Coach Operator

North County Transit DistrictOceanside, CA
Onsite

About The Position

The primary responsibilities of the Coach Operator are to, under direct supervision, operate public transit buses, transport passengers, provide customer service, and perform safety inspections of bus equipment to assure their safe, efficient, and on-time operation. Operators are required to have a valid California Class B driver’s license with airbrakes and Passenger Endorsement and must be able to navigate the complex city streets of San Diego County, handling various traffic and weather conditions. They assist passengers, including those with special needs, and manage potentially stressful situations. The role requires strong communication and customer service skills, physical stamina, and adherence to North County Transit District’s (NCTD’s) safety protocols. NCTD offers comprehensive paid training, including permit, classroom, and hands-on instruction, along with ongoing further educational opportunities. The position also requires flexibility in work hours, as shifts may include nights, weekends, and holidays. This position is represented by Teamsters Local Union #542.

Requirements

  • Must be 21 years or older
  • Possession of and the ability to maintain a California driver’s license, Class C, with less than 6 points in the prior 36-month period and no DUIs in the prior 7 years.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain access to Marine Corp Base Camp Pendleton.
  • Must be able to obtain a permit and a valid California Class B Commercial Driver License with P (Passenger) and airbrake endorsement before completion of training
  • Valid California Verification of Transit Training (VTT) Card
  • Valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC)
  • Must pass NCTD Coach Operator course at Operations Central Instruction (OCI)
  • Exhibit a friendly, professional, and customer-service oriented demeanor continuously.
  • Exceptional relationship-building skills to deal competently with individuals at all levels of responsibility and authority.
  • Exercise sound judgment in stressful situations within scope of responsibility.
  • Communicate courteously and effectively with other employees and the general public.
  • Push, pull, and secure wheelchairs up to 275 pounds.
  • Lift up to 35 pounds
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions and temperatures and be able to step, climb, walk, and sit for long periods.
  • Understand and follow detailed oral and written instructions.
  • Follow safety rules and ensure passengers are safe.
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.

Nice To Haves

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred

Responsibilities

  • Collects fares and transports passengers on public transit buses.
  • Operates a transit bus safely, courteously, and efficiently, while maintaining schedule adherence.
  • Performs a complete pre-trip inspection of the bus, safety checks on equipment, and informs maintenance when adjustments or repairs are necessary, at completion of assignment.
  • Refers to and implements route maps, time schedules, and instructions for pull-outs, pull-ins, and detours.
  • Provides schedule, route, and fare information to passengers seeking assistance.
  • Operates wheelchair ramp and assists passengers with disabilities in boarding, riding, and alighting in a safe manner, which may include pushing a wheelchair up and down the ramp.
  • Secures wheelchairs of passengers with disabilities and clearly communicates the actions being taken.
  • Receives and transmits two-way radio messages involving accidents, emergencies, or bus related matters.
  • Reports hazardous or dangerous conditions along bus routes and at passenger loading zones, including such hazards as unusual traffic, road conditions, obstructions, construction, and potential criminal activity; alters route if and approved.
  • Maintains an acceptable driving record and complies with all state and local traffic regulations and NCTD policies and procedures.
  • Completes any reports as necessary or requested by division management.
  • Contributes to ensuring that the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policies and programs of NCTD are carried out.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive paid training, including permit, classroom, and hands-on instruction
  • Ongoing further educational opportunities
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service