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Paratransit Driver Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Now Hiring DRIVERS Paid Training Classes Starting Immediately - Secure Your Seat Today! Drivers are responsible for safely operating a transit motor vehicle. The Driver will provide exceptional ...

Driver

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$26.78/hr

Drivers are responsible for safely operating a transit motor vehicle. The Driver will provide exceptional customer service in a safe, reliable, and efficient manner. * Many opportunities for growth ...

Now Hiring DRIVERS @ $26.78/hour!!! Paid Training Classes Starting Immediately - Secure Your Seat Today! Drivers are responsible for safely operating a transit motor vehicle. The Driver will provide ...

Drivers are responsible for safely operating a transit motor vehicle. The Driver will provide exceptional customer service in a safe, reliable, and efficient manner. * Many opportunities for growth ...

Paid Training to become a professional Driver. * Opportunities for long-term career growth beyond driving! * We offer full Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Life Insurance for qualified ...

Driver

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$29.65/hr

Paid Training to become a professional Driver. * Opportunities for long-term career growth beyond driving! * We offer full Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Life Insurance for qualified ...

Driver

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$29.65/hr

Paid Training to become a professional Driver. * Opportunities for long-term career growth beyond driving! * We offer full Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Life Insurance for qualified ...

Driver

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$22/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Our Driver will ensure the safe transportation of our residents to and from various destinations, such as appointments or activity group outings, assisting them with safe onboarding ...

Driver

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$22/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Our Driver will ensure the safe transportation of our residents to and from various destinations, such as appointments or activity group outings, assisting them with safe onboarding ...

Driver

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$22/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Our Driver will ensure the safe transportation of our residents to and from various destinations, such as appointments or activity group outings, assisting them with safe onboarding ...

Driver

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Drivers are responsible for safely operating a transit motor vehicle. The Driver will provide exceptional customer service in a safe, reliable, and efficient manner. * Many opportunities for growth ...

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Paratransit Driver information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

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$18

$24

How much do paratransit driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for paratransit driver in Santa Rosa, CA is $18.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Paratransit Driver?

A paratransit driver, or paratransit operator, drives a specialized vehicle for the transportation of those with medical and mobility challenges. In paratransit driver jobs, your responsibilities include the safe operation of your vehicle, which may be large and require superb handling skills, and ensuring the safety and comfort of each passenger. You must accommodate passengers with a variety of disabilities, mobility devices, and medical equipment. While there are no education requirements, you will need a driver’s license, a clean driving record, and the ability to pass a drug and background check. In some states, you may need either a special license or an additional certificate to operate a paratransit vehicle. Paratransit drivers often work for the local government, but you may also find positions with private transportation services or medical institutions.

What challenges might a Paratransit Driver face when assisting passengers with special mobility needs?

Paratransit Drivers often encounter challenges such as ensuring the safe and comfortable boarding and exiting of passengers who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids. They must be skilled at operating vehicle lifts, securing mobility devices, and communicating patiently with individuals who may have cognitive or sensory disabilities. Additionally, drivers need to manage tight schedules while accommodating varying passenger needs, which requires flexibility, empathy, and strong problem-solving skills. Collaborating with dispatchers and caregivers is also crucial to provide timely and safe service.

What are Paratransit Drivers?

Paratransit drivers are transportation professionals who provide specialized transit services for people with disabilities or mobility challenges. They operate accessible vehicles, such as vans or minibuses, designed to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Paratransit drivers assist passengers with boarding and exiting the vehicle, ensure their safety during the trip, and follow specific routes and schedules tailored to the needs of each rider. Their role is crucial in helping individuals maintain independence and access essential services within their communities.

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

To thrive as a Paratransit Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (often with passenger endorsements), a clean driving record, and knowledge of safe driving practices for transporting individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. Familiarity with scheduling and dispatch software, wheelchair lifts, and GPS navigation systems is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to handle stressful situations make drivers stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the safety, comfort, and dignity of passengers while providing reliable and accessible transportation services.

What is the difference between Paratransit Driver vs Bus Driver?

AspectParatransit DriverBus Driver
CredentialsValid driver's license, passenger assistance trainingValid commercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentTransporting passengers with disabilities or mobility issues, often on demandTransporting general public on fixed routes
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, specialized transportation servicesPublic transit authorities, private bus companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Paratransit Drivers and Bus Drivers operate vehicles for transit agencies, Paratransit Drivers focus on transporting passengers with disabilities or mobility challenges, often on demand. Bus Drivers typically operate on fixed routes serving the general public. The credentials overlap in requiring a valid driver's license, but Paratransit Drivers may need additional passenger assistance training. Work environments differ mainly in passenger needs and route structure, but both roles are essential in public transportation systems.

