ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Paratransit Operator Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsParatransit Operator JobsParatransit Operator Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Paratransit Operator information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$11

$19

$27

How much do paratransit operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for paratransit operator in Atlanta, GA is $19.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $21.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paratransit operator?

A paratransit operator drives a van or bus and transports people with medical mobility issues. In this career, you usually work through a transportation service on a fixed route to pick up and safely transport people. You operate different vehicles such as buses and vans that are usually equipped with ramps, so you need to know how to use this kind of specialized equipment. Your job duties may include strapping down wheelchairs, assisting passengers into their seats at pick up, and helping them out of the vehicle at drop off. One of your primary responsibilities is ensuring passenger safety during your drive.

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

To thrive as a Paratransit Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, knowledge of local routes, and basic vehicle safety understanding. Familiarity with scheduling software, GPS navigation systems, and wheelchair lift operations is typically required. Patience, strong interpersonal skills, and reliability are crucial soft skills for assisting passengers with special needs and ensuring a safe, respectful environment. These competencies are essential for providing dependable, accessible transportation and maintaining passenger safety and satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by paratransit operators, and how can they prepare for them?

Paratransit Operators often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, assisting passengers with varying mobility needs, and navigating unpredictable traffic or weather conditions. To prepare, operators benefit from strong time management, patience, and effective communication skills. Training typically includes hands-on instruction in vehicle operation, safety protocols, and customer service, which helps operators respond confidently to daily demands and provide safe, reliable service to all riders.

What is the difference between Paratransit Operator vs Bus Driver?

AspectParatransit OperatorBus Driver
CredentialsDriver's license, sometimes specialized certificationsCommercial driver's license (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTransporting passengers with disabilities or special needs, often on demandDriving fixed-route buses on scheduled routes
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, specialized transportation servicesPublic transit agencies, private bus companies

Paratransit Operators and Bus Drivers both operate vehicles for transit agencies, but Paratransit Operators focus on transporting passengers with disabilities on demand, requiring specific certifications and a more personalized service environment. Bus Drivers typically operate scheduled routes with the general public, often with a CDL. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit in the transit industry.

More about Paratransit Operator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Paratransit Operator jobs in Atlanta, GA?

For Paratransit Operator jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Paratransit Operator jobs in Atlanta, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Paratransit Operator jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

Paratransit Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paratransit Operator job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,326 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Paratransit Bus Operator-Full-Time(Non-CDL)

A National Transit

Hapeville, GA • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Paratransit Bus Operator (Non-CDL)
Location: Hapeville, GA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Department: Operations / Transportation


Position Summary
Paratransit Bus Operators are responsible for providing safe, reliable, and professional transportation services to passengers with disabilities and other eligible riders. This is a safety-sensitive role operating in a 24/7 environment. Operators must demonstrate strong defensive driving skills, professionalism, and strict adherence to safety, attendance, and compliance standards. This role is ideal for individuals who are dependable, structured, safety-focused, and able to work in a highly regulated transportation environment. Candidates seeking flexible or limited schedules should not apply.


Key Responsibilities
• Safely transport passengers according to assigned routes and manifests
• Provide respectful boarding, securement, and de-boarding assistance, including mobility devices (wheelchairs, walkers, etc.)
• Operate vehicles in compliance with DOT, ADA, company, and traffic regulations
• Complete required pre-trip and post-trip inspections and report defects immediately
• Maintain communication with dispatch/control center
• Accurately complete trip documentation
• Respond professionally to service disruptions, delays, or passenger concerns
• Maintain a clean, safe, and professional vehicle environment
• Demonstrate defensive driving techniques at all times
• Uphold a professional appearance and customer-focused demeanor throughout each shift


Minimum Qualifications (Non-Negotiable)
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license
• Must have been a licensed driver
• No driver’s license suspensions or serious violations 
• Must pass a criminal background check, DOT physical, and drug and alcohol screening
• Must be able to speak, read, and understand English proficiently
• Must maintain a valid DOT medical card throughout employment


 Professional Driving Experience Requirement
• Must have a minimum of 6 months- 1 year of verifiable professional driving experience
• Experience must be in a structured work environment (paratransit, shuttle, bus, medical transport, school transportation, commercial fleet, or similar)
• All driving experience must be verifiable through prior employers


Resume & Employment Verification Requirement
• Applicants must submit a current and fully updated resume
• Resume must include complete employment history with company names, position titles, and month/year dates of employment
• Incomplete, outdated, or unverifiable resumes may delay or impact consideration
• Compensation placement is determined based on verified experience, performance, and attendance


Availability Requirements (Critical)
• Must be fully available and flexible to work ALL shifts
• Start times may occur anytime between 3:00 AM and 4:00 PM
• Operations run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• No fixed schedule is guaranteed
• Candidates with limited availability or fixed scheduling needs should not apply


Training Commitment Requirement
• New Hire Training is approximately 4 weeks and is mandatory
• Full attendance during training is required
• Absences during training are not permitted except for pre-approved, documented emergencies
• Documentation may be required for any absence
• Failure to meet training attendance standards may result in disqualification or termination


Attendance & Reliability Standards
• This is a safety-sensitive role requiring consistent and dependable attendance
• Operators must report to assigned shifts on time and as scheduled
• Personal reasons without documentation will not be considered excused absences
• Attendance patterns that negatively impact operations may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination


Compensation
Training Pay: $16.00 per hour
Post-Training Pay: $17.00 – $20.00 per hour based on verified professional driving experience, performance, and attendance


Benefits
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off (after one year of employment)


Important Candidate Notice
This position requires strict adherence to safety, attendance, and compliance standards. Applicants unable to meet licensing, screening, availability, or training requirements will not be eligible for employment.