Bus Operator

Bus Operator

Candidates must attend mandatory, paid, nine week training period. The training schedule will be variable, including days, nights, and weekends.

After training, you will work variable shifts at any time during COTA's service hours. Service hours are as follows: Monday Saturday 3:55 AM 1:47 AM; Sunday 4:04 AM 12:04 AM. Schedules are based on seniority; new operators must be willing to work any shift and day or night as required.

This position is accountable for operating a motor coach and transporting COTA customers in a safe, courteous, and on-time manner. Performs duties that advance COTA's Strategic Plan and reflect the organization's core values of safety, empowerment, accountability, teamwork, and service, and support the mission of Moving Every Life Forward.

As a COTA Operator you will:

• Be a Hero on the Road: Confidently navigate COTA's system, getting riders where they need to go safely, smoothly, and on time.
• Create a Great Rider Experience: Welcome passengers warmly, offer helpful guidance, and handle questions or concerns with patience and professionalism.
• Prioritize Safety for All: Support riders who need extra assistance and help ensure accessible, comfortable travel for every member of our community.
• Stay in Sync: Work closely with operations to manage reroutes, traffic updates, and unexpected situations as they arise.
• Keep Operations Running Strong: Complete pre-trip checks, report mechanical issues promptly, and maintain a clean, reliable bus throughout your shift.
• Show Professional Pride: Uphold our standards for appearance, attendance, and conduct as a representative of our organization.

Onboard Pay: $30.06/hour

Training Pay: $23.00/hour

Top Pay at 5 Years of Service: $40.08/hour

Medical, Vision, Dental, Supplemental and Life Insurance

Paid Parental Leave

Employee Discounts

COTA Bus Pass

Wellness Initiatives

On-Site Chair Massage

On-Site Health Coach

Tuition Reimbursement

Student Loan Repayment Program

Public Pension through OPERS & Ohio Deferred Compensation

COTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on job needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.