1

First Transit Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Provide education and information to client regarding MTM Transit procedures, services available, and changes within the Para-Transit industry * Maintain a "Safety First" attitude with client and ...

General Manager

Sonora, CA · On-site

$125K/yr

Provide education and information to client regarding MTM Transit procedures, services available, and changes within the Para-Transit industry * Maintain a "Safety First" attitude with client and ...

Provide education and information to client regarding MTM Transit procedures, services available, and changes within the Para-Transit industry * Maintain a "Safety First" attitude with client and ...

General Manager

Sonora, CA · On-site

$125K/yr

Provide education and information to client regarding MTM Transit procedures, services available, and changes within the Para-Transit industry * Maintain a "Safety First" attitude with client and ...

Provide education and information to client regarding MTM Transit procedures, services available, and changes within the Para-Transit industry * Maintain a "Safety First" attitude with client and ...

Provide education and information to client regarding MTM Transit procedures, services available, and changes within the Para-Transit industry * Maintain a "Safety First" attitude with client and ...

General Manager

La Verne, CA · On-site

$99K - $149K/yr

Provide education and information to client regarding MTM Transit procedures, services available, and changes within the Para-Transit industry * Maintain a "Safety First" attitude with client and ...

General Manager

La Verne, CA · On-site

$99K - $149K/yr

Provide education and information to client regarding MTM Transit procedures, services available, and changes within the Para-Transit industry * Maintain a "Safety First" attitude with client and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

First Transit information

See California salary details

$13

$19

$31

How much do first transit jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for first transit in California is $19.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a First Transit Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, fare collection technology, and vehicle inspection procedures is typically required. Excellent customer service skills, patience, and strong communication abilities help drivers interact effectively with passengers and handle stressful situations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, providing reliable service, and maintaining the company's reputation.

What are some common challenges faced by bus operators at First Transit and how are they supported in overcoming them?

Bus operators at First Transit often face challenges such as navigating heavy traffic, maintaining schedules, and ensuring passenger safety under varying conditions. To help address these challenges, First Transit provides comprehensive training, ongoing support from dispatch and management, and regular safety briefings. Operators also collaborate closely with maintenance teams to ensure vehicle reliability and with customer service staff to address passenger concerns. This supportive environment helps operators manage stress and deliver reliable service.

What is the difference between First Transit vs Bus Driver?

AspectFirst TransitBus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCDL, passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transportation, fixed routes, urban/suburban areasPublic transit vehicles, routes vary by employer
Employer & Industry UsageTransit agencies, private contractorsTransit agencies, private companies
Common Search/ComparisonFirst Transit vs Bus Driver

Bus Drivers are the frontline employees operating transit vehicles for companies like First Transit. While First Transit is a major employer providing transit services, Bus Drivers are the roles they hire for. Both require similar credentials, such as a CDL with passenger endorsement, and work in public transportation environments. The main difference is that First Transit is an employer, whereas Bus Driver is a job title within their operations.

What is First Transit and what do they do?

First Transit is a leading provider of public transportation contracting and management services in North America. They operate and manage bus, shuttle, paratransit, and other transit services for cities, universities, airports, and private organizations. Their services include everything from daily operations to maintenance, staffing, and route planning. First Transit aims to deliver safe, reliable, and efficient transportation solutions tailored to each client's needs.
What are popular job titles related to First Transit jobs in California? For First Transit jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for First Transit jobs? Cities in California with the most First Transit job openings:
Infographic showing various First Transit job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 66% In-person, 17% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,602 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
General Manager

General Manager

MTM Transit

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


MTM Transit rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 76 rated public transport


Job description

Make a Difference

At MTM Transit, you're not just part of a team-you're at the heart of a movement to remove community barriers nationwide. We're all about breaking the mold with bold ideas, open conversations, and a relentless focus on what matters most: you. Here, collaboration sparks breakthroughs, learning fuels growth, and every voice shapes our future. Together, we thrive, push our limits, and work as team to help you reach your full potential.

What will your job look like?

The General Manager works in collaboration with operations, corporate support departments, and transportation providers to ensure the most appropriate and cost-effective delivery of transportation services. Will act as the internal liaison between departments and clients to ensure that the location is fully compliant with all contractual requirements.

This position is dependent on the award of contract.

Location: Bakersfield, CA

What you'll do:

  • Contract oversight and facilitation of client needs with anticipation of growth
  • Identify potential risk and develop resolution processes
  • Continually analyze program needs and productivity and adjust staffing and resources to ensure cost effectiveness
  • Development of or oversight of documentation or work plans as required or needed
  • Employee training and development
  • Thorough understanding of the contract, MTM Transit policies and employee handbook guidelines
  • Develop a working relationship with client to ensure exceptional customer service needs and problem resolution processes are in place
  • Act as a liaison between MTM Transit and client to address any concerns or issues that may arise and do so in a timely manner
  • Act in a consultative manner, developing and presenting annual plan reviews
  • Provide education and information to client regarding MTM Transit procedures, services available, and changes within the Para-Transit industry
  • Maintain a "Safety First" attitude with client and personnel
  • Good understanding or local climate needs and issues pertaining to the passenger transportation industry
  • Thorough understanding of ridership policies to ensure smooth transportation services
  • Capability of addressing any questions / concerns regarding site transit program
  • Maintain all employee and vehicle files in accordance with FTA and DOT guidelines
  • Develop and maintain thorough knowledge of MTM Transit departments and compliance programs within each
  • Monitor performance of direct reports and provide coaching and guidance
  • Oversight of Federally mandated Drug and Alcohol program
  • Perform additional duties as assigned or required

What you'll need:

Experience, Education & Certifications:

  • High school diploma or G.E.D
  • 3-5 years of management experience in Paratransit AND Fixed Route Transit industry
  • Experience monitoring the delivery of contractual services
  • Must possess a valid current driver's license

Skills:

  • Must possess excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with a variety of people and job positions
  • Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of MTM Transit operations, company policies, and guidelines
  • Ability to acquire in-depth knowledge of computerized transit routing systems
  • Data analysis
  • Exceptional interpretation and problem solving skills
  • Ability to schedule, organize and prioritize multiple tasks
  • Understanding of budget and cost analysis
  • Moderate to advanced computer skills
  • Ability working with data reporting and analytics
  • Knowledge of ADA, DOT, FTA regulations
  • Ability to establish key processes and procedures
  • Ability to maintain high level of confidentiality

Even better if you have...

  • Prior contract and or project management experience preferred
  • Experience in managing a Union environment preferred
  • CDL Class B with Passenger Endorsements preferred

What's in it for you:

  • Health and Life Insurance Plans
  • Dental and Vision Plans
  • 401(k) with a company match
  • Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
  • Maternity/Paternity Leave
  • Casual Dress Environment
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • MTM Perks Discount Program
  • Leadership Mentoring Opportunities

Salary Min: $76,960/ annually

Salary Max: $125,000/ annually

This information reflects the base salary pay range for this job based on current national market data. Ranges may vary based on the job's location. We offer competitive pay that varies based on individual skills, experience, and other relevant factors. We encourage you to apply to positions that you are interested in and for which you believe you are qualified. To learn more, you are welcome to discuss this with us as you move through the selection process.

Equal Opportunity Employer: MTM is an equal opportunity employer. MTM considers qualified candidates with a criminal history in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable local, State, and Federal law. If you are in need of accommodations, please contact MTM's People & Culture.

#MTMTransit


What MTM Transit employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


MTM Transit logo

About MTM Transit

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Special transit systems transportation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Lake Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

2009