Transit Bus Operator (Full-Time)

About the role

The City's Transit Operator, assigned to the CAT Operations Division, performs intermediate semiskilled support work in the operation of large passenger buses in public transportation, daily school transportation, school-related events, charter services, and/or other designated routes. The position reports to a Transit Operations Supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Operates a transit passenger bus or school bus over designated routes and schedules, ensuring safe and timely transportation for passengers.
• Conducts pre- and post-trip inspections of vehicles and related equipment, reporting defects or mechanical issues as required.
• Prepares and maintains trip records, including fares, passenger behavior, mileage, vehicle defects, and condition reports, in compliance with department requirements.
• Aids passengers with boarding and off-loading, including wheelchair accessibility, and announces bus routes and stops.
• Maintains a safe and orderly environment aboard the bus, monitors passenger behavior, and provides accurate route and service information to passengers and the public.
• Communicates with other operators, supervisors, and dispatch via two-way radio or phone to report traffic conditions, vehicle issues, or passenger concerns.
• Operates a City vehicle in the performance of the job duties, follows safety instructions, and attends appropriate safety training.
• Reports accidents or emergencies immediately and completes required reporting information, maintaining composure and ensuring passenger safety during such events.
• Coordinates fueling and basic maintenance of the bus, communicates mechanical concerns, records mileage, and ensures the vehicle is clean and safe throughout each shift in accordance with division requirements.
• Supports departmental goals to provide dependable, efficient, and safe transportation service.
• May be required to work non-traditional work schedules, including weeknights, weekends, and/or holidays.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED AND one year of experience performing customer service tasks, or three years of work experience performing customer service tasks, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Some experience working with children, general public and/or operating a commercial vehicle or similar equipment.
• Possession of a valid Class B Commercial Driver’s License or CDL Learner’s Permit.

Skills

• Thorough knowledge of traffic rules and regulations, including federal, state, and local traffic laws applicable to transit operations.
• General knowledge of Charlottesville’s transit routes and all transit procedures to ensure efficient navigation.
• Familiarity with dispatch and communication procedures, including the use of two-way radios and other equipment.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards, safety precautions, passenger safety protocols and emergency procedures to handle incidents such as accidents, medical emergencies, or vehicle breakdowns.
• Awareness of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements and proficiency in using accessibility equipment.
• Awareness of the use and operations of related software programs specific to the duties of the position.

Qualifications

• Required to successfully pass a pre-employment background check, pre-employment drug screen (DOT), pre-employment DMV driving record review, and industry-specific post-offer physical exam.
• Must have the ability to be contacted and respond based on Departmental guidelines.
• Responsible for appropriate use and maintenance of City equipment, tools, and other resources, including work time.
• Regular and reliable attendance.

Benefits

• This full-time, non-exempt position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 13 paid holidays plus one floating holiday, vacation and sick leave, health insurance with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, gym membership reimbursement, tuition assistance, and professional development opportunities.
• This position is also eligible for the following retirement benefits:
• Defined Benefit Pension Plan: Provides a monthly benefit upon retirement, calculated using a defined formula based on earnings history, years of service, and age. The plan includes a 5-year vesting period and requires an employee contribution of 5% of salary.
• Defined Contribution 401a Plan: Employer makes fixed contributions to an individual account, which are invested, and returns are credited to the account. The account balance is used to provide retirement benefits. Vesting occurs at 33% after one year, 67% after two years, and 100% after three years of service. No salary contribution is required.
• Voluntary 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• Eligibility to purchase prior service credit under the Defined Benefit Plan

Pay

The hiring amount for this position is $24.15 an hour in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement between Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1220 and the City of Charlottesville. The pay rate listed shall apply to individuals hired into this position on or after July 1, 2026.

Schedule

Subject to being called back to work to the City in emergencies or as needed to provide necessary services to the public. Must have the ability to be contacted and respond based on Departmental guidelines. Performs multiple tasks simultaneously. Works under constant interruptions and requests for service. May require dealing with angry, frustrated and/or upset individuals. May work a non-traditional work schedule.