BUS OPERATOR IN TRAINING - 0526

About the role

This is an entry-level trainee position intended for individuals with no, to less than a year of, professional driving experience. Individuals already in possession of a South Carolina Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or equivalent CDL from their state of residence will complete a six (6) week training program including both classroom and hands-on training intended to provide the essential skills and knowledge required to operate a transit bus safely and independently upon program completion. Individuals who do not already possess a CDL will undergo additional training for a total of 12 weeks and will be required to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) within three (3) weeks of hire and the CDL license within eight (8) weeks of hire.

Responsibilities

• Obtain CDL License: Complete CDL training program, to include classroom study and hands-on driving instruction. Must test and successfully pass Commercial License Permit (CLP) exam within three (3) weeks of hire. Must test and successfully obtain CDL within eight (8) weeks of hire.
• Complete Bus Operator Training Program: Rules and Regulations: Receive department orientation and review of all department and City policies and procedures. Study and acquire knowledge of all federal and state traffic laws and regulations pertaining to operating a transit vehicle.
• Inspectments, Reports, and Documentation: Learn the requirements of conducting pre and post trip inspections to include making sure all equipment is in proper working order. Learn the guidelines for completing and submitting accident and incident reports.
• Bus and Passenger Safety: Learn requirements for assisting passengers on and off of transit vehicles both during regular and emergency operations. Train in proper operation of wheelchair lifts, as well as, how to safely secure wheelchairs and scooters. Train in emergency response procedures, including emergency roadside evacuations and the use of safety equipment to include fire extinguishers, reflective triangles, and first aid kits. Learn emergency management techniques for extraordinary circumstances one may encounter in the course of performing job functions including, collisions, mechanical failures, passenger emergencies, threats of violence, and natural disasters.
• Customer Service: Review current fare structure and bus pass programs. Receive hands-on training in the utilization and troubleshooting of cash and electronic fare collection systems. Learn de-escalation techniques for passengers behaving in an offensive or destructive manner. Receive training in tactful and courteous interactions with passengers and the public.
• Route Familiarization: Develop and maintain working knowledge of city streets, current bus routes and stops within the County. Receive hands-on training in effectively utilizing the Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) system to program destination signs, enable on-board stop announcements, and capture on-time performance data, utilizing paddles, manifests and other information, to follow routes and meet time points. Utilize communication system to contact dispatch and report current position and conditions, receive accident and incident information, and coordinate detours.
• Driving Instruction: Learn and perform defensive driving techniques for urban and rural driving that include, but are not limited to, mirror usage and scanning techniques, monitoring blind spots, proper following distance, and safe acceleration and braking techniques. Learn and perform advanced maneuver techniques for driving a Class B transit vehicle that include turning, parallel parking, alley docking, off-set backing, and straight-line backing. Receive hands-on training in operating transit vehicles in a variety of weather and road conditions.
• Operate Bus on Regularly Scheduled Route(s): Under supervision, fully operate passenger bus on regularly scheduled routes through light to heavy City traffic, for the purpose of carrying passengers in a safe manner and in accordance with the City, county, state, and federal laws, as well as City rules and policies. In performance of all Bus Operator essential functions, demonstrate proficiency and understanding of all training material. Collect fares, assist Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) passengers as needed while safely performing operation procedures. Monitor bus, weather conditions, and safety of passengers. Actively participate in the reporting of safety issues and concerns that are observed during the course of essential job functions.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must have at least six (6) months of work experience involving customer service or public contact.
• Must obtain a DOT Medical Examiners Certificate prior to starting the program, and retain for duration of employment.
• Motor vehicle record must meet the standards of City policy.
• Preferred Qualifications: Prior professional driving experience. Driver's License Requirements: Valid South Carolina Class D Driver's License at hire. Valid South Carolina Class B Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) within three (3) weeks of hire or the equivalent CLP from their state of residence. Valid South Carolina Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsement within eight (8) weeks of hire or the equivalent CDL from their state of residence.