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Public Transit Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Johnson City

Transit Operator I

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$19.72/hr

The Transit Operator I operates a City passenger bus following a specific schedule and route as a ... maintain good public relations; and integrity. Corrected eyesight of 20/40. Good hand and eye ...

City of Johnson City

Transit Operator I

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$19.72/hr

The Transit Operator I operates a City passenger bus following a specific schedule and route as a ... maintain good public relations; and integrity. Corrected eyesight of 20/40. Good hand and eye ...

Manatee County Government

Transit Operator

Tallevast, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Job Title Transit Operator This classification performs skilled vehicle operation work in ... Work involves responsibility for safe and efficient transportation of the general public ...

Manatee County Government

Transit Operator

Bradenton, FL · On-site

$19.51 - $29.26/hr

Work involves responsibility for safe and efficient transportation of the general public ... To be employed as a Transit Operator, must meet the physical qualifications to operate a bus ...

Manatee County, FL

Transit Operator

Bradenton, FL · On-site

$19.51 - $29.26/hr

Public Works Opening Date: 07/16/2026 Closing Date: 9/10/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Max Number of ... To be employed as a Transit Operator, must meet the physical qualifications to operate a bus ...

City of Yakima, WA

Temporary - Transit Operator

Yakima, WA · On-site

$22.23 - $27.91/hr

Public Works Division: Transit Opening Date: 01/01/2026 Bargaining Unit: AFSCME Initial candidate ... Temporary operators may be eligible for promotion to a permanent operator position. ****ADDITIONAL ...

City of Las Cruces, NM

Transit Operator I

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

$16.76/hr

Operating transit vehicles in a safe manner, in compliance with all traffic laws, City policy and ... the public; safely and effectively operate relevant tools, equipment, and motorized vehicles ...

City of Petersburg

Transit Operator

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$26K - $43K/yr

People include co-workers, workers in other areas or agencies and the general public. Serves others ... Requires six months experience in operating large automotive equipment on the open highway and on ...

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Public Transit Operator information

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How much do public transit operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for public transit operator in the United States is $19.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public transit operator?

Public transit operators are professionals responsible for driving and managing vehicles such as buses, trains, or streetcars that provide transportation services to the public. They ensure passengers are transported safely and efficiently along designated routes, adhere to schedules, collect fares, and provide customer service. In addition to operating the vehicle, they may also assist passengers with boarding, answer questions about routes, and respond to emergencies or unexpected situations during transit.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public transit operator?

To thrive as a Public Transit Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and thorough knowledge of transit routes and safety regulations. Familiarity with fare collection systems, vehicle communication devices, and scheduling software is commonly expected. Excellent customer service skills, patience, and strong situational awareness help operators handle passenger interactions and unexpected situations effectively. These skills and qualities ensure safe, reliable transportation and positive experiences for both passengers and the transit agency.

What are some common challenges faced by public transit operators in their daily work, and how can they be managed?

Public transit operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining schedules during heavy traffic, handling difficult passenger interactions, and adapting to changing routes or service disruptions. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and a calm demeanor are essential for overcoming these challenges. Many transit agencies offer training and support resources to help operators develop these skills and manage stress, contributing to a safer and more positive experience for both operators and passengers.

What is the difference between Public Transit Operator vs Bus Driver?

AspectPublic Transit OperatorBus Driver
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), possibly with passenger endorsementCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsement often required
Work EnvironmentPublic transit vehicles, bus depots, on routes in urban/suburban areasBus routes, urban/suburban roads, bus terminals
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, government or municipal transit authoritiesPrivate or public bus companies, transit agencies
Job FocusOperate transit vehicles, ensure passenger safety, follow schedulesOperate buses, ensure passenger safety, adhere to routes and schedules

Public Transit Operators and Bus Drivers often share similar credentials, work environments, and employer types. The main difference is that 'Public Transit Operator' is a broader term encompassing various transit vehicles, while 'Bus Driver' specifically refers to operating buses. Both roles focus on safe vehicle operation and passenger service within transit systems.

Who are the top companies hiring for Public Transit Operator jobs?

The top employers for Public Transit Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Public Transit Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Transit Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Public Transit Operator jobs?

For Public Transit Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Public Transit Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Transit Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,576 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Transit Operator I

Johnson City, TN • On-site

City of Johnson City, TN
See more jobs at City of Johnson City, TNexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 29 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.

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