Transit Operator

About the role

This classification performs skilled vehicle operation work in transporting citizens, senior citizens, and/or the physically handicapped, either on an assigned route in the County or to and from different locations in and around the Manatee County Region.

Responsibilities

• Applies knowledge of applicable traffic laws and regulations;
• Applies knowledge of, or quickly learns and applies knowledge of, the geography of the County and applicable bus routes;
• Operates a county passenger bus or van in transporting citizens, senior citizens, and/or the physically handicapped, on an assigned route, according to an assigned time schedule, while safely complying with traffic regulations;
• Observes that correct fare is dropped in fare box; issues transfers; provides information to passengers including connecting schedules, routes and transfer points; assists passengers in determining how to get to desired destination; assists riders to enter and exit vehicle and secures wheelchairs in accordance with proper safety standards;
• Records required operating data on daily trip record sheets such as mileage, hours of operation, fare box readings, and number of passengers by category; records total passenger count over route for specified period; prepares reports and maintains records as required;
• Ensures passenger safety by enforcing rules of conduct and operation; checks bus for lost items and reports same;
• Performs visual vehicle inspections and operational safety checks of assigned vehicle; keeps alert for mechanical or other equipment problems requiring attention; reports traffic hazards, accidents and other conditions requiring attention;
• Regulates heating, lighting, and ventilating systems for passenger comfort;
• Reports delays or accidents to dispatcher;
• Communicates clearly, effectively and tactfully, orally and in writing;
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with co-workers, dispatchers, supervisors, clients, etc.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent required;
• Five (5) years driving experience or two (2) years Commercial Driving Experience;
• Class "B" Commercial Driver's License with passenger endorsement and air brakes endorsement, or Class "B" CDL permit with passenger and air brake endorsements, by effective date of employment required;
• Must be able to pass the CDL skills Test within six weeks with training provided;
• Must successfully pass all tests and written examinations given;
• Must successfully pass a DOT physical and pass a Level 2 background check;
• Must be at least 21 years old.

Qualifications

• Defensive driving skills desired;
• Knowledge of Florida traffic laws;
• Knowledge of Manatee County streets and highways;
• Skilled in safe driving techniques;
• Excellent interpersonal relations;
• Able to adhere to assigned routes and time schedules;
• Able to comply with attendance and tardiness work rules;
• Able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing;
• Able to interact courteously and effectively with the public;
• Able to develop and maintain good working relationships with fellow employees.

Skills

• Simple arithmetic skills;
• Able to read, write legibly, speak effectively, and understand verbal/written instructions.

Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): ComPsych – offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, legal, and work/life balance support.
• LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.
• Wellbeing Benefits: Wellness/Health Coaches (5 Free per year) On-site Fitness Centers for you and your dependents with 24/7 access Personal Training (5 Free per year) Pharamcy Technician Group Fitness Classes Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Management Diabetes Care Program Registered Dietician (5 Free per year) Massages with licensed therapist (small copay)
• Miscellaneous Benefits: Workers’ Compensation Training/Seminars Fitness Center Access for employee only FRS options Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladder Government employee discounts at many retailers and attractions Access to Manatee County Library Services (books, digital services, tools, museum passes).
• Paid Time Off: 12 Paid Holidays including New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Three (3) Personal Holidays Paid Time Off and Leaves of Absence are based on an 8 hrs./day 80/hrs. per pay-period basis, any work schedule less that this will be earned on a pro-rated basis

Pay

Expected Starting Hourly Range: $19.51 - $24.38

Schedule

Work Hours: Sunday - Saturday, shifts vary from 4:30 am - 11:30 pm