Bus Operator (AKA Customer Service On Wheels)

Bus Driver

Are you a "people person" with experience in customer service? If you're looking to move into a solid career, let us train you to become a world-class Bus Driver!

Bus Drivers earn $18.00/hour after training, and progress to $31.60/hour within 4 years. Stay cool in the Florida heat with air-conditioned buses. Enjoy an attractive benefit package that includes paid vacation and sick time, health insurance, Florida pension, college tuition assistance, and more.

Is a Commercial Driver License Required to Apply? A Commercial Driver License (CDL) is not necessary to be considered for the Bus Driver role, although candidates must possess a valid Florida driver license, and be able to pass a written CDL permit test at the DMV. New hires will receive paid CDL training.

Essential Functions

• Drive the latest models of well-maintained transit buses and trolleys.
• Create wonderful experiences for commuters, day travelers, and tourists.
• Welcome and interact with guests to collect fares as they board.
• Provide friendly and courteous service while answering riders' questions.
• Adhere to route schedules while operating in mixed traffic conditions.
• Focus on the safety of our riders as they travel throughout Pinellas County.
• Conduct visual vehicle inspections daily and ensure the safety of our riders.
• Communicate with dispatch, road supervision and emergency vehicles via radio equipment and the IVN and Transit Control Head TCH.
• Operate a disabled lift/ramp to assist guests using wheelchairs to gain access to the bus.
• Announce bus stops in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Resolve passenger disputes in a courteous manner and prepare related written reports and documents.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: High School diploma or G.E.D. preferred

License: Florida Driver License required by start date, and you must possess one of the following:

• 1. Class "B" Commercial Driver's License with passenger endorsement and air brakes, or;
• 2. Class "B" CDL permit with passenger and air brake endorsements (available at DMV offices by completion of a written test)

Special Requirements: Four (4) years driving experience. Clean driving record; no more than 3 traffic violations in the last 5 years or 3 years without any traffic violations. Must successfully pass all tests and written examinations given. Must successfully pass a DOT physical and drug test. Will have Division of Motor Vehicle records checked. Knowledge of Florida traffic laws; Pinellas County streets and highways (preferable). Knowledge of: Florida Traffic Laws; Pinellas County streets and highways (preferable) defensive driving skills.

Skilled in: Safe driving and excellent interpersonal relations. Abilities: Report to work on time in order to adhere to assigned routes and time schedules; comply with attendance and tardiness work rules; communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing; interact courteously and effectively with the public; develop and maintain good working relationships with fellow employees; simple arithmetic; reading, writing legibly, speaking effectively, understand verbal/written instructions.

PSTA offers great training and career development opportunities. PSTA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, or other protected status, as established by Federal or State laws. PSTA complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), to provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability that requires accommodation during the application or interview process, please call Human Resources at 727-540-1854. PSTA is a Drug Free/Smoke Free Workplace. PSTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/D/V. Veterans' Preference – Certain servicemembers and veterans, and the spouses and family members of such servicemembers and veterans, receive preference and priority, and certain servicemembers may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements in employment by PSTA, and are encouraged to apply for the positions being filled.