Transit Operator

Salary: $19.51 - $29.26 Hourly
Location : Bradenton, FL
Job Type: Full-Time (Hourly)
Job Number: 26-00321
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 07/16/2026
Closing Date: 9/10/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Max Number of Applicants: 50


General Information
Work Location: 2411 Tallevast Road, Sarasota, Florida 34243
Work Hours: Sunday - Saturday, shifts vary from 4:30 am - 11:30 pm

Expected Starting Hourly Range: $19.51 - $24.38
NOTE: This job will close when 50 applications have been received, which may be sooner than the listed closing date.
This classification performs skilled vehicle operation work in transporting citizens. Work involves responsibility for safe and efficient transportation of the general public, physically handicapped, and/or senior citizens, either on an assigned route in the County or to and from different locations in and around the Manatee County Region. Work requires dealing with passengers in a pleasant and courteous manner, providing information about the route or destination, operating a two-way radio according to FCC standards, and driving safely in a variety of weather conditions.

Note: Pre-Employment physical and level two background required. Medical Examination Certificate for Bus Transit System Driver required. To be employed as a Transit Operator, must meet the physical qualifications to operate a bus according to the stated requirements (local and/or state and/or federal).

Employment screenings, as outlined in the Personnel Policy, Rules, and Procedures Manual, will be conducted in compliance with applicable federal and Florida Laws.
Working Conditions
The work environment may include exposure to high noise levels while performing certain essential job functions. The position requires the ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds independently and up to 100 pounds with assistance, with or without reasonable accommodation. Work may involve strenuous physical activity under varying climatic conditions and in both indoor and outdoor environments.

This is a safety-sensitive position. Employment and continued employment with Manatee County Government is contingent upon passing pre-employment and employment screenings identified in the Personnel Policy, Rules, and Procedures Manual. An applicant/employee who fails to pass a drug/alcohol screening, shall be disqualified from employment in any class for a period of three (3) years.

Job Description
Essential Functions
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

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.


May be required to work weekends/Holidays and subject to overtime.

Performs other related duties as assigned, including participation in emergency or disaster response activities, as required and consistent with the employee's qualifications, essential job functions, and appliable federal and Florida law.
Minimum Qualifications
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, prior to receiving a Conditional Offer of Employment.

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.

More
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Defensive driving skills desired.

Knowledge of Florida traffic laws.

Knowledge of Manatee County streets and highways.

Skilled in safe driving techniques.

Excellent interpersonal relations.

Ability to adhere to assigned routes and time schedules.

Ability to comply with attendance and tardiness work rules.

Ability 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.

Simple arithmetic skills.

Able to read, write legibly, speak effectively, and understand verbal/written instructions.
Veterans Preference

In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.

EEO/ADA Statement

Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at View phone number on click.appcast.io.

Drug-Free Workplace

Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.

Emergency Response/Recovery Activities

All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.
Full Time Positions

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.
• Five (5) free visits annually for employees and covered family members.

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)
• Pharmacy 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
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• 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
• Personal Sick Leave
• Family Sick Leave
• Sick Leave Bank (Donated Hours)
• Professional Medical Appointment Leave
• Bereavement Leave
• Military Leave
• Military Training Leave
• FMLA

Vacation Award: Applies to employees regularly scheduled to work 8 hours per day/40 hours per week.
Years of Service Vacation Days
0-5 16.25 days
6-10 19.50 days
11+ 22.75 days

• Eligible employees may earn an additional 2 days of vacation through participation in the Manatee Thrives program

Insurance:

• Award-winning Health Plan with deductibles as low as $0.
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Prescription Insurance
• Life Insurance (6 times salary at low cost)
• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance

Retirement:

• Florida Retirement System (FRS) with Pension Plan and Investment Plan options.
• 457b Tax Deferred and ROTH account options through Voya.
• FRS Webinars
• Free financial guidance with licensed, non-commissioned financial planner

Career Wellness:

• Professional Leadership Programs
• Instructor-Led and eLearning Training
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Career Counseling
• Toastmasters
• Networking Membership (Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance)
• Employee Recognition Programs with monetary and time-off awards

Education Benefits:

• Tuition Reimbursement eligible after six (6) months of Public Service, including GED reimbursement.
• Continuing Education support through Training/Seminars and Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladder.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Flexible Spending Account:

• Options for Health Care and Dependent Care Spending Accounts providing pre-tax savings.

Permanent Part Time - 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.
Miscellaneous Benefits:
• Workers' Compensation
• Training/Seminars
• Fitness Center Access for employee only
• FRS options
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• 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
01



VERY IMPORTANT - When answering supplemental questions about experience, education or certification, please be sure the information is reflected in the Education, Work Experience and Certificates and Licenses sections of your application.


Must include Monthly Salary, Name of Employer, Location, Phone Number and Duties for each employer in Work Experience.
Note: "See Resume" is not acceptable.


Identify all gaps not related to medical reasons.

• I acknowledge the above statement

02


If you are claiming Veteran's Preference, please check category of eligibility

• A disabled veteran who is eligible for receiving compensation under public law administered by Department of Veteran's Affairs and Department of Defense
• The spouse of a veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of total and permanent service-connected disability, or spouse of a veteran missing in action, captured or forcefully detained by a foreign power
• A wartime veteran who has served at least 1 day during a wartime period (active duty for training may not be eligible)
• An un-remarried widow or widower of a Veteran who died of a service-connected disability
• The mother, father, legal guardian, or un-remarried widow or widower of a service member who died as a result of military service under combat-related conditions as verified by the U.S. Department of Defense
• A current member of any reserve component for the United States Armed Forces or the Florida National Guard
• A veteran with a "Honorable" discharge (Active duty for training may not be allowed for eligibility)
• Not claiming Veteran's Preference

03


Which level of education have you achieved?

• No high school equivalency
• High school graduate/equivalent
• Associates degree
• Bachelors degree
• Masters degree

04


I acknowledge that I have or must obtain a Florida Commercial Driver License (CDL) or permit, Class B with Passenger and Air Brake Endorsements prior to receiving a Conditional Offer of Employment from Manatee County Board of County Commissioners.

• I acknowledge
• I do not acknowledge

05


Do you have either five (5) years of normal driving experience or two (2) years of commercial driving experience?

• Yes
• No

06


Are you able to pass the CDL Skills Test within six weeks with training provided?

• Yes
• No

07


Must successfully pass all tests and written examinations given.

• Acknowledged
• Declined

08


Can you successfully pass a DOT physical and pass a Level 2 background check?

• Yes
• No

09


Are you at least 21 years of age?

• Yes
• No

10


What previous roles have you held that you believe qualify you for this position?
Required Question