1

Bus Operators Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

BUS OPERATOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$33.47/hr

Metro Rule Book for Bus Operators and Standard Operations Procedures * Metro Issued Route and Schedule Material * Basic money and time concepts Skill in (defined as the proficient manual, verbal, or ...

BUS OPERATOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28.81 - $34.93/hr

Metro Rule Book for Bus Operators and Standard Operations Procedures * Metro Issued Route and Schedule Material * Basic money and time concepts Skill in (defined as the proficient manual, verbal, or ...

Bus Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$1.0K/wk

SacRT will reimburse operators for the DMV fees required to obtain the DMV Commercial Learner ... skilled bus operators. SacRT is offering an Operator Hiring Incentive Program to newly hired ...

Description Vivalon Rides is Hiring Shuttle Bus Operators in Solano County! Vivalon is a Marin-based nonprofit that has been serving the community for over 70 years. Recognized 10 times as one of the ...

Bus Operator

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $26/hr

RATP Dev USA is seeking dependable and customer-focused Bus Drivers to join our transportation team in Lompoc, California. Bus Drivers are responsible for safely operating transit vehicles, providing ...

Bus Operator

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$29.17 - $36.54/hr

Bus Operator The Bus Operator is responsible for the safe operation of a passenger bus on assigned routes and schedules. The position requires an individual with a courteous and positive attitude ...

Bus Operator

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $26/hr

Bus Drivers are responsible for safely operating transit vehicles, providing excellent customer service, following scheduled routes, and ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely and on ...

Bus Operator

Encino, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

AC Transit Bus Operator AC Transit is actively seeking courteous, customer service-oriented and dependable individuals to safely operate our buses and provide the highest quality of service to our ...

Bus Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$1.0K/wk

Operates coach/bus; follows safe, defensive driving practices; follows District operating policies ... SacRT will reimburse operators for the DMV fees required to obtain the DMV Commercial Learner ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Bus Operators information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$29

How much do bus operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operators in California is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Bus Operators vs Bus Drivers?

AspectBus OperatorsBus Drivers
Required CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsementCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, school buses, tour busesPublic transit, school buses, tour buses
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, private bus companiesTransit agencies, private bus companies
Job FocusOperating buses, ensuring passenger safety, route adherenceOperating buses, ensuring passenger safety, route adherence

Bus Operators and Bus Drivers often share similar roles, credentials, and work environments. Both require a CDL with passenger endorsements and work in transit or private bus services. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Bus Operator' is often used in public transit agencies, emphasizing the operational aspect, while 'Bus Driver' is a more general term. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right opportunities in the transit industry.

How hard is it to become a bus operator?

Becoming a bus operator typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and completion of a commercial driver's license (CDL) training program. Candidates often need to pass background checks, medical exams, and a skills test; some employers also require a high school diploma or equivalent. The process can take several weeks to months depending on training availability and certification requirements.

How to become a bus operator?

To become a bus operator, candidates typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement, a clean driving record, and a background check. Training programs are often provided by transit agencies, and applicants must pass written and road tests to qualify for the position.

Is being a bus operator a stressful job?

Bus operators often experience stress due to managing traffic, adhering to schedules, and ensuring passenger safety. The job requires good communication skills, focus, and the ability to handle difficult situations calmly, which can contribute to job-related stress.

What cities in California are hiring for Bus Operators jobs?

Cities in California with the most Bus Operators job openings:

Infographic showing various Bus Operators job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 76% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $46,004 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

BUS OPERATOR

Los Angeles, CA • On-site


Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority
501 - 1,000 employees

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 99 rated public transport

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$33.47/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Bus Operator (Part-time)

Metro's mission is to provide a world-class transportation system that enhances the quality of life for all who live, work, and play within LA County.

Under direct supervision, operates public transit buses, transports passengers, provides customer service, and performs safety inspections of bus equipment to assure their safe, efficient, and on-time operation. Differs from Bus Operator (Full-time) in that Bus Operator (Part-time) works less than 40 hours per week. Salary Range: You'll earn $27.58/hour, plus room to grow (top rate for part-time is $33.47/hour after 5+ years) Metro is a 24-hour / 7 day a week operation. You may be assigned to any Metro Operating Division within L.A. County and be assigned to any shift. This bulletin is posted to establish an Eligibility List for both part-time and full-time positions.

Examples of Duties
  • Collects and counts fares, and transports passengers on public transit buses
  • Knowledgeable about routes, transfer points, and fare structures for all lines assigned divisions
  • Performs a complete pre-pull-out inspection of bus, safety checks equipment, and informs maintenance when adjustments or repairs are necessary; at completion of assignment
  • Refers to and implements route maps, time schedules, and instructions for pull-outs, line service, pull-ins, and off-route trips
  • Provides schedule, route, and fare information to passengers seeking assistance
  • Operates wheelchair ramp and assists passengers with disabilities in boarding, riding, and alighting in a safe manner, which may include pushing a wheelchair up and down the ramp
  • Secures wheelchairs of passengers with disabilities and clearly communicates the actions being taken
  • Receives and transmits two-way radio messages involving accidents, emergencies, or criminal activities
  • If promoted to Line Instructor/Mentor, instructs bus operator student trainees on all job duties and responsibilities
  • Reports hazardous or dangerous conditions along bus route and at passenger loading zones, including such hazards as unusual traffic, road conditions, obstructions, construction, and potential criminal activity; alters route if required and approved
  • Maintains an acceptable driving record and complies with all state and local traffic regulations and Metro policies and procedures
  • Completes any reports as necessary or requested by division management

May be required to perform other related job duties

Minimum Qualifications

A combination of education and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position. Additional experience, as outlined below, may be substituted for required education on a year-for-year basis. A typical combination includes:

  • Education None Required
  • Experience None Required
  • Certification/Licenses/Special Requirements Minimum of 21 years of age Valid California Class C Driver License Possess a valid U.S. driver license for at least two years Satisfactory driving record for the past five years as verified by a K-4 DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) printout Must be able to obtain a valid California Class B Driver License with P (Passenger) endorsement before completion of training Valid California Verification of Transit Training (VTT) Card Valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) Must pass Metro Bus Operator course at Operations Central Instruction (OCI) Positions in this job classification are considered safety-sensitive and subject to drug and alcohol testing, including random testing, under Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations

Important Notice for Applicants All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States and eligible to obtain and maintain a California Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B with Passenger endorsement. Applicants must provide valid documentation verifying identity and work authorization in accordance with federal law. Please note: CDL validity may be limited to the duration of your work authorization. Employees must maintain valid work authorization and CDL status throughout employment.

For additional information please visit the DMV website or call the DMV Hotline 916-306-5153.

Essential Knowledge

Knowledge of (defined as a learned body of information that is required for and applied in the performance of job tasks) Vehicle operations and on-bus technology State and local traffic laws, ordinances, and regulations involved in the operation of transit vehicles Vehicle safety rules, regulations, policies, and procedures Metro Rule Book for Bus Operators and Standard Operations Procedures Metro Issued Route and Schedule Material Basic money and time concepts Skill in (defined as the proficient manual, verbal, or mental utilization of data, people, or things) Operating Metro vehicles and equipment safely and efficiently Working independently in a highly structured environment Recognizing existing or potential mechanical defects and problems Communicating effectively orally and in writing Ability to (defined as a present competence to perform an observable behavior or produce an observable result) Exercise sound judgment in stressful situations within scope of responsibility Communicate courteously and effectively with other employees and the general public Push, pull, and secure wheelchairs up to 275 pounds Lift up to 35 pounds Understand and follow detailed oral and written instructions Follow safety rules and ensure passengers are safe Read, write, speak, and understand English Special Conditions This job specification is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or requirements The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job Metro provides reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions Contributes to ensuring that the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policies and programs of Metro are carried out Working Conditions Work with regular exposure to odors or fumes Work on slippery or uneven surfaces Exposure to moving machinery and/or vehicles Exposure to physical and verbal abuse by clients/customers and/or general public Exposure to outdoor weather including extreme heat, cold, dampness and/or humidity Extensive safety training and/or use of protective devices and personal protective gear Work irregular hours, split shifts, weekends, holidays, or 24-hour-a-day on-call assignments Work after designated regular hours in case of special assignments or emergencies Sitting for long periods of time Operate a telephone or other telecommunications device and communicate through the medium Standing Bending or twisting at the neck, waist and/or knees Pushing and/or pulling Moderate lifting or carrying 26-50 lbs. Driving and/or operating heavy equipment Using equipment requiring high hand and finger dexterity Operating foot pedals Communicating through speech in the English language required

Metro is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, or disability. Learn more about Metro's Equal Employment Opportunity Program.

Selection Procedure Applicants who best meet job-related qualifications will be invited to participate in the examination process that may consist of any combination of written, performance, or oral appraisal to further evaluate job-related experience, knowledge, skills and abilities.

Application Procedure To apply, visit Metro's website at www.metro.net and complete an online Employment Application. Computers are available to complete online Employment Applications at the following Metro locations: METRO Headquarters, Employment Office One Gateway Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012 Open: Monday through Friday, 8am-4pm (Closed Sat & Sun) Metro Talent Hub 8501 S. Evermont Place Los Angeles, CA 90044 Open: Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm (Closed Sat & Sun) East Los Angeles Customer Center 4501 B Whittier Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90022 Open: Tuesday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm (Closed Sun & Mon) Wilshire/Vermont Customer Center 3183 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 174 Los Angeles, CA 90010 Open: Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm (Closed Sat & Sun) Rosa Parks Customer Center Willowbrook/Rosa Parks Station 11720 Wilmington Ave Los Angeles, CA 90059 Open: Monday through Friday, 6am to 6:30pm (Closed Sat & Sun) Telephone: (213) 922-6217 or persons with hearing or speech impairments can use California Relay Service 711 to contact Metro. All completed online Employment Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on the closing date. Late applications will not be considered.

*Open to the public and all Metro employees

This job bulletin is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Employees may be required to perform other related job duties.



What Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom