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Coach Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Overview Herzog Transit Services, Inc. is currently seeking Streetcar Operators in Santa Ana, CA to join our team. The pay rate for this position is $25.00 per hour. Duties and Responsibilities:

Showing results 21-40

Coach Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$23

$30

How much do coach operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for coach operator in California is $23.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coach operator?

Coach operators are professional drivers who operate large passenger vehicles, such as buses or coaches, to transport people over short or long distances. They are responsible for the safety and comfort of their passengers, following scheduled routes, maintaining the cleanliness of the vehicle, and sometimes assisting with luggage. Coach operators may work for public transit agencies, private charter companies, or tour operators, and often interact with customers to provide information or assistance during trips.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coach operator?

To thrive as a Coach Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and vehicle operation. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and ticketing software is typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and problem-solving abilities help operators handle passengers and unexpected situations smoothly. These skills ensure safe, efficient transportation and positive passenger experiences, which are crucial for the role's success.

What are some common challenges faced by coach operators during long-distance routes, and how can they be managed?

Coach Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining alertness during extended shifts, managing diverse passenger needs, and adapting to changing road or weather conditions. To address these, operators are trained in fatigue management, customer service, and safe driving practices. Regular breaks, effective communication with dispatch, and route planning play key roles in ensuring both passenger safety and operator well-being.

What is the difference between Coach Operator vs Bus Driver?

AspectCoach OperatorBus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCDL, passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentLong-distance travel, charter services, toursPublic transit, school buses, urban routes
Employer & IndustryTour companies, charter services, private transportationPublic transit agencies, schools, transit authorities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

In summary, Coach Operators and Bus Drivers both require CDL licenses and often work with passenger endorsements. Coach Operators typically handle long-distance, charter, or tour services in private or specialized transportation settings, while Bus Drivers usually operate urban, school, or public transit buses. The main difference lies in their work environment and the type of service provided.

How much do coach operators make?

Coach operators typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many also receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, and must hold a valid commercial driver's license (CDL).

What cities in California are hiring for Coach Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Coach Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Coach Operator jobs in CA?

For Coach Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Coach Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 46% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,226 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Streetcar Operator- OCSC

Herzog

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 11 days ago


Herzog rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

116th of 283 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview

Herzog Transit Services, Inc. is currently seeking Streetcar Operators in Santa Ana, CA to join our team.

The pay rate for this position is $25.00 per hour.

Duties and Responsibilities:

*This is a non-exhaustive overview of the job duties for this position.

  • This position is responsible for the operation of the streetcar in a safe and efficient manner within established rules, schedules, regulations, procedures and providing professional and courteous customer service.
  • Reports for duty at the MSF or any other designated location along the system in the prescribed uniform with a neat and well-groomed appearance.
  • Make station and other on-board PA announcements as required.
  • New hires should expect to work late nights, weekends and holidays exclusively as seniority dictates.
  • May be required to work on an “on-call” basis.
  • New hires must successfully complete HTSI provided training programs for operating rules, track access, standard operating procedures, safety, vehicle operations, minor troubleshooting, and basic customer service.
  • May work with vehicle manufacturer to provide movement of vehicles within the yard and shop area and on the mainline or mainline extension(s) for vehicle burn-in and pre-revenue operations training.
  • Act as incident commander as needed or until relieved.
  • Informs Operations Control Center of operating status of equipment and any observed defects.
  • Performs pre-departure inspection in accordance with established procedures for streetcar preparation for service and reports any observations to supervisory staff.
  • Observes and immediately reports to supervisory staff all operational hazards.
  • Observes and reports defects along the alignment.
  • Receives and transmits messages by hand-held or train-based two-way radio for operation.
  • Provides manual on-board announcements at regular intervals informing passengers of incidents that cause delays to streetcar movement.
  • Prepares daily trip reports and defect reports upon completion of duty.
  • Participate in the hazard identification and resolution process.
  • Regular and consistent engagement, participation and promotion of Herzog’s Culture and its essential behaviors are a requirement for this position.
  • Regular and predictable attendance and punctuality are a requirement for this position.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be a minimum of 21 years of age.
  • Rail Transit Operator experience is considered a plus.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with a good driving record for the past 5 years.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

  • Subject to pre-employment background check and motor vehicle report review.
  • Maintain a valid driver’s license and endorsements as required per position.
  • Pass pre-employment DOT physical, medical evaluation, and drug screen due to the safety sensitive nature of this position.
    • This position requires you to pass and maintain a DOT medical evaluation to drive a Herzog commercial vehicle. 
  • Successfully complete and maintain any required safety certification and testing on an annual basis.


Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described below must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential job functions of this role. This position will be physically demanding at times.  This is a non-exhaustive overview of the physical requirements of this job.

  • Able to walk on uneven surfaces up to one-half mile.
  • Maintain balance for an extended period of time while train is in motion.
  • Must be able to be aware of surroundings and follow verbal commands while being exposed to moderately loud noises on a daily basis.
  • Work in a confined access/space environment with a width of 24 inches.
  • Must be able to adapt to various temperature extremes including but not limited to heat, cold, moisture and wind.
  • Regularly sit and stand for an extended period of time.
  • Able to tolerate repetitive movements: bending and overhead reaching.
  • Regularly to push/pull a force of 25 pounds.
  • Regularly ascend/descend a platform with a height of up to 18 inches from the floor.
  • Must successfully pass color/vision examinations as required by the position.
  • Able to work in a safety sensitive work environment.
  • Must successfully pass color/vision examinations as required by the position.
  • Must be able to hear and distinguish auditory signals as required by the position.


Safety:

  • Herzog is nationally recognized for its excellent corporate safety record which results from all employees at all levels, in all positions adhering to established policies and procedures. Reporting any and all safety violations to your immediate supervisor is a prerequisite for continued employment. Safety diligence by all results in a safe work environment for all.


Benefits:

  • Herzog offers a robust benefits package including medical and dental coverage. The plans are specific to projects and locations.


Why Herzog:

Founded in 1969, Herzog is headquartered in St. Joseph, Missouri, with a satellite office in Fort Worth, Texas.


Over the course of our 50+ year history, Herzog has become a national leader in the construction, operations and maintenance of commuter rail, light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects. 

We believe our culture is at the heart of our existence. It is that belief which empowers every member of our professional family to act with purpose and passion as they advance their career throughout their personal pursuit of excellence.


Backed by over five decades of experience, Herzog delivers exceptional customer service and elite results. 


Our success is the outcome of our relentless pursuit of excellence, our passion for our customers, safety without compromise, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of team.

We invite you to join us on our journey to excellence as we work to be better today than yesterday and better tomorrow than today.

It is the policy of Herzog Transit Services, Inc. to provide equal opportunity in employment for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, age, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, military status, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by law.

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