COACH/BUS OPERATOR APPRENTICE

About the role

Milwaukee County Transit System is seeking Apprentices for the Coach/Bus Operator position. This is a State-approved, thirteen-month registered apprenticeship program where you will receive classroom and hands-on training from experienced mentors. During the training period, Apprentices will obtain their CDL and learn all aspects of safely operating a passenger bus while providing an essential service to the communities of Milwaukee County. As an Apprentice, you will learn to drive in a safe, efficient, and courteous manner while adhering to a pre-determined route and schedule. Apprentices will exhibit excellent customer service skills and allow passengers to board, travel, and alight at scheduled stops. In addition to intensive training, Apprentices will meet with a mentor who will provide additional guidance to ensure success. Upon successful completion of the program, Apprentices will receive a Coach/Bus Operator Journey worker’s card issued by the State of Wisconsin.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate transit bus in strict compliance with Milwaukee County Transit System policies, guidelines, and procedures, as well as follow all Wisconsin and Federal traffic laws and regulations.
• Collect fares according to existing fare structure, inspect bus passes, and issue valid transfers in a professional, courteous manner.
• Operate the radio, farebox, and other systems within the bus in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Provide public timetables and accurate information to customers.
• Call street locations, transfer points, major intersections, and other requested stops in compliance with ADA guidelines and Company policy.
• Provide accessibility for disabled passengers to board and alight by properly operating all ramps and lifts and safely securing passengers in compliance with ADA guidelines and Company policy.
• Demonstrate excellent customer service skills when interacting with all passengers.
• Perform vehicle inspections before, during, and after scheduled work assignments, including internal and external areas of the bus, and report all defects on proper forms.
• Monitor Special Bulletins and detours daily and make appropriate adjustments as needed.
• Follow Company policy for handling lost articles, including a visual inspection of the bus at the end of the line and at pull-in.
• Complete accident and incident reports accurately and legibly, as necessary.
• Complete fare box, passenger, and bus maintenance defect reports, as necessary.
• Frequently meet with mentor to discuss the position, respective challenges, and successes.
• Conduct self in an appropriate manner as a representative of Milwaukee County Transit System.
• Perform other duties as required.

Requirements

• Proof of employment eligibility/authorization to work in the U.S.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must be able to work any hour of the day, any day of the week.
• Must have a valid Class D Wisconsin driver’s license (non-probationary) for at least one year prior to the date of application.
• Valid CDL Class B License with “P” Endorsement with no Air Brake restriction (or valid CDL permit 14 days prior to start date or transfer date).
• Maximum of six points accrued on motor vehicle record during the 3 years before the start date.
• No revocation or suspension as a result of a moving violation during the last 3 years before the date of hire.
• No OWI/DUI violations, unless an exception may be granted based on circumstances.
• Stable work history with excellent attendance and punctuality record.
• Successfully complete the Bus Operator Training Program.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to operate New Flyer and Gillig Buses.
• Ability to effectively drive a bus, handle emergencies, and use standard defensive driving techniques.
• Ability to adapt to constantly changing operating environments.
• Ability to work unusual hours, including split shifts, weekends, holidays, early mornings, late nights, and overtime as required.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with passengers and staff.
• Ability to de-escalate situations when they arise on the bus.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and common sense when making quick decisions with minimal supervision.
• Ability to read, write, and speak loud, clear, understandable English.
• Ability to read and understand maps and timetables, including determining directions and following a mapped route.
• Ability to keep a timely schedule while in service.
• Knowledge of streets, current bus routes, and stops.
• Knowledge of Bus Operator rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of current fare structures and the corresponding rules and regulations.
• Ability to purchase and wear company uniform.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

• Ability to tolerate varying temperatures including heat, cold, and precipitation while inspecting the exterior of the bus.
• Ability to tolerate varying temperatures including excessive heat and cold while operating the bus.
• Ability to climb stairs, reach above shoulder level, walk, bend, stoop, lift, push, and pull without assistance.
• Ability to operate pedals.
• Ability to sit without discomfort for an extended period of time.
• Ability to fit behind the steering wheel with adequate clearance.
• Ability to work in an environment with dust, exhaust fumes, diesel fuel, oil, grease, and various noise levels.
• Physical requirements are those described as light work, exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly when moving objects.
• Ability to pass a physical with drug screen, including a Pre-placement Functional Test (PPFT) as it relates to the physical requirements of the essential functions of the job.

Benefits

• Paid CDL training (no experience required).
• Weekly pay.
• Cost of Living Adjustments (C.O.L.A.).
• Paid vacation, holidays, personal days, sick leave, funeral leave, and jury duty.
• Medical, dental, and prescription drug insurance.
• Defined pension plan (funded 70% by The Milwaukee County Transit System and 30% by employees).
• Health and wellness initiatives.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• Company-paid life insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Gym membership reimbursement.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Free bus rides for all MCTS active employees and retirees.

Pay

$25.74 per hour (1st year).