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Professional Bus Operator Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Professional Bus Operator information

See Decatur, GA salary details

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How much do professional bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional bus operator in Decatur, GA is $21.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.56 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Decatur, GA are hiring for Professional Bus Operator jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Professional Bus Operator job openings:

Paratransit Bus Operator Full-Time (Non-CDL) 1-26 KM

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Paratransit Bus Operator (Non-CDL)

The A National brand has been in the transportation arena for more than 35 years! And we have a long history of providing safe and reliable transportation services to individuals all across the country.

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 for a minimum of three (3) consecutive years
  • No driver's license suspensions or serious violations within the past three (3) years
  • 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 2–3 years of verifiable professional driving experience
  • Experience must be in a structured work environment (paratransit, shuttle, bus, medical transport, school transportation, commercial fleet, or similar)
  • Rideshare (Uber/Lyft), food delivery, or app-based driving alone does not meet this requirement unless supplemented with verifiable structured driving employment
  • 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 3 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.