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Sound Transit Driver Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Everett, WA · On-site

$39.31/hr

We are a leading employer in the Puget Sound region, based out of Everett, Washington. Community Transit drivers serve communities throughout Snohomish County and parts of King County. Grow your ...

Bus Driver

Everett, WA · On-site

$32.05/hr

We are a leading employer in the Puget Sound region, based out of Everett, Washington. Community Transit drivers serve communities throughout Snohomish County and parts of King County. Grow your ...

Operate a mass transit vehicle along designated routes and adhere to established schedules. Collect ... Must secure a Puget Sound Naval Shipyard security clearance. Must be at least 18 years old at the ...

Worker Driver

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$30.03/hr

Worker Driver Operators Opening Date: 01/01/2026 Purpose of the Job Eligibility: This position is ... As this position includes going to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Kitsap Transit is unable to ...

Survey CAD Technician

Seattle, WA · On-site

$33.07 - $41.34/hr

... Sound Transit's Link Light Rail Extensions and numerous projects for WSDOT and SDOT. Our busy ... Driver's License, or the ability to acquire one prior to employment Benefits and Compensation: We ...

Survey CAD Technician

Seattle, WA · On-site

$33.07 - $41.34/hr

... Sound Transit's Link Light Rail Extensions and numerous projects for WSDOT and SDOT. Our busy ... Driver's License, or the ability to acquire one prior to employment Benefits and Compensation: We ...

Survey Party Chief

Seattle, WA · On-site

$35.21 - $51.11/hr

... throughout the Puget Sound area, including Sound Transit's Link Light Rail Extensions ... A clean driving record and a valid Washington State Driver's License, or the ability to acquire one ...

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Sound Transit Driver information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$6

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How much do sound transit driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for sound transit driver in Seattle, WA is $17.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Sound Transit Drivers face during their shifts, and how are they supported in managing them?

Sound Transit Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating heavy traffic, adhering to tight schedules, and ensuring passenger safety and comfort. Dealing with unexpected delays, mechanical issues, or difficult passenger interactions can also be part of the daily experience. To support drivers, Sound Transit provides comprehensive training, access to real-time communication with dispatch, and protocols for handling emergencies. Additionally, teamwork with supervisors and maintenance staff helps drivers address issues quickly and maintain service quality.

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

AspectSound Transit DriverBus Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit buses, fixed routes within transit agenciesPublic transit buses, various routes and agencies
Employer & IndustrySound Transit, regional transit authorityVarious transit agencies, public transportation industry

Both Sound Transit Drivers and Bus Operators require a CDL with passenger endorsement and work in public transit environments. The main difference lies in their employer: Sound Transit Drivers work specifically for Sound Transit, serving regional routes, while Bus Operators may work for various transit agencies across different regions. Both roles focus on safe, reliable passenger transportation within the public transit industry.

How much does a BC Transit bus driver make?

A bus driver for BC Transit typically earns an average salary of around CAD 20 to CAD 25 per hour, depending on experience and location. The role requires a commercial driver's license and safety training, with schedules often including shifts during evenings and weekends.

What are Sound Transit drivers?

Sound Transit drivers are professional operators responsible for safely transporting passengers on Sound Transit buses, trains, and light rail vehicles in the Puget Sound region of Washington State. They ensure timely and secure travel, assist riders as needed, and follow all safety protocols and schedules. Drivers must have specialized training, a valid commercial driver's license, and excellent customer service skills. Their role is crucial in providing reliable public transportation to help reduce traffic congestion and support the community's mobility.

How much do TriMet employees make?

TriMet bus drivers and transit operators, including those in similar roles like Sound Transit drivers, typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $20 to $30, depending on experience and seniority. These positions often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, with schedules that may involve shift work and weekends.

What is the highest paying bus driver job?

The highest paying bus driver jobs are typically with transit agencies or private transportation companies that offer overtime, seniority-based pay, and additional benefits. Factors such as experience, certifications, and geographic location can also influence salary levels for bus drivers. Generally, transit authority drivers with advanced skills and longer tenure tend to earn the highest wages.

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

To thrive as a Sound Transit Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of transit routes and safety regulations. Familiarity with fare collection systems, GPS navigation, and onboard communication devices is typically required. Exceptional customer service, patience, and reliability are key soft skills that enhance rider experience and ensure smooth operations. These skills and qualities are essential for transporting passengers safely and efficiently while representing the transit agency professionally.

How much do light rail drivers make?

Light rail drivers, including those working for transit agencies, typically earn an average salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. In some areas, drivers may also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and they often need a valid commercial driver's license or specialized training.
What are popular job titles related to Sound Transit Driver jobs in Seattle, WA? For Sound Transit Driver jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sound Transit Driver jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Sound Transit Driver jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Sound Transit Driver jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Sound Transit Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Sound Transit Driver job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,866 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Tacoma Link Rail Service Specialist

ST Public Branding

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$44.23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Tacoma Link Rail Service Specialist

Salary range is $21.63/hour to $44.23 with a midpoint of $28.37/hour. New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market. Sound Transit also offers a competitive benefits package with a wide range of offerings, including: Health Benefits: We offer two choices of medical plans, a dental plan, and a vision plan all at no cost for employee coverage; comprehensive benefits for employees and eligible dependents, including a spouse or domestic partner. Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance. Employee Assistance Program. Retirement Plans: 401a – 10% of employee contribution with a 12% match by Sound Transit; 457b – up to IRS maximum (employee only contribution). Paid Time Off: Employees accrue 25 days of paid time off annually with increases at four, eight and twelve years of service. Employees at the director level and up accrue additional days. We also observe 12 paid holidays and provide up to 2 paid floating holidays and up to 2 paid volunteer days per year. Parental Leave: 12 weeks of parental leave for new parents. Pet Insurance discount. ORCA Card: All full-time employees will receive an ORCA card at no cost. Tuition Reimbursement: Sound Transit will pay up to $5,000 annually for approved tuition expenses. Inclusive Reproductive Health Support Services. Compensation Practices: We offer competitive salaries based on market rates and internal equity. In addition to compensation and benefits, you'll find that we provide work-life balance, opportunities for professional development and recognition from your colleagues.

General Purpose: Under general direction, maintains the cleanliness of the interior and exterior of the Light Rail Vehicle (LRV), Non-Revenue Vehicles (NRV), various rail stations platforms, Right of Way (ROW) and related service areas. Operates LRVs for servicing and maintenance purposes. Practices safe work processes and contributes to the creation and maintenance of a safe working environment for self and others. Performs related work as assigned.

Essential Functions:

  • Clean the interior & exterior of LRVs by hand washing, mopping, sweeping, and steam cleaning, using cleaning chemicals and solutions.
  • Report any defects to systems maintenance supervisor or lead, such as defective lights, body damage, interior damage, and operating defects.
  • Check and fill LRV sand boxes to appropriate levels when necessary.
  • Operates, moves LRV's within yard limits and maintenance facility.
  • Performs LRV yard staging under the direction of the systems maintenance supervisor or lead at the OMF for daily revenue service operation.
  • Assist maintenance department as necessary in the completion of preventive maintenance and servicing.
  • Cleans maintenance facility shop floors, parking areas, LRV storage yard, station platforms, and general ROW areas.
  • Secure office and shop areas as directed.
  • Safely operate and maintain a variety of equipment such as steamers, ground/floor scrubbers, pressure washers, and upholstery equipment.
  • Prioritize emergency tasks in the absence of supervisor; respond to emergency calls as necessary.
  • Graffiti removal.
  • Lifts, moves, and dumps trash containers.
  • Pickup or deliver parts or materials from other locations.
  • Operate company assigned vehicles and light rail vehicles.
  • Assist in training other fellow employees.
  • Champions and models Sound Transit's core values and demonstrates values-based behaviors in everyday interactions across the agency.
  • Contributes to a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion in alignment with Sound Transit's Equity & Inclusion Policy.
  • It is the responsibility of all employees to follow the Agency safety rules, regulations, and procedures pertaining to their assigned duties and responsibilities, which could include systems, operations, and/or other employees.
  • It is the responsibility of all employees to integrate sustainability into everyday business practices.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience: High School Diploma/GED and successful completion of training and post-training qualification period or closely related field. Two years of experience in the maintenance and cleaning of facilities is highly desirable; Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Additional Demands/Requirements: This position is considered safety sensitive. It requires a DOT physical that meets standard to qualify for at least a one-year certification under 49 CFR 391.4, and recertification as needed, and a negative drug test. Following is a description of the circumstances for testing as required by Federal regulations 49 CFR Part 655: random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return to duty and follow-up drug and alcohol testing in compliance with Federal Transit Authority DOT alcohol and controlled substances testing program protocols. Required Licenses or Certifications: Valid state driver's License and a satisfactory driving record (with no more than 1 violation in the past 12 months, exclusive of DUI and reckless driving) is required as part of the DOT Certification. Must be able to pass Sound Transit LRV operation certification course. Obtain forklift certification. (Provided by Sound Transit) Must be able to get medically qualified to wear a half-mask respirator. Must obtain a DOT certification.

Required Knowledge and Skills: Pertinent traffic laws, ordinances, and safety rules in the operation of light rail vehicles. Knowledge of basic janitorial techniques. Knowledge in the use and care of cleaning equipment. Knowledge of basic safety rules and applicable OSHA laws. Standard safety precautions. Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations. Knowledge in the proper use and disposal of cleaning chemicals. Knowledge in the use and care of tools and equipment. English language usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and computer applications such as word processing and spreadsheets. Communicate in a clear, understandable and concise manner in English both orally and in writing. Use supplies and equipment in a safe and effective manner. Learn and apply Sound Transit policies and procedures. Work independently for long periods of time and as a positive team member. Operate LRVs and other vehicles according to rules and procedures in a safe manner. Learn and follow established safety practices. Understand and follow guidelines including the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for handling of toxic and/or caustic chemicals and other hazardous materials including blood borne pathogens. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the performance of work duties. Comply with Sound Transits drug and alcohol policy for safety sensitive employees.

Physical Demands / Work Environment: Work is performed in a hybrid field, shop, warehouse, transit vehicles, and office environments. Work is performed on-site, 5 days per week. Positions working in field may occasionally be exposed to dangerous machinery, extreme weather conditions, physical harm, hazardous chemicals, and/or extreme noise. This position is responsible for bringing tools, ladders, and other supplies; may be subject to bending, climbing, crawling, eye/hand coordination, grasping, hearing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, reaching, repetitive motion, sitting, standing, talking, seeing, walking, and carrying and lifting over 50 pounds. Position may require on-call and weekend and night shifts as role is part of a 24/7, 365 operation. The Agency promotes a safe and healthy work environment and provides appropriate safety and equipment training for all personnel as required. Sound Transit is an equal employment opportunity employer. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment action based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status or other protected class. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities