1

Cta Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bus Mechanic

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41.31/hr

... Driver's License (CDL) or a valid State of Illinois CDL permit with Knowledge and Air Brakes ... Must obtain forklift certification, as required by OSHA, through the CTA Bus Maintenance Training ...

Bus Mechanic

Chicago, IL · On-site

$36.72 - $45.90/hr

... Driver's License (CDL) or a valid State of Illinois CDL permit with Knowledge and Air Brakes ... CTA Bus Maintenance Training Department. • EPA 608 Certification in refrigerant handling and ...

Bus Mechanic

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41.31/hr

... Driver's License (CDL) or a valid State of Illinois CDL permit with Knowledge and Air Brakes ... Must obtain forklift certification, as required by OSHA, through the CTA Bus Maintenance Training ...

Bus Mechanic

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41.31/hr

... Driver's License (CDL) or a valid State of Illinois CDL permit with Knowledge and Air Brakes ... Must obtain forklift certification, as required by OSHA, through the CTA Bus Maintenance Training ...

... Driver's License (CDL) or a valid State of Illinois CDL permit with Knowledge and Air Brakes ... Must obtain forklift certification, as required by OSHA, through the CTA Bus Maintenance Training ...

Must be at least 21 years of age and be able to obtain a valid class B Illinois Driver's License ... CTA, and Pace. Public Service Loan Forgiveness

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cta Bus Driver information

See salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do cta bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cta bus driver in the United States is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical shift look like for a CTA Bus Driver and how are routes assigned?

CTA Bus Drivers usually work in shifts that can vary by seniority and operational needs, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Routes are typically assigned through a bidding process based on seniority, where more experienced drivers get first choice of routes and schedules. Daily responsibilities include conducting pre-trip vehicle inspections, keeping to scheduled stops, assisting passengers as needed, and maintaining communication with dispatch. Drivers collaborate closely with supervisors, maintenance staff, and sometimes law enforcement to ensure safety and service reliability. Adapting to different traffic conditions and handling passenger inquiries or issues are common aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Cta Bus Driver vs Cta Transit Operator?

AspectCta Bus DriverCta Transit Operator
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentDriving buses on scheduled routes, passenger interactionDriving transit vehicles, passenger interaction, often in urban areas
Employer & IndustryChicago Transit Authority, public transportationChicago Transit Authority, public transportation

Both Cta Bus Drivers and Cta Transit Operators require a CDL with passenger endorsements and work in urban public transit environments. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Cta Bus Driver' specifically emphasizes driving buses, while 'Cta Transit Operator' can include various transit vehicles. Both roles focus on safe driving, customer service, and adherence to schedules within the public transportation industry.

What are CTA Bus Drivers?

CTA Bus Drivers are professional operators employed by the Chicago Transit Authority to drive buses along designated routes throughout the city. They are responsible for safely transporting passengers, collecting fares, assisting riders with disabilities, and adhering to schedules and traffic regulations. CTA Bus Drivers also ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers while maintaining a courteous and professional demeanor. Their role is essential in keeping Chicago's public transportation system running efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CTA Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CTA Bus Driver, you need a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a clean driving record, and thorough knowledge of traffic laws and city routes. Familiarity with fare collection systems, communication devices, and vehicle safety inspection tools is typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and stress management are crucial soft skills for handling diverse riders and challenging situations. These skills ensure safe, reliable transportation and a positive experience for passengers and the community.
More about Cta Bus Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Cta Bus Driver jobs? Cities with the most Cta Bus Driver job openings:
What states have the most Cta Bus Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Cta Bus Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cta Bus Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cta Bus Driver jobs are:
Infographic showing various Cta Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% As Needed, 74% Full Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,198 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Bus Mechanic

$41.31/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Chicago Transit Authority rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

539th of 644 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description

SALARY

Per the current CBA, below is the Bus Mechanic pay progression:

  • 1-12 Months - $36.72
  • 12-24 Months - $41.31
  • 25+ Months - $45.90

POSITION SUMMARY

Under direct supervision, performs comprehensive maintenance and repair work on Authority buses.

Qualifications

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

* Performs troubleshooting, diagnosis, repair, and maintenance work on various bus systems and components.

* Inspects, aligns, replaces, adjusts, and repairs various bus components and systems.

* Uses instruments and gauges, including computers, to test and determine causative factors of component or system malfunctions or failures.

* Performs various tasks in regards to the preventative maintenance of transit bus vehicles, systems, and components.

* Receives, records, and verifies work repair data, as required, into the MMIS.

* Prepares written reports, as required, and performs administrative functions relative to vehicle repair documentation.

* May perform vehicle servicing/cleanliness functions on revenue and non-revenue vehicles as required.

* Operates buses and other Authority vehicles in and around bus shop/garage areas and along public right-of-way.

* Performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to this position are the following jobs:

Job Title

* None

CHALLENGES

*

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

* Must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

* Must possess a minimum of two (2) years of verifiable work experience in automotive, truck, or bus repair and maintenance, or applicable military experience, or a combination of education and experience relating to this position. Possession of a certificate/diploma in medium/heavy duty or diesel engine vehicle repair from an accredited trade/vocational school or college will count as verifiable experience.

* Required to submit to and pass drug and alcohol testing as mandated by the Federal Transportation Administration.

* Required to have an acceptable driving record and a valid State of Illinois Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or a valid State of Illinois CDL permit with Knowledge and Air Brakes endorsements.

* Must pass a mechanics practical test that includes both a physical and a written performance test prior to hire.

* Must obtain forklift certification, as required by OSHA, through the CTA Bus Maintenance Training Department.

* EPA 608 Certification in refrigerant handling and recycling is a plus.

* ASE Transit Bus or Medium/Heavy Truck Certifications is a plus.

* Must be willing to accept the job related responsibility and accountability that this position requires.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

* Must meet and maintain physical requirements in order to safely perform all job duties and tasks.

* Must have the strength to stand for extended periods of time when inspecting buses and making repairs and adjustments.

* Must be able to walk to various areas of the bay to retrieve parts and spot check buses.

* Must be able to lift and carry parts, equipment, and materials weighing up to 100 pounds including: fire extinguishers, tire assemblies, barrels of oil, fuel tank drain pans, and various bus parts and components.

* Must be able to climb approved ladders and scaffolds and maintain balance when working atop bus roofs.

* Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl when repairing bus floors, walls, etc., and when working underneath buses and in hard to reach spaces.

* Must be able to reach for tools and parts while working on buses.

* Requires manual dexterity for making repairs and adjustments on equipment.

* Requires visual acumen and the ability to see in and distinguish colors.

* Must be able to hear verbal instructions, announcements, alarms, and horns.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

* Working knowledge of the operations of truck and bus automatic transmissions and various types of rear axle configurations.

* Working knowledgeable of shop theory, operation, and methods and procedures used in the repair and analysis of bus and truck propulsion, steering, and "s" cam air brake systems.

* Working knowledgeable of the correct use of hand and power tools including mechanic tools used in the repair of diesel, gasoline, and alternative fuel engines, transmissions, air conditioning systems, steering systems, air brake systems, and various other vehicle components.

* Working knowledge of the operations of diesel, gasoline, and alternative fuel engines.

* Working knowledge of the safety, environmental, and hazardous issues and concerns involved in working in bus garage/shop areas.

* Basic knowledge of the principles, theories, functions and inter-relationships of the various vehicle systems and components i.e. electrical/electronic, mechanical, and air conditioning.

* Good oral and written communications skills.

* Basic math skills related to the duties of the position.

* Basic computer skills.

* Ability to operate Authority revenue and non-revenue vehicles in and around bus garage/shop areas and on and along public right-of-way.

* Ability to read, interpret, and understand diagrams, schematics, blueprints, sketches, bulletins, and procedures.

* Ability to use pertinent test equipment including computers, gauges, and various types of hand held, mechanical and electronic testing or diagnostic equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS

* Subject to the results of Bus Maintenance Garage and System Picks as scheduled.

* Exposed to outside weather conditions including: extreme hot and cold, humidity and dampness, and noise and vibration.

* Exposed to various mechanical, atmospheric, and chemical hazards.

EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS UTILIZED

* Various lifting and hoisting equipment used in raising and lowering vehicles.

* Computers.

Additional Details Employees and/or union members will be given priority consideration in the hiring process, per the applicable labor contracts. Rate to be determined by applicant's entered service date and service date in union jurisdiction of this classification. CTA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. No employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, ancestry, age, unfavorable military discharge, disability or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws; except where a bona fide occupational qualification exists We are committed to providing an inclusive environment for our workforce and supporting the communities we serve. CTA will make reasonable accommodations for the known disabilities of otherwise qualified applicants for employment as well as its employees, unless undue hardship would result. If you require an accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact arc@transitchicago.com prior to the submission of your application or upon notification of your actual test date. CTA will work with you to determine if an accommodation can be provided. TO BE CONSIDERED APPLICATIONS MUST BE COMPLETED IN THEIR ENTIRETY INCLUDING:
  • UPLOADED RESUME / WORK HISTORY
  • QUALIFICATIONS
  • JOB ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
INFORMATION PROVIDED MUST BE ACCURATE AND TRUTHFUL. Failure to respond to correspondences during the hiring process in a timely fashion may result in your application being closed out for non-responsiveness. CTA Benefits

https://www.transitchicago.com/hrbenefits/

Primary Location: USA-Illinois-Chicago Job: Bus Maintenance Job Posting: Mar 13, 2026, 6:09:57 PM Position Type: Full-time Permanent (FTP)

Required

Preferred

Job Industries

  • Other

What Chicago Transit Authority employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom