Transit Operator Trainee - Part Time

King County•Multiple locations in King County, WA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

At King County Metro, we believe public transportation is more than just getting from point A to B—it’s about connecting people to opportunities, fostering inclusive communities, and making every ride a positive experience. We are looking for compassionate, service-driven individuals to join our team as Transit Operators. In this role, you’ll play a vital part in ensuring that every passenger feels safe, valued, and welcome. You’ll provide excellent customer service, assist riders with care, and help keep our transportation network running smoothly. You don’t need prior experience—just a commitment to customer service, safety, and community. If you’re a great communicator, enjoy helping others, and want to make a difference in people’s lives, we encourage you to apply. Reliability and punctuality are fundamental traits of successful Transit Operators. Join us and drive the change you want to see in your community. Apply today! Metro Transit is recognized as the Outstanding Public Transportation System of 2018 by the American Public Transit Association and Washington Transit Agency of the Year by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO). As one of North America's top transit agencies, we’re committed to providing exceptional, accessible transportation and building strong community connections. Join our team and help shape the future of mobility! We foster a respectful, supportive environment where everyone thrives. Our Transit Operators do more than drive—they connect communities, create opportunities, and make a difference every day. Join us and be part of something bigger!

Requirements

Strong customer service skills
Must be able to report to assigned work location in a timely, reliable manner.
Willingness to learn and try new things
The ability to learn new routes and procedures and to follow them reliably
Flexibility to work split shifts and a varied schedule and weekends and holidays
Reliability and motivation
Knowledge of English, sufficient to communicate, read and follow road signs, and to comprehend written instructions and standard operating procedures, notices and memos
All applicants must be 21 years old at time of application
A valid driver license and the ability to obtain a Washington State Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) with the Air Brake restriction removed and a Passenger endorsement
Ability to obtain a valid Washington State Commercial Drivers License(CDL) class "B", with passenger endorsement and air brake restriction lifted.
Applicants without a valid Commercial Drivers License must obtain a Commercial learner's permit before the first day of training
Acceptable five-year driving record at the time of an offer of employment – any of the following violations in the last five years will automatically disqualify candidates under consideration: Reckless or negligent driving, Driving Under the Influence or Driving While Intoxicated, Hit and Run accident citation, Vehicular homicide or vehicular assault, Open container citation, More than one at-fault accident (does not include non at-fault accidents), Any, 1 suspension for a moving violation, No more than 2 moving violations within the last 5 years. Within the last 5 years, no license suspension, revocation, cancellation or disqualification based on a traffic or moving violation. No license restrictions (such as an ignition interlock device requirement) within the last 5 years. No convictions within the last 5 years for reckless or negligent driving, hit and run, leaving the scene of an accident, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, vehicular assault or homicide. No alcohol, drug or test refusal related occurrences within the last 5 years. No other driving record incidents or occurrences within the last 5 years that provide a reasonable basis to question the applicant's ability to provide safe and public transportation.
To obtain a CLP in Washington State, you must be able to provide a current non-expired drivers license, Social Security number and proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residency to a Washington State Department of Licensing Testing Facility.

Nice To Haves

Previous transit and customer service experience

Responsibilities

Be a friendly and welcoming presence for all passengers.
Ensure every rider gets to their destination safely and comfortably.
Assist individuals, including seniors and people with disabilities, with respect and patience.
Navigate routes with confidence while following traffic laws and safety procedures.
Act as the eyes and ears of the community, reporting any safety concerns to keep our riders and neighborhoods secure.
Provide safe, professional, and courteous on-time bus service for customers in King County
Follow all traffic laws and regulations
Communicate effectively with all customers regarding fares, routes, schedules, and transfer points
Effectively operate transit vehicles and equipment, including wheelchair lifts and the securing of personal mobility devices
Successfully communicate with Transit Control Center via radio
Accurately complete verbal and written reports
Responsible for understanding this policy and their role in safety
Report all safety concerns
Follow safety practices and procedures as necessary to maintain a safe work environment and in conformance with applicable regulations, policies, and training
Report safety and security concerns and ideas to supervisors or anonymously through data collection system