Bus Operator

• A complete 5-year (if applicable) work history with reasons you left previous employers
• Out of state DMV record if you have held a license outside of Oregon in the past 10 years
• Indication that you have the ability to work any shift out of any location (schedules are determined by seniority)
  
  

1. Prepare bus for operation by performing pre-trip safety inspection. Monitor the ongoing condition of the vehicle during operation.
2. Operate a bus on specified route(s) according to established time schedules. Follow District rules and policies, obey traffic laws, and remain knowledgeable regarding any changes in same.
3. Develop and practice defensive driving skills to prevent vehicle or passenger accidents. In the event of an accident or emergency, assist passengers to assure their safety.
4. Monitor and initiate two-way radio calls, reporting any unusual conditions such as accidents, passenger incidents or traffic problems promptly.
5. Provide accurate information to customers regarding fares, routes, schedules and operating rules. Announce major streets, transfer points, and points of interest as required. Maintain courteous and professional demeanor with customers at all times.
6. Assist disabled passengers with boarding and exiting the bus. Secure wheelchair clamps or safety belts as may be required.
7. Provide verbal and written reports to District supervisors and management regarding route, safety, schedule, fare, and operational problems or concerns.
8. Assist in the instruction of student operators for route orientation and further development of the student's operating skills.
9. Prepare required paperwork, such as lost and found tags, accident/incident reports, and bus defect reports.

1. Ability to demonstrate/develop strong customer service/interpersonal skills to provide positive interactions with customers, problem-solving and customer assistance.
2. Ability to work with the public in a variety of situations while performing several tasks simultaneously.
3. Ability to use independent judgment and make decisions without direct supervision.
4. Ability to develop and maintain defensive driving skills and operate a transit bus in a safe and efficient manner, as demonstrated during training period.
5. Ability to read, write and communicate in English.
6. Willingness and ability to work various hours, including early morning and late night shifts split shifts weekends and holidays and split days off.
7. Ability to report to work regularly and on time.
8. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, management and the general public, including those from different backgrounds, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and/or other vulnerable populations.
9. Ability to pass the required post-offer job-related physical and drug screen for this position.

Type of Position / Grade / FLSA
Union, Exempt, Minimum starting wage: $30.23 to $40.29 per hour. Wage will be in accordance with the current Working and Wage Agreement, effective 12/01/2025. Regular full-time or part-time (minimum 25 hours per week).

Selection Process 

Candidates will be selected based at a minimum on the result of:     

1. Application Review/Work Record Review

2. Driving Record Review - Upon submitting your application, you are required to submit a Certified copy of your DMV report from every state (except Oregon) where you have held a driver's license in the past three (3) years. Refer to online instructions to download and attach documents to your application. Documents can be sent to: [email protected].

3. Panel Interview

4. Criminal Background Check

5. Professional Reference Check

6. Drug Screenings

7. Medical Examination

Supplemental Information
Make sure you describe in detail how your education, training and work experience fit with this role. You are encouraged to attach a resume, cover letter, training certificates and/or letters of recommendation with your application. You are permitted five attachments of less than 5MB each.

Internal applicants: Information in your personnel file will not be used in lieu of information requested on your application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

If you are a qualified veteran and would like to apply for veterans' preference points, you will need to reflect your status on the application and attach supporting documentation at the time of application submission.

As applied to the workplace, applicants must be qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If you need accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act for any part of the application process, contact our Human Resources staff at 503-962-7505, or the TTY line at 7-1-1. Note that we require a minimum of two workdays' notice prior to the need for accommodation.

TriMet is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to developing an organization that is reflective of and sensitive to the needs of the diverse community we serve, including veterans, the elderly and people with disabilities.

Have questions regarding our hiring process for bus operators? Please email us at [email protected]!