Transit Operator - Entry Level

City of Gainesville•Gainesville, FL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level position focused on learning the skills needed to operate public transit revenue-service vehicles safely, courteously, and on schedule while providing a positive experience for riders. The position works under direct supervision and reports to a designated supervisor. Employees learn Transit Operator duties and may be required to perform lower-level or incidental duties as needed. The role involves operating agency vehicles on assigned routes, handling fares and passenger records, assisting riders, inspecting vehicles, reporting incidents and service conditions, and following applicable safety, accessibility, communications, and departmental rules. The work involves direct public contact and may take place in traffic, outdoors, and in varying or extreme weather and road conditions. Schedules may include weekends, late nights, split shifts, non-consecutive days off, and short-notice coverage of vacant shifts.

Requirements

Three consecutive, verifiable years of driving experience.
Valid State of Florida driver license.
Driving record covering the previous three years with no more than four points and no more than one moving violation; the stated disqualifying violations include DUI, DWI, and reckless driving, and a currently suspended or revoked license is not acceptable.
Obtain a CDL Class B permit with passenger endorsement before hire, including passing the General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Passenger assessments.
Obtain a CDL Class A or B with passenger endorsement within five weeks after training starts.
Pass a pre-employment medical examination, including satisfactory drug screening.
Ability to learn City geography, vehicle operation, applicable regulations, and transit-vehicle occupational hazards and safety precautions.
Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions and perform basic arithmetic calculations.
Ability to read and comprehend English-language training materials, rules, and DMV materials; communicate orally in English.
Ability to report punctually, adhere to schedules, work effectively with coworkers, management, and the public, and maintain a professional attitude, appearance, and conduct.
Physical ability to perform the listed duties, including work around heavy traffic; walking, sitting, standing, twisting, bending, crouching, kneeling, balancing, climbing stairs, and overhead work; lifting up to 20 pounds and pushing or pulling up to 100 pounds.
Ability to safely maneuver and operate a bus, including hand-eye coordination and frequent repetitive head movements.
Normal color vision and ability to see surroundings, hear and listen to others, respond, and communicate effectively.

Nice To Haves

Valid Florida CDL Class A or B with passenger endorsement is preferred.

Responsibilities

Learn to safely operate all models of agency revenue-service vehicles on assigned routes, in accordance with schedules, traffic laws, and departmental regulations.
Manage farebox transactions, record passenger data by fare type, collect fares, issue transfers, and verify transfers, passes, and identification cards, including digital passes.
Provide customer service, maintain positive rider relations, give accurate route information, and assist riders with safe boarding and discharging.
Help maintain a clean and safe environment for riders.
Perform pre- and post-operation vehicle inspections and document physical deficiencies.
Contact the Control Center about emergencies and conditions that may affect service, including medical emergencies, malfunctions, accidents, traffic, hazards, and obstructions.
Complete accident, incident, and other reports documenting unusual occurrences.
Operate disability-access lifts and ramps; assist wheelchair users upon request and secure mobility devices in accordance with department policy.
Comply with applicable safety regulations and ADA guidelines, including making stop announcements for visually impaired riders.
Operate communications equipment in accordance with FCC and departmental rules.
Wear and maintain the prescribed uniform and a clean, well-groomed appearance.
Respond under emergency conditions and attend work on a continuous and regular basis.
Perform other related duties as assigned.