ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Transit Bus Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Los Angeles Metro

BUS OPERATOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28.81 - $34.93/hr

Description Under direct supervision, operates public transit buses, transports passengers ... Differs from Bus Operator (Full-time) in that Bus Operator (Part-time) works less than 40 hours per ...

RATP Dev USA

Bus Operator

Camarillo, CA

$20.25 - $26/hr

Bus Drivers are responsible for safely operating transit vehicles, providing excellent customer service, following scheduled routes, and ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely and on ...

RATP DEV USA

Bus Operator

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $26/hr

Bus Drivers are responsible for safely operating transit vehicles, providing excellent customer service, following scheduled routes, and ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely and on ...

Transdev

Public Transit Bus Driver

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$40.50/hr

Bus Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in ... As an operator and global integrator of mobility, we are driven by our purpose. Transdev - the ...

Transdev

Public Transit Bus Driver

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$40.50/hr

Bus Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in ... As an operator and global integrator of mobility, we are driven by our purpose. Transdev - the ...

WeDriveU

Transit CDL Driver - Part time

Fresno, CA · On-site

$23.02/hr

... bus and rail passengers on four continents. Visit wedriveu.com to learn more about our company ... Provides safe and reliable transportation service to passengers by operating position specific ...

WeDriveU

Transit CDL Driver - Part time

Fresno, CA · On-site

$23.02/hr

Provides safe and reliable transportation service to passengers by operating position specific vehicles which may include sedans, vans, paratransit vans, limousines, taxi-cabs, shuttles, transit ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTransit Bus Operator JobsTransit Bus Operator Jobs in California

Transit Bus Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$19

$26

How much do transit bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit bus operator in California is $20.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a transit bus operator?

Transit Bus Operators are professionals responsible for driving buses along designated routes to transport passengers safely and efficiently. They pick up and drop off riders at scheduled stops, collect fares, and provide information or assistance to passengers as needed. In addition to driving, they ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, adhere to traffic laws, and may assist people with disabilities. Transit Bus Operators often work for city or regional transportation agencies and play a vital role in public transportation systems.

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

To thrive as a Transit Bus Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and thorough knowledge of traffic laws and safety procedures. Familiarity with fare collection systems, GPS navigation, and basic vehicle maintenance tools is typically required. Exceptional customer service, patience, and strong communication skills help operators handle diverse passengers and unexpected situations. These competencies are vital for ensuring passenger safety, schedule reliability, and positive public interactions on daily routes.

What does a transit bus operator do?

The primary responsibilities of a transit bus operator or driver are to transport passengers along a pre-assigned route. They have designated stops where they collect the fare from each passenger. It is important to make these stops on schedule. A transit bus operator also performs basic maintenance duties, such as checking the oil, tires, lights, and cleanliness of the vehicle. Qualifications to become a transit bus operator or driver include a commercial driver's license with a passenger endorsement,

What are some common challenges transit bus operators face during their shifts, and how are they supported in handling them?

Transit Bus Operators often encounter challenges such as traffic congestion, schedule adherence, and managing interactions with a diverse range of passengers. They may also face unexpected route changes or inclement weather conditions. Transit agencies typically provide training in customer service and defensive driving, as well as real-time communication with dispatchers to offer support during difficult situations. Many employers also offer wellness programs and peer support networks to help operators manage the physical and emotional demands of the job.

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

AspectTransit Bus OperatorSchool Bus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, often a school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentUrban or suburban public transit systems, city streetsSchool campuses, residential areas, school routes
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, governmentSchool districts, private or public schools
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Transit Bus Operators and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsements and work in vehicle operation within their respective environments. Transit Bus Operators typically serve public transit systems in urban areas, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students to and from school. Despite differences in routes and settings, the skills and certifications needed are quite similar, making them comparable roles in the transportation industry.

More about Transit Bus Operator jobs

What cities in California are hiring for Transit Bus Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Transit Bus Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Transit Bus Operator jobs in CA?

For Transit Bus Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Transit Bus Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transit Bus Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,598 per year, or $20 per hour.

BruinBus Transit Operator

The Regents of the University of California on behalf of their Los Angeles Campus

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$36.13/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Transport students, staff, faculty, and the public using heavy duty CNG fueled buses, coach buses, trolleys, passenger vans, and cars for shuttle programs and charter services.

  • Maintain accurate logs and records related to driving activities and vehicle performance.

  • Operate and monitor vehicles safely, including handling complex procedures on CNG fueