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First Transit Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

R.R. Donnelley

Material Handler 1st Shift

West Bend, WI · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Material Handler 1st Shift Full-time Air Force MOS: 1A2X1: Aircraft Loadmaster Helper Navy MOS: BM ... Install strapping, bracing, or padding to prevent shifting or damage in transit, using hand tools

Verstela

1st Shift Warehouse Associate

Kenosha, WI

$13/hr

This position is not transit accessible * Reliable transportation is required Interested in this 1st Shift Warehouse Associate opportunity? Apply now or call (262) 842-2007 to get started today.

RR Donnelley

Material Handler 1st Shift

West Bend, WI

$16 - $18/hr

Install strapping, bracing, or padding to prevent shifting or damage in transit, using hand tools * Attaches identifying tags or labels to materials or marks information on cases, bales, or other ...

RR Donnelley

Material Handler 1st Shift

West Bend, WI · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Install strapping, bracing, or padding to prevent shifting or damage in transit, using hand tools * Attaches identifying tags or labels to materials or marks information on cases, bales, or other ...

Nelson Container Corp.

Be Seen First

Production Employee - 1st shift

Germantown, WI · On-site

$16 - $25/hr

Production Employees 1st shift Nelson Container Corp. is growning fast! NCC, a corrugated box ... Transit Association (ISTA) Test Lab.

MSCCN

Coach Bus Operator Apprentice

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$25.74/hr

... a great first step toward a long-term career with us. JOB SUMMARY: Milwaukee County Transit System is seeking to hire Apprentices for the Coach/Bus Operator position. This is a State approved ...

mcts

COACH/BUS OPERATOR APPRENTICE

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$25.74/hr

... a great first step toward a long-term career with us. JOB SUMMARY: Milwaukee County Transit System is seeking to hire Apprentices for the Coach/Bus Operator position. This is a State approved ...

mcts

COACH/BUS OPERATOR APPRENTICE

Milwaukee, WI

$25.74/hr

... a great first step toward a long-term career with us. JOB SUMMARY: Milwaukee County Transit System is seeking to hire Apprentices for the Coach/Bus Operator position. This is a State approved ...

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All JobsFirst Transit JobsFirst Transit Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

First Transit information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$13

$19

$31

How much do first transit jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for first transit in Milwaukee, WI is $19.49, 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 Milwaukee, WI? For First Transit jobs in Milwaukee, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Transit jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for? The top searched job categories for First Transit jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
First Transit jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Transit job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,534 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

