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Metro Transit Bus Driver Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The Transit Operator I operates a City passenger bus following a specific schedule and route as a relief or temporary driver. Demand-response service is provided which includes working on Saturdays.

The Transit Operator I operates a City passenger bus following a specific schedule and route as a relief or temporary driver. Demand-response service is provided which includes working on Saturdays.

School Bus Driver

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$20.44/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee has openings for school bus drivers (Transit Operator I and Transit Operator II positions). Online applications are being accepted for temporary, part-time and ...

School Bus Driver

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$20.44/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee has openings for school bus drivers (Transit Operator I and Transit Operator II positions). Online applications are being accepted for temporary, part-time and ...

School Bus Driver

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$20.44/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee has openings for school bus drivers (Transit Operator I and Transit Operator II positions). Online applications are being accepted for temporary, part-time and ...

School Bus Driver

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$20.44/hr

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee has openings for school bus drivers (Transit Operator I and Transit Operator II positions). Online applications are being accepted for temporary, part-time and ...

School Bus Driver

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$23.38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

School Bus Driver Jobs | Oak Ridge Schools | Paid CDL Training | Oak Ridge & Knoxville, TN Now ... the Knoxville Metro Area, Including Farragut, Hardin Valley, Karns, Powell, Concord, and West ...

School Bus Driver

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$23.38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

School Bus Driver Jobs | Oak Ridge Schools | Paid CDL Training | Oak Ridge & Knoxville, TN Now ... the Knoxville Metro Area, Including Farragut, Hardin Valley, Karns, Powell, Concord, and West ...

School Bus Driver

Oak Ridge, TN

$23.38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

School Bus Driver Jobs | Oak Ridge Schools | Paid CDL Training | Oak Ridge & Knoxville, TN Now ... the Knoxville Metro Area, Including Farragut, Hardin Valley, Karns, Powell, Concord, and West ...

Bus Driver

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Drivers will use Emerald Youth Foundation vehicles primarily for afterschool pick-ups, summer day ... Follow state and federal transit regulations. QUALIFICATIONS: * Dedicated Christian with clear ...

Drivers will use Emerald Youth Foundation vehicles primarily for afterschool pick-ups, summer day ... Follow state and federal transit regulations. QUALIFICATIONS: * Dedicated Christian with clear ...

Bus Driver

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Drivers will use Emerald Youth Foundation vehicles primarily for afterschool pick-ups, summer day ... Follow state and federal transit regulations. QUALIFICATIONS: * Dedicated Christian with clear ...

BUS DRIVER

Pikeville, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Drives school bus/es for the purpose of transporting passengers over scheduled routes to and from ... Monitors students and other passengers during transit for the purpose of ensuring the safe ...

BUS DRIVER

Pikeville, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Drives school bus/es for the purpose of transporting passengers over scheduled routes to and from ... Monitors students and other passengers during transit for the purpose of ensuring the safe ...

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Metro Transit Bus Driver information

See Tennessee salary details

$7

$17

$25

How much do metro transit bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for metro transit bus driver in Tennessee is $17.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Metro Transit bus driver?

Metro Transit Bus Drivers are professional drivers responsible for operating public buses on designated routes within a city or metropolitan area. They ensure the safe and timely transportation of passengers, collect fares, assist with passenger inquiries, and maintain a courteous and professional attitude. These drivers also inspect their vehicles for safety, follow traffic laws, and adhere to schedules, making them a vital part of the public transportation system. Their role helps reduce traffic congestion and provides accessible transportation to the community.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a Metro Transit bus driver?

To thrive as a Metro Transit Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and thorough knowledge of traffic laws and safety procedures. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, fare collection machines, and onboard communication tools is typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and strong communication skills set standout drivers apart when interacting with diverse passengers and handling challenging situations. These skills ensure passenger safety, efficient route operation, and a positive public transit experience.

What challenges do Metro Transit bus drivers face and how can they manage them?

Metro Transit Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules during peak traffic, ensuring passenger safety, and handling difficult or distressed riders. Effective communication, patience, and strong problem-solving skills are essential for managing these situations. Additionally, being familiar with route changes and practicing defensive driving can help drivers maintain service quality and safety. Transit agencies typically provide ongoing training and support resources to help drivers navigate these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Metro Transit Bus Driver vs Metro Transit Shuttle Driver?

AspectMetro Transit Bus DriverMetro Transit Shuttle Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentCity streets, bus terminals, urban routesShuttle pickups at specific locations, short routes
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, urban transportationPublic/private shuttle services, corporate campuses
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Metro Transit Bus Drivers and Shuttle Drivers both require a CDL with passenger endorsements and operate in public transit environments. Bus drivers typically cover longer urban routes, while shuttle drivers focus on short, point-to-point trips. Both roles serve the transportation industry but differ mainly in scope and route length.

How do I become a Metro Transit Bus Driver?

To become a Metro Transit Bus Driver, applicants typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and air brake endorsements, a clean driving record, and a background check. Candidates often undergo a training program that includes safety procedures, customer service skills, and route familiarization before starting the job.

How much do metro transit bus drivers make?

Metro Transit bus drivers typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, union agreements, and shift differentials. They often require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and must complete safety and training programs. Salaries can vary based on location and seniority.

What disqualifies you from being a Metro Transit Bus Driver?

Disqualifications for a Metro Transit Bus Driver typically include a history of serious traffic violations, a criminal record involving certain offenses, a poor driving record, or failing a background check. Candidates must also meet age, licensing, and health requirements, including a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) and a clean driving history. Substance abuse or failure to pass drug and alcohol tests can also disqualify applicants.

What are popular job titles related to Metro Transit Bus Driver jobs in Tennessee?

For Metro Transit Bus Driver jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Metro Transit Bus Driver jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Metro Transit Bus Driver jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Metro Transit Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Metro Transit Bus Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Metro Transit Bus Driver job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,392 per year, or $18 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

The City of Johnson City is accepting applications for a Transit Operator I position. The employee performs entry level semiskilled work operating a mass transit vehicle, collecting fares and overseeing the safety of passengers. The Transit Operator I operates a City passenger bus following a specific schedule and route as a relief or temporary driver. Demand-response service is provided which includes working on Saturdays. An employee in this class is under direct supervision of a trainer and/or transit supervisor. An operator is responsible for obtaining maintenance and repair work, and for making daily reports of distances travelled, passengers carried and fares collected. The work is also reviewed through the safe and satisfactory operation of the vehicle and is performed on a shift basis. The work involves driving one type of service daily.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: General knowledge of the principles and practices of bus operations; general knowledge of City and State regulations and laws pertaining to the operation of buses; general knowledge of driving courtesy and safety; ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions; ability to establish and maintain good public relations; and integrity. Corrected eyesight of 20/40. Good hand and eye coordination. Upper body strength to operate large vehicles (i.e. school bus, transit bus). Ability to learn traffic patterns and streets. Prolonged periods of sitting and driving.

Acceptable Experience and Training: Completion of high school or GED and some experience in driving a bus or equivalent vehicle; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. A CDL A, B, or C with Passenger endorsement is required and training is provided. Pre-employment DOT physical, drug screening, background check and motor vehicle record check required.

EEO/AA


This is a Safety Sensitive position subject to pre-employment, random and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing as allowed by law.