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Professional Bus Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Morgan County Schools

Bus Driver

Wartburg, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

... safe operating condition * ensure safety of students while riding the bus and while loading ... Operate a two-way radio in a professional manner * Prepare and maintain records * Knowledge:

Morgan County Schools

Bus Driver

Wartburg, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

... safe operating condition * ensure safety of students while riding the bus and while loading ... Operate a two-way radio in a professional manner * Prepare and maintain records * Knowledge:

Cocke County School District

Bus Driver

Newport, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $20/hr

Attends and participates in trainings, and other continuing education, career and professional ... Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License. * Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), class B with ...

Oneida School District #351

Bus Driver

Oneida, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Attends and participates in trainings, and other continuing education, career and professional ... Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License. * Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), class B with ...

Oneida School District #351

Bus Driver

Oneida, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Attends and participates in trainings, and other continuing education, career and professional ... Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License. * Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), class B with ...

Telamon Corporation

Bus Driver

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$19.24/hr

Ensures the bus is operating correctly including, but not limited to, checking the vehicle ... Actively engages in professional development activities to increase qualifications in accordance ...

Coffee County Schools

Bus Driver

Manchester, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $20/hr

Ensures safe, proper, and courteous motor vehicle operating procedures * Demonstrates positive ... Maintains ethical standards, which include professionalism and the protection of confidential ...

Coffee County Schools

Bus Driver

Manchester, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $20/hr

Ensures safe, proper, and courteous motor vehicle operating procedures * Demonstrates positive ... Maintains ethical standards, which include professionalism and the protection of confidential ...

KIPP

Bus Driver

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

This work requires operating a passenger bus or van on assigned routes or on a demand response ... Participate in school-wide and individual professional development, including three weeks during ...

KIPP

Bus Driver

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

This work requires operating a passenger bus or van on assigned routes or on a demand response ... Participate in school-wide and individual professional development, including three weeks during ...

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All JobsProfessional Bus Operator JobsProfessional Bus Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Professional Bus Operator information

What is a professional bus operator?

Professional bus operators are trained individuals responsible for safely driving buses along designated routes to transport passengers. They ensure passenger safety, adhere to traffic laws, assist riders with boarding and fare payment, and maintain schedules. In addition to driving, they often provide customer service, answer questions about routes, and handle emergency situations if they arise. Professional bus operators may work for public transit agencies, schools, or private companies, and typically require a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional bus operator?

To thrive as a Professional Bus Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), safe driving skills, and a strong understanding of traffic laws and routes. Familiarity with vehicle inspection procedures, fare collection systems, and sometimes GPS or scheduling software is often required. Excellent customer service, patience, and strong communication skills help operators interact effectively with passengers and handle challenging situations calmly. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring passenger safety, maintaining schedules, and providing a positive experience for riders.

How does a professional bus operator typically handle challenging passenger situations during a route?

Professional Bus Operators are trained to manage a variety of passenger interactions, including handling disputes, fare issues, or disruptions, with calm professionalism. They follow specific protocols provided by their transit agency, which may include de-escalation techniques and clear communication. Operators are supported by dispatch teams and, when necessary, security personnel to ensure safety for all passengers. Building rapport and staying attentive to the needs of diverse riders are important aspects of the role, making strong interpersonal skills valuable in this position.

What is the difference between Professional Bus Operator vs School Bus Driver?

AspectProfessional Bus OperatorSchool Bus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCDL with school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, charter services, private companiesSchool campuses, student transportation
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, private transportation companiesSchool districts, educational institutions

Both roles require a CDL with passenger or school bus endorsements and involve driving passengers. However, a Professional Bus Operator typically works in public transit or private charter services, while a School Bus Driver specializes in transporting students for school districts. The key differences lie in the work environment and specific endorsements needed, but both roles focus on safe passenger transportation.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Professional Bus Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Professional Bus Operator job openings:

Professional Bus Operator jobs near you

Bus Operator *NEW SIGN-ON BONUS*

Davidson Transit Organi

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Title:  Bus Operator

Purpose:  This position is responsible for keeping the ‘It’ City moving. Join the driving team of Full-Time Bus Operators and become a part of our story. 

 Wage: $27.03/Hour

 *NEW SIGN-ON BONUS*

  • $1000 - Non- CDL or CDL Permit
  • $2000 - CLD Class A or B with P-Endorsement    

Benefits: 

  • Paid CDL Training 
  • Health, Vision, Dental
  • On-Site Fitness Center
  • Uniform Allowance
  • Pension & Optional 401 K plan

Bus Operator Qualifications: 

  • Must be 21 years of age, with a high school diploma, GED or equivalent
  • Possess a valid Tennessee Driver’s License   
    • Have the ability to pass company provided paid Commercial Driver’s License   Training for (Class B) with a passenger/air brake endorsements Course
    • Must pass Department of Transportation (DOT) physical, breath alcohol test, drug screen, Health Performance Exam (HPE) and complete a background check
  • Available to work assigned scheduled including: days, nights, weekends and some holidays
  • Possess stable work history, with excellent record of attendance and punctuality 
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with passengers and staff
  • Ability to problem solve if situations arise on the bus 

Bus Operator Duties:

  1. Safely operate transit bus in strict compliance with WeGo Public Transit System polices, guidelines, and procedures, as well as follow all Tennessee and Federal laws and regulations
  2. Ability to adapt to constantly changing operating environments
  3. Demonstrate excellent customer service skills when interreacting with all passengers
  4. Perform all other duties as assigned

The principal duties are intended to describe those functions that are essential to the performance of this job and must be performed unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation. Other responsibilities are those functions which are considered incidental or secondary to the overall purpose of the job.  This job description does not imply that the above are the only duties assigned to the position. Employees may be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by management.

Similar roles include: School Bus Driver | Coach Bus Driver | Class B Driver

WeGo Public Transit also known as DTO is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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