Training Instructor

Instructs, conducts, and develops training programs for Bus Operator Trainees, Bus Operators, and other designated METRO employees. Promotes safe operations and standardized training to build a better‑trained workforce and enhances departmental productivity.

Responsibilities

• Conduct classroom training in bus operations, defensive driving, passenger relations, CDL training, Learning Management Systems (LMS), computer‑based training, simulators, and related skills to ensure safe service delivery.
• Observe, evaluate, and monitor bus operators/trainees’ performance on the bus and in the classroom to ensure mastery of safe operating techniques.
• Track training and safety records for basic, recertification, special, and new‑equipment training.
• Make recommendations for continued progress (additional training, graduation, or elimination) throughout the training process.
• Train department operating personnel and other employees on Authority and departmental policies, procedures, and rules as defined by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
• Retrain personnel returning to work after a leave of absence or other work‑related issues.
• Counsel bus operators, prepare written performance documents, and cite operators for rule and SOP violations.
• Operate revenue and non‑revenue vehicles in the yard, on streets, highways, or during emergencies when required.
• Perform physical performance evaluations for new bus operator candidates to assess compatibility.
• Assist in curriculum development and revision, including special training programs for new bus equipment, ADA sensitivity/wheelchair accessibility, and federal or local CDL regulations.
• Maintain cross‑training on various class subjects within the Training division.
• Conduct undercover surveillance when necessary to verify customer complaints or reports regarding operator driving performance or behavior.
• Provide excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Apply Safety Management System (SMS) methods and support the agency’s Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).
• Promote safety awareness and follow procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Perform other job‑related duties as assigned.

Pay

Pay Range: $63,200 – $82,800

Education

High school diploma or GED required; associate degree preferred.

Experience

• Minimum three (3) years of experience as a Bus Operator.
• At least one (1) year of relief training and/or supervisory experience.
• Experience making formal presentations.
• In the 24 months prior to applying: no preventable accidents; internal applicants must also have no more than two reprimands, no more than three misses, no suspensions, and no violations of Article 500 of the Labor Agreement.

Knowledge and Skills

• Valid Texas Commercial Driver’s License with passenger endorsement.
• Compliance with METRO motor‑vehicle‑record requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Working knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas enforces a zero‑tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All applicants will undergo drug testing before employment and may be subject to additional testing throughout employment, in accordance with Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations for safety‑sensitive positions.