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Cota Bus Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Central Ohio Transit Authority

Bus Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$30.06/hr

As a COTA Operator you will: * Be a Hero on the Road: Confidently navigate COTA's system, getting ... COTA Bus Pass * Wellness Initiatives * On-Site Chair Massage * On-Site Health Coach * Tuition ...

Central Ohio Transit Authority

Bus Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$40.08/hr

As a COTA Operator you will: * Be a Hero on the Road: Confidently navigate COTA's system, getting ... COTA Bus Pass * Wellness Initiatives * On-Site Chair Massage * On-Site Health Coach * Tuition ...

Central Ohio Transit Authority

Bus Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$40.08/hr

As a COTA Operator you will: * Be a Hero on the Road: Confidently navigate COTA's system, getting ... COTA Bus Pass * Wellness Initiatives * On-Site Chair Massage * On-Site Health Coach * Tuition ...

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How much do cota bus jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cota bus in the United States is $32.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.40 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a COTA Bus job?

A COTA Bus job typically refers to a position with the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA), which operates public transportation in the Columbus, Ohio area. These jobs often include roles such as bus operators, maintenance technicians, customer service representatives, and administrative staff. Bus operators are responsible for safely transporting passengers along designated routes, following schedules, and ensuring a positive rider experience. Employees may receive benefits such as competitive pay, health insurance, and retirement plans. Training is usually provided for new hires, particularly for those without prior commercial driving experience.

What is the highest paying bus driver?

The highest paying bus drivers are typically those working in specialized roles such as charter or executive transportation, or those with extensive experience and certifications. In general, bus drivers with advanced skills, safety records, and additional endorsements can earn higher wages, often exceeding the average salary for standard transit bus drivers.

What are the typical responsibilities of a COTA working on a bus?

A COTA working on a bus is responsible for supporting students or individuals with disabilities during transport, ensuring their comfort and safety, and implementing therapeutic strategies as needed. This includes assisting with transfers, monitoring behavior or medical needs, and collaborating closely with bus drivers and school staff to maintain a safe environment. Additionally, COTAs may communicate with families or caregivers and keep detailed documentation of daily interactions. This unique role allows COTAs to make a direct impact on students’ well-being and independence during their daily commute.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cota Bus position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a COTA (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant) in a school bus or transit setting, candidates typically need a COTA certification, knowledge of occupational therapy practices, and experience working with children or individuals with disabilities. Familiarity with assistive devices, therapeutic equipment, and specialized documentation software is often required. Strong communication, patience, and collaboration skills help COTAs work effectively with students, families, bus drivers, and educational teams. These abilities are vital to ensure safe and effective support for individuals with special needs during transportation.

What is top pay for CTA bus drivers?

The top pay for CTA bus drivers typically ranges from $30 to $35 per hour, depending on experience, seniority, and union agreements. Many drivers also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, with opportunities for overtime pay. Salaries can vary based on location and contract negotiations.

How much do CT Transit bus drivers make?

Cota Bus drivers, similar to transit bus drivers, typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $15 to $25, depending on experience and location. They often receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and may need a commercial driver's license (CDL) to operate the buses.
More about Cota Bus jobs
What cities are hiring for Cota Bus jobs? Cities with the most Cota Bus job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cota Bus jobs? The most popular types of Cota Bus jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Cota Bus jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cota Bus jobs are:
Cota Bus jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cota Bus job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,531 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Bus Operator

Central Ohio Transit Authority

Columbus, OH • On-site

$30.06/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Central Ohio Transit Authority rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 836 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Must have a valid Ohio Driver's License and be able to obtain/maintain a Commercial Driver's License.
  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.).
  • Must have proof of U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the U.S.
  • Must have one year's experience in a public contact job, preferably as a salesclerk, waiter/waitress, customer service, etc.
  • Must demonstrate a pattern of consistent employment with reasonable job tenure, and minimal unexplained employment gaps.
  • Must have reliable transportation.
  • Must meet background check requirements.
  • Must satisfactorily complete all pre-employment testing, including a drug screen.
  • Must meet the following requirements of the position:
    • Availability for shifts at non-standard hours.
    • Ability to lift 50 lbs.
    • Ability to sit for long periods without discomfort.
    • Ability to bend, squat, reach, and assist passengers on and off the vehicle.
    • Must verify the past three (3) year's driving record and meet the following criteria:
    • No more than one moving violation within 1 year.
    • No more than 2 moving violations in last 3 years.
    • No revocation/suspension in last 3 years.
    • No OMVI or DUI in last 3 years.
    • No hit and skips in last 3 years.
    • No ACDA (Assured Clear Distance Accident) in last 3 years.
    • Must be able to work mandatory overtime to include, but not limited to, early mornings, evenings, and weekends.
    • English proficiency.
    • Familiarity with state traffic laws.
    • Skills with technology, following instructions, communication, map-reading, time-telling.
    • Ability to work with minimal supervision

JOB DESCRIPTION:
Candidates must attend mandatory, paid, 9 (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.

PAY/BENEFITS:
  • 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

WHAT'S NEXT:
  • Submit your application.
  • Complete the alignment assessment that will be emailed to you.
  • If qualified, we will contact you in the order your application was reviewed. Due to high application volume, you will be contacted within 5 weeks with an update to your application.

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.

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