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Fixed Route Bus Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hiring Immediately for Fixed Route Drivers! Transdev is actively hiring bus drivers for their fixed ... Come join the largest private-sector operator of public transportation in North America - one that ...

Hiring Immediately for Fixed Route Drivers! Transdev is actively hiring bus drivers for their fixed ... Come join the largest private-sector operator of public transportation in North America - one that ...

Operate transit buses safely on prescribed routes as directed. Conduct pre and post trip vehicle ... Requires prolong sitting while driving/operating transit bus. Includes reaching above head to ...

Execute flawless operations by meticulously following designated routes and schedules, while ... Driver/Operator - Bus, Paratransit, Taxi, Limo, Shuttle Job Type: Full Time Req ID: 4695 Pay Group ...

Execute flawless operations by meticulously following designated routes and schedules, while ... Driver/Operator - Bus, Paratransit, Taxi, Limo, Shuttle Job Type: Full Time Req ID: 4695 Pay Group ...

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Fixed Route Bus Operator information

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$25

How much do fixed route bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for fixed route bus operator in the United States is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fixed route operator?

A fixed route bus operator is a professional who drives buses along predetermined routes, adhering to schedules and safety regulations. They are responsible for passenger safety, fare collection, and maintaining punctual service, often requiring a commercial driver's license and good customer service skills.

How much do RTC bus drivers make?

RTC bus drivers, including fixed route bus operators, typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, shift differentials, and seniority. They often require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and must complete safety training. Compensation may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers, including those who operate fixed route buses, typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $20, depending on experience and location. Full-time drivers often receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, and a commercial driver's license (CDL) is usually required.

What is the top pay for a bus operator?

The top pay for a fixed route bus operator varies by location and experience but can reach up to $25 to $30 per hour or higher in some regions. Experienced operators with additional certifications or seniority may earn higher wages, often supplemented by benefits and overtime opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fixed Route Bus Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fixed Route Bus Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and city routes. Familiarity with fare collection systems, vehicle inspection tools, and GPS navigation technology is typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and strong communication skills help operators manage passenger interactions and resolve issues calmly. These skills and qualities ensure the safety, reliability, and satisfaction of passengers while maintaining efficient public transit operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Fixed Route Bus Operators, and how are they typically addressed?

Fixed Route Bus Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining schedules during heavy traffic, managing diverse passenger needs, and staying attentive during long shifts. To address these, operators receive thorough training in defensive driving, customer service, and stress management. Transit agencies also provide real-time route updates and support from dispatch to help operators navigate delays and unforeseen issues. Regular breaks and a supportive team environment contribute to maintaining safety and service quality.

What is the difference between Fixed Route Bus Operator vs Charter Bus Driver?

AspectFixed Route Bus OperatorCharter Bus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCDL, passenger endorsement, often additional certifications
Work EnvironmentPublic transit buses on scheduled routes within cities or regionsPrivate or group trips, often longer distances and flexible schedules
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, government entitiesPrivate bus companies, tour operators
Search & Comparison IntentJob roles, requirements, work conditionsTrip types, scheduling, employer details

Both Fixed Route Bus Operators and Charter Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsements and work in the bus transportation industry. Fixed Route Bus Operators typically serve public transit routes with scheduled stops, while Charter Bus Drivers handle private, often longer, trips for groups or tours. The main differences lie in their work environment and employer type, but the skills and certifications are quite similar.

What are Fixed Route Bus Operators?

Fixed Route Bus Operators are professional drivers responsible for operating buses along established public transportation routes and schedules. They pick up and drop off passengers at designated stops, collect fares, and provide customer service to ensure a safe and pleasant ride. In addition to driving, they follow traffic laws and transit policies, assist passengers with special needs, and report any issues or incidents encountered during their shift. These operators play a vital role in keeping public transportation systems running smoothly and on time.
More about Fixed Route Bus Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Fixed Route Bus Operator jobs? Cities with the most Fixed Route Bus Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Fixed Route Bus Operator jobs? The top employers for Fixed Route Bus Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Fixed Route Bus Operator jobs? For Fixed Route Bus Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Fixed Route Bus Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 52% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,824 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Fixed Route Bus Operator

$17.55/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


East Carolina University rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

350th of 536 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
Working Title Fixed Route Bus Operator Position Number T17123 Department AFH Transit and Safe Ride Department Homepage Advertising Department TRANSIT Division Administration & Finance Classification Title Competency Level 1 - Contributing Number of Vacancies 25 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) 1.0 Hourly Salary Rate/Range $17.55 Work Schedule Varies Position Location (City) Greenville Position Type Temporary Staff Job Category Staff - Temporary Primary Function of Organizational Unit
ECU Transit is the university's transportation system. We serve students, faculty, and visitors through free fixed-route and on-demand services designed to make getting around campus easier. The system is run predominantly by more than 100 student employees.
The mission of ECU Transit is to provide transportation services, which are safe, dependable and cost effective to the University community, and to facilitate learning and involvement for student success thereby enhancing the quality of life in our community.
Job Duties
This position serves as a Transit Fixed Route bus operator, reporting to the Operations Planning and Compliance Manager. This is a temporary position, and employment may not exceed 11 months in a calendar year. The position will be responsible for the safe operation of a 40-foot or less transit-style bus operating on a fixed route & schedule, transporting the ECU community around campus and the surrounding Greenville area in adherence to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and other state and local traffic laws. Working hours will vary day to day based on scheduling needs, but will be between the hours of 6:30 AM and 1:00 AM. ECU Transit operates 7 days a week during the fall and spring semesters, except for scheduled university breaks. Weekend and night shifts may be required. The following is a detailed list of duties required for this role:
Safe Operation:
  • The position will be required to comply with all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for interstate transportation, including but not limited to hours-of-service regulations, fit-for-duty regulations, medical certification, as well as vehicle safety inspections.
  • Operators will exercise good judgment, safe vehicle operation, and defensive driving skills, and positively represent the Department and the University.
  • Operators will adjust driving for various weather conditions and traffic situations.
  • Demonstrates complete knowledge about the geographic area surrounding Greenville.
  • Receive and transmit two-way radio communications regarding accidents, incidents, emergencies, criminal activities, or any other authorized ECU Transit business while utilizing judgment and discretion to ensure customer and individual safety.

Passenger Management/Customer Service:
  • Will provide excellence in customer service and sound decision-making under pressure.
  • Greets passengers and groups in a courteous manner and assists with boarding and disembarking.
  • Ensures passenger safety and comfort throughout the journey.
  • Addresses any concerns or issues raised by passengers and provides necessary assistance.
  • Operate a wheelchair lift, secure passengers' mobility devices, and assist passengers with disabilities with boarding, riding, and alighting in a safe manner when necessary.
  • May occasionally need to help passengers with baggage loading and unloading

Vehicle Maintenance:
  • Perform routine pre-trip and post-trip inspections of motorcoach vehicles.
  • Report any mechanical issues or concerns to the maintenance team for repairs.
  • Keep the interior and exterior of the vehicle clean and presentable while on assignment.

Administrative Duties
  • Write reports and complete forms as required.
  • Will prepare detailed written reports concerning accidents/incidents, breakdowns, and mechanical defects as required at the end of a shift.
  • Maintains an accurate record of mileage, fuel consumption, and any incidents during shifts.

Other Duties as Assigned:
  • Will perform physical tasks related to vehicle inspections and operation.
  • Complete ongoing training courses for professional development provided by ECU Transit during the duration of employment.
  • Special Event/Local Charter/Shuttle
  • Team meetings.
  • Monthly Safety Meetings.

Minimum Education/Experience
Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work. Requires appropriate licenses or certifications to operate assigned types of vehicles or equipment.
License or Certification Required by Statute or Regulation
Class B, or A, CDL with Passenger Endorsement & No Air Brake Restriction
Preferred Experience, Skills, Training/Education
Previous experience operating a transit style bus or equivalent commercial passenger vehicle.
License or Certification Required by the Department
  • A valid NC Commercial Driver's License, Class B or A, with passenger endorsement and without air brake restriction and the ability to drive Interstate (no K-restriction).

  • A Valid DOT Commercial Driver Medical Certificate (MEC) Form MCSA-5876.

  • Entry Level Driver Training Certification, if CDL was obtained after February 2022.

Special Instructions to Applicant
  • Please ensure your full range of knowledge, skills, abilities, experience and education are listed on your application. Do not write 'see resume' on your application when completing the job duties section. 
  • If you answer the questions at the end of the application, please ensure your application reflects the knowledge, skills, abilities and experiences to support your answers (see job duties section of previous employment). 
  • Failure to answer the questions at the end of the application will not preclude your application from being considered but may result in your application not receiving full consideration of your knowledge, skills, and abilities. 
  • Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
  • Unless otherwise identified in the applicable job posting and consistent with University policy, the University will principally employ individuals who reside in the State of North Carolina to the greatest extent practicable. As such, most positions at East Carolina University require employees to live and work in North Carolina (or live within a reasonable daily commuting distance from their duty station) after hire. Candidates should be prepared to relocate within a reasonable, agreed-upon time after an offer of employment has been made and accepted to meet this requirement.
Job Open Date 01/06/2026 Job Close Date 12/31/2026 Quick Link for Direct Access to Posting https://ecu.peopleadmin.com/postings/91007 Nondiscrimination Statement
East Carolina University is committed to workforce success and cultivating a culture of care for our employees. ECU prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment based on race/ethnicity, color, genetic information, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, political affiliation, and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status or disability.
Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) should contact the ADA Coordinator at (252) 737-1018 (Voice/TTY) or ADA-Coordinator@ecu.edu.
Eligibility for Employment
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. ECU participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
Department for People Operations, Success, and Opportunity
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Department for People Operations, Success, and Opportunity at (252) 328-9847 or toll free at 1-866-489-1740 or send an email to employment@ecu.edu. Our office is available to provide assistance Monday-Friday from 8:00-5:00 EST.

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About East Carolina University

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ECU is the state’s leader and national trailblazer in distance education. Whether you want to finish what you started or start something new, East Carolina University offers more than 100 online degree and certificate programs in business, health care, education, technology, and other areas to give you the options you need to meet your objectives.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Greenville, NC, US

Year founded

1907