Operator - 1st Year

City Utilities of Springfield • Springfield, MO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

City Utilities is hiring a Bus Operator to transport passengers on scheduled routes and to drive small coaches for the Access Express System serving passengers with disabilities. Under the direction of the Supervisor-Bus Services or designee, the operator performs vehicle safety checks, follows applicable laws and utility safety rules, operates the bus safely, assists passengers, answers route and schedule questions, collects fares, and completes required reports. The role includes required training and is designated safety-sensitive.

The position pays $25.37 per hour during the first year and $31.24 per hour thereafter. The work schedule is Extra Board, to be discussed during the interview, with up to 60 hours per week. The operator must be available for daytime and nighttime hours, split shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.

Requirements

• High school graduation or equivalent.
• At least one year of experience driving large vehicles.
• A valid Missouri CDL permit.
• Obtain a CDL license, air-brakes and passenger endorsements, and complete the assigned training program or related classes within three months of employment.
• Ability to operate a large vehicle safely and properly.
• Ability to present a neat appearance and pleasant attitude, work closely with the public, make sound judgments in tense situations, and prepare records and reports.
• Dependability and willingness to work varying schedules.
• Good customer-service skills and the ability to interact positively and courteously with customers and fellow employees.
• Good public-relations and communication skills, including projecting a positive image of City Utilities.
• Ability to use digital tools and platforms, including Microsoft Office Suite, enterprise software, AI-enhanced applications, and self-service systems, and willingness and capacity to learn emerging technologies relevant to utility operations.
• Ability to maintain adherence to company policies.
• Ability to perform the listed physical activities, step up and down bus steps to assist passengers with disabilities, and manually deploy a wheelchair ramp by lifting up to 35 pounds.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DOT medical certification.
• Ability to drive in any weather condition and remain alert, aware of surroundings, and responsive to changing circumstances.
• Ability to work successfully with diverse groups of people.
• Meet Department of Transportation drug and alcohol testing program requirements.
• Wear uniform clothing provided by City Utilities; management may require replacement due to wear or staining.

Nice To Haves

• Special training in operating diesel-powered transit buses or heavy-duty trucks.
• Knowledge of the city street system.

Responsibilities

• Conduct bus safety checks at the beginning of and during shifts; report major mechanical problems immediately and minor problems at the end of the shift.
• Comply with local, state, and federal bus-operation laws and utility safety rules; promptly report route delays, detours, accidents, and injuries.
• Operate buses safely and reliably, regulate onboard heating, air conditioning, lighting, and ventilation, and provide passengers with a smooth and comfortable trip.
• Answer inquiries about schedules, routes, transfer points, and street locations, and maintain order on the bus.
• Assist passengers with disabilities onto fixed-route buses and Access Express vehicles, following applicable ADA requirements and operating related equipment.
• Collect fares and prepare reports for each run or trip; complete accident, incident, first-aid, and delay reports, forward them to the Bus Supervisor, and file police reports when needed.
• Complete training provided and required by City Utilities.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by management.

What This Job Offers

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