COACH/BUS OPERATOR APPRENTICE

Milwaukee County Transit System

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$25.74/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Coach/Bus Operator Apprentice - Class 9 (CDL Permit Holders): September 14, 2026; Class 10 (Full CDL Holders): September 28, 2026
Status: Represented - ATU 998
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Department: Transportation
Wage: 1st year $25.74 per hour
Would you like to get a head start on your career? Then apply to become an apprentice! Gain valuable mentoring throughout your first year as a bus operator. MCTS, in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, offers the Coach/Bus Operator Apprenticeship program, a great first step toward a long-term career with us.
JOB SUMMARY:
Milwaukee County Transit System is seeking to hire Apprentices for the Coach/Bus Operator position. This is a State approved, thirteen (13) month registered apprenticeship program, where you will receive classroom and hands-on training from experienced mentors. During the training period, Apprentices will obtain their CDL and learn all aspects of safely operating a passenger bus all while providing an essential service to the communities of Milwaukee County.
As an Apprentice, you will learn to drive in a safe, efficient, and courteous manner while adhering to a pre-determined route and schedule. Apprentices will exhibit excellent customer services skills and allow passengers to board, travel and alight at scheduled stops. In addition to intensive training, Apprentices will also meet with a mentor who will provide additional guidance to ensure the success of the Apprentice. Upon successful completion of the program, Apprentices will receive a Coach/Bus Operator Journey worker's card issued by the State of Wisconsin.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Safely operate transit bus in strict compliance with Milwaukee County Transit System policies, guidelines, and procedures, as well as follow all Wisconsin and Federal traffic laws and regulations.
  • Collect fares according to existing fare structure, inspect bus passes and issue valid transfers in a professional, courteous manner.
  • Operate the radio, farebox and other systems within the bus in accordance with company policies and procedures.
  • Provide public timetables and accurate information to customers.
  • Call street locations, transfer points, major intersections, and other requested stops in compliance with ADA guidelines and Company policy.
  • Provide accessibility for disabled passengers to board and alight by properly operating all ramps and lifts and safely securing passengers in compliance with ADA guidelines and Company policy.
  • Demonstrate excellent customer service skills when interacting with all passengers.
  • Perform vehicle inspections before, during and after scheduled work assignments. This includes internal and external areas of the bus, reporting all defects on proper forms.
  • Monitor Special Bulletins and detours daily and make appropriate adjustments as needed.
  • Follow Company policy for handling lost articles including a visual inspection of the bus at the end of the line and at pull-in.
  • Complete accident and incident reports accurately and legibly, as necessary.
  • Complete fare box, passenger, and bus maintenance defect reports, as necessary.
  • Frequently meet with mentor to discuss the position, and respective challenges and successes.
  • Conduct self in an appropriate manner as a representative of Milwaukee County Transit System.
  • Perform other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Proof of employment eligibility/authorization to work in the U.S.
  • Must be at least 21 years of age.
  • Must be able to work any hour of the day, any day of the week.
  • Must have a valid Class D Wisconsin driver's license (non-probationary) for at least one (1) year prior to the date of application.
  • Valid CDL Class B License with "P" Endorsement with no Air Brake restriction (or valid CDL permit 14 days prior to start date or transfer date).
  • Maximum of six (6) points accrued on motor vehicle record during the 3 years before the start date.
  • No revocation or suspension as a result of a moving violation during the last 3 years before the date of hire.
  • No OWI/DUI violations, unless based on circumstances, an exception may be granted.
  • Stable work history with excellent attendance and punctuality record.
  • Successfully complete the Bus Operator Training Program.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Ability to operate New Flyer and Gillig Buses.
  • Ability to effectively drive a bus, handle emergencies and use standard defensive driving techniques.
  • Ability to adapt to constantly changing operating environments.
  • Ability to work unusual hours, including split shifts, weekends, holidays, early mornings, late nights, and overtime as required.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with passengers and staff.
  • Ability to de-escalate situations when they arise on the bus.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and common sense when making quick decisions with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to read, write and speak loud, clear, understandable English.
  • Ability to read and understand maps and timetables which includes determining directions and following a mapped route.
  • Ability to keep a timely schedule while in service.
  • Knowledge of streets, current bus routes and stops.
  • Knowledge of Bus Operator rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
  • Knowledge of current fare structures, and the corresponding rules and regulations.
  • Ability to purchase and wear company uniform.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
  • Ability to tolerate varying temperatures including heat, cold and precipitation while inspecting exterior of bus.
  • Ability to tolerate varying temperatures including excessive heat and cold while operating bus.
  • Ability to climb stairs, reach above shoulder level, walk, bend, stoop, lift, push and pull without assistance.
  • Ability to operate pedals.
  • Ability to sit without discomfort for an extended period of time.
  • Ability to fit behind the steering wheel with adequate clearance.
  • Ability to work in an environment with dust, exhaust fumes, diesel fuel, oil, grease, and various noise levels.
  • Physical requirements are those described light work exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly having to move objects.

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT:
The above are general requirements that must be met for consideration. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of job qualifications or job duties. Hourly wages are based on the ATU Local 998 Collective Bargaining Agreement pay progression scale and are non-negotiable. Wages reflected include Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) and shift differentials as applicable.
Milwaukee Transport Services Inc. (Milwaukee County Transit System) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, military status, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to workplace safety and will perform pre-employment drug testing, background checks, and pre-employment physicals as subject to the job requirements.

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