Bus Operator

Description and Essential Functions

Responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a bus in the transport of passengers. Must exercise sound judgment in all instances including but not limited to emergencies. Routinely operates various types of buses. Receives assignments and instructions in specific written and/or oral form.

This job description excludes marginal functions that are incidental to performing the job. Other duties may be assigned:

• Operates various buses in a safe, efficient manner.
• Provides customer service that is helpful to the passenger enabling them to reach their final destination. Such customer service includes but is not limited, to answering questions, providing directions, issuing passenger transfers, and providing information about GMT transit services.
• Arrives for the shift on time, dressed in a complete uniform.
• Checks in with Dispatcher at the beginning and end of each shift.
• Provides physical assistance to disabled passengers when necessary.
• Obeys all applicable traffic laws.
• Greets passengers, monitors fare collection, and helps customers understand fare structures.
• Complies with route schedules notifying the Dispatch office when traffic/weather conditions hinder schedule adherence.
• Communicates verbally in English, so as to be understood, both in person and by two-way radio.
• Has the ability to communicate verbally utilizing courtesy and diplomacy in dealing with the public.
• Uses radio to contact Dispatch office to report problems encountered in a route such as bad road conditions, detours, passenger problems, and emergencies.
• Conducts circle check of the bus before the beginning run, for safety and cleanliness. Reports any discrepancies to the Dispatcher, a supervisor, or reports problem(s) on the Pre-Trip Inspection form.
• Fills out reports such as the Pre-Trip Inspection form, passenger count surveys, and Crash/Incident reports completely, legibly within established timeframes.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:  A high school diploma or GED is preferred. The minimum age for all employees in this position is 21. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Passenger and Air Brake endorsements are required. A clean driving record and the ability to pass standard background checks, a DOT medical physical, and a pre-employment drug screen are required. Familiarity with transportation services and excellent customer service skills are beneficial.

Essential Job Skills and Abilities:  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Essential duties are performed with or without reasonable accommodations.

• Possesses and maintains a valid Commercial Driver's License (class B) with a Passenger (P) endorsement by the first day of employment.
• Possesses a valid Department of Transportation physical examination certification.
• Must be able to safely and effectively drive every bus in GMT’s fleet.
• Must be able to safely reach all controls without assistance and be able to see in all directions while seated in driver's seat.
• Must have sufficient strength and dexterity to operate a variety of switches and levers.
• Must be able to sit for periods up to 6 hours with only a very short break. Have the ability, on a routine basis, to bend, stoop, twist, reach, climb less than 6 stairs, the employee is expected to bend, sit, climb and lift heavy objects up to 35 pounds on a regular basis.

Benefits

• Wage : Starting hourly wage is $30 per hour. After completion of one year, hourly wage increases to $32.03 per hour.
• Schedule: Varies by selection of seniority bid order
• Time Off : 8.67 hours of paid time off accrued per pay period; equivalent to 5+ weeks off.
• Health Insurance : 100% paid health care coverage, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription (NO payroll contribution for your health insurance!). 100% paid premium for Short-Term Disability by GMT. After 1 year of service, 100% paid premium for Long-Term Disability by GMT.
• Savings : GMT offers 457 Retirement Plans. After one year, employees who contribute of 3% will be matched by GMT at 5%. After 10 years, employees who contribute 5% will be matched by GMT at 7%.
• Bonuses : Opportunities for $500 annual Safety Bonus and $150 quarterly Perfect Attendance Bonus. 
• Wellness: Discounted membership to The Edge Sports & Fitness Centers.

This job description is not intended to be a complete statement of the position; it is intended merely to be a guide to the general work to be performed.