What job categories do people searching Paratransit Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Paratransit Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Paratransit Driver jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Paratransit Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Paratransit Driver job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,251 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

$32.57/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 hours ago


Job description

About CVNL:

Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership (CVNL) is dedicated to advancing nonprofits and volunteerism by strengthening leadership, encouraging innovation, and empowering individuals in our community. CVNL has been building the capacity of volunteers and nonprofits for more than 50 years, and continues to adapt and evolve, leveraging powerful tools and technologies to make it easier for volunteers to engage and for organizations to promote volunteer opportunities.

Care. Connect. Contribute.

The Sonoma County Paratransit (SCPT) Department provides a vital service to the some of the most vulnerable populations in Sonoma County. With care, compassion and sensitivity our Drivers and CSR’s are the frontline workers providing this integral service, connecting our clientele to the community. This contribution to our community is a source of pride for CVNL.

Position Overview

Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership (CVNL) is seeking a Paratransit Driver. Reporting to the Director of Paratransit, the driver is responsible for driving a paratransit vehicle and assisting disabled and elderly clients on and off the vehicle. Drivers will handle clients in wheelchairs and operate wheelchair lifts and ramps on a daily basis. Due to the nature of our services and diverse clientele, Paratransit Driver positions require a flexible schedule. Paratransit Drivers must thrive in compassionately making a difference in the lives of others, communicate with integrity and grace while under pressure, and enjoy working within a team culture. A commercial license is NOT required for this position.


Responsibilities

  • Assist passengers on and off vehicles
  • Ensure the safety of disabled or frail clients by providing appropriate physical support
  • Push, pull and steer large wheelchairs up and down ramps
  • Operate wheelchair lifts and properly secure wheelchairs in vehicles
  • Accurately record and maintain paperwork
  • Communicate using a two-way radio system
  • Operate a computer tablet
  • Promptly report vehicle repair needs
  • Demonstrate a positive, open and support attitude to clients and co-workers
  • Participate in ongoing staff development for department
  • Attend and participate in company-wide and departmental staff meetings


Work Environment

  • Occasionally drive in a variety of road and weather conditions
  • Frequently work outside
  • Occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and vibration
  • Frequently required to sit, talk and hear
  • Constantly required to use hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms
  • Occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl and walk
  • Occasionally lift up to 50 pounds and push up to 300 pounds (wheelchair clients)
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus

Requirements

  • Possess a valid State of California driver’s license (CDL)
  • Have an acceptable Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) H-6 report and insurability at normal risk rates
  • Thorough knowledge of traffic laws and defensive driving techniques
  • Ability to safely drive various vehicles under varying weather conditions
  • Willingness to drive up to 200+ miles per day
  • Successfully complete a pre-employment Department of Transportation (DOT) drug test and physical
  • Ongoing compliance with Department of Transportation FTA required drug screening
  • Successfully complete a safety road test administered by center (post-hire)
  • Familiarity with geographical area and the ability to read street maps and GPS
  • Achieve and maintain CPR and First Aid certification
  • Comfortable operating a tablet and use of basic technology
  • Sensitivity and compassion for elderly and physically and/or emotionally disabled individuals
  • Ability to use good judgment and work independently
  • Flexibility and willingness to work for and with a variety of people
  • Experience working with elderly and disabled desired
  • Knowledge of HIPAA rules and regulations desired
  • Volunteer or community service experience desired

Benefits

  • Vacation: 12 days in year 1, 15 days in year 2, 20 days in year 5.
  • Sick: 11 Sick days per year
  • Holidays: 13 days observed (12 Fixed Holidays and 1 Floating Holiday)
  • Health Insurance with base plan 100% covered by employer beginning 1st of month after hire.
  • Vision and Dental Insurance.
  • 403B Retirement Plans with 3.5% employer contribution after 12 months.
  • Staff have regular opportunities to participate in professional development workshops and classes offered at CVNL

Compensation:
The budgeted starting hourly rate that CVNL reasonably expects to pay is $23.77-24.96 depending on prior experience. Up to $32.57/hr with tenure. This takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, external market comparisons for similar positions in similar geographic locations and size. Offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

CVNL is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of qualifications. The Agency policy prohibits unlawful discrimination in any employment decision based on pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, race, religious creed, color, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, age, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law or ordinance or regulation.