Bus Operator

Minimum Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Must have a valid Ohio Driver's License and be able to obtain/maintain a Commercial Driver's License.
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.).
• Must have proof of U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the U.S.
• Must have one year's experience in a public contact job, preferably as a salesclerk, waiter/waitress, customer service, etc.
• Must demonstrate a pattern of consistent employment with reasonable job tenure, and minimal unexplained employment gaps.
• Must have reliable transportation.
• Must meet background check requirements.
• Must satisfactorily complete all pre-employment testing, including a drug screen.
• Must meet the following requirements of the position:
  • Availability for shifts at non-standard hours.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs.
  • Ability to sit for long periods without discomfort.
  • Ability to bend, squat, reach, and assist passengers on and off the vehicle.
• Must verify the past three (3) year's driving record and meet the following criteria:
  • No more than one moving violation within 1 year.
  • No more than 2 moving violations in last 3 years.
  • No revocation/suspension in last 3 years.
  • No OMVI or DUI in last 3 years.
  • No hit and skips in last 3 years.
  • No ACDA (Assured Clear Distance Accident) in last 3 years.
• Must be able to work mandatory overtime to include, but not limited to, early mornings, evenings, and weekends.
• English proficiency.
• Familiarity with state traffic laws.
• Skills with technology, following instructions, communication, map-reading, time-telling.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.

About the role

Candidates must attend mandatory, paid, 9 (nine) week training period. The training schedule will be variable, including days, nights, and weekends. After training, you will work variable shifts at any time during COTA's service hours. Schedules are based on seniority; new operators must be willing to work any shift and day or night as required.

Responsibilities

• Operate a motor coach and transport COTA customers in a safe, courteous, and on-time manner.
• Perform duties that advance COTA's Strategic Plan and reflect the organization's core values of safety, empowerment, accountability, teamwork, and service, and support the mission of Moving Every Life Forward.
• Confidently navigate COTA's system, getting riders where they need to go safely, smoothly, and on time.
• Welcome passengers warmly, offer helpful guidance, and handle questions or concerns with patience and professionalism.
• Support riders who need extra assistance and help ensure accessible, comfortable travel for every member of our community.
• Work closely with operations to manage reroutes, traffic updates, and unexpected situations as they arise.
• Complete pre-trip checks, report mechanical issues promptly, and maintain a clean, reliable bus throughout your shift.
• Uphold standards for appearance, attendance, and conduct as a representative of the organization.

Pay

• Onboard Pay: $30.06/hour
• Training Pay: $23.00/hour
• Top Pay at 5 Years of Service: $40.08/hour

Benefits

• Medical, Vision, Dental, Supplemental and Life Insurance
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Discounts
• COTA Bus Pass
• Wellness Initiatives
• On-Site Chair Massage
• On-Site Health Coach
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Student Loan Repayment Program
• Public Pension through OPERS & Ohio Deferred Compensation