Bus Operator

Basic Function

The Bus Operator will be trained in a classroom and on the job environment to operate METRO buses to transport passengers over specified routes to local or distant points according to time schedules, charters, and special services.  The Bus Operator is expected to interact with passengers in a professional, courteous and helpful manner as well as perform pre-trip inspections of assigned bus.  The Bus Operator will be required to clearly understand the requirements for the job as stated on this job description, job posting, Labor Agreement, Employee Performance Code and Work Rules.  Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Upon completion of training the new hire full-time Bus Operator will report to one of METRO’s five (5) Bus Operating Facilities based upon the staffing needs of the facilities at the time of graduation.  Full-Time Bus Operators will remain at the assigned facility for six (6) months unless there is a general sign-up.  Full-Time Bus Operator shifts vary and may work holidays, weekends and/or nights.
• Operates METRO buses to transport passengers safely and courteously over specified routes to local or distant points according to time schedules, and special services in accordance with METRO’s policies and procedures.
• Picks up Bus Operator supplies (i.e., route signs, defect cards, etc.) before starting scheduled and unscheduled work assignments.
• Inspects METRO bus equipment including wheelchair ramp or lift, bus radio system for defects and makes records of any defects on defect cards.  Reports any malfunctions of the bus radio system to Bus Control.
• Deposits all temporary route signs, passenger count cards, defect cards, communication devices, schedules, public guides, etc. in proper receptacles.
• Follows parking instructions and procedures upon returning Authority vehicles to garage facility, relief point and other designated locations.
• Signs on and off the fare box, radio and other equipment as needed.
• Complies with ADA requirements in delivering services.
• Regulates heating, lighting and ventilating systems for passenger comfort.
• Complies with local traffic regulations.
• Follows procedures for the collection and processing of fares and counting passengers.
• Reports and properly follows up on all accidents or unusual incidents in, on, or near METRO buses.
• Adheres to and remains in compliance with METRO’s Uniform Policy.
• Maintains DOT card as required by METRO.
• Adheres to the Labor Agreement, and the Employee Performance Code and Work Rules.
• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Applies Safety Management Systems (SMS) methods and principles in daily job routine and supports all aspects of the agency’s Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures in an effort to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Performs other job-related duties as required. 

Education Requirement

High School Diploma or GED is required or must be obtained within two (2) years of hire date.

Years & Experience Required

A minimum of three (3) years of general work experience which includes driving experience; customer service  experience is required.  A minimum of two (2) years of continued employment in a direct public contact position is preferred. Work history will be verified in the states and county that the applicant has lived or worked.

Knowledge & Skills Required

Applicants must successfully complete and pass: a pre-employment performance evaluation, Department of Transportation (DOT) physical, drug/alcohol screen, background investigation and pre-employment assessments and tests.  A current CDL is preferred and must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas Driver’s License and subsequently obtain and maintain a TX Class B CDL.  Bilingual ability is a plus. 

Other:   Applicants must be a minimum of 21 years of age and have been a valid licensed driver for at least three (3) years. 

Disqualifying Criteria: Two or more DUI or DWI convictions with no time limit; any DUI or DWI convictions within the preceding three (3) years; invalid, suspended, or revoked drivers’ license; or more than two (2) moving violations in   the past three (3) years.  No job-related felony/misdemeanors.  Criminal convictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and the job relatedness is determined by METRO.  METRO will not accept former TransDev employees that have been separated from TransDev less than 12 months. 

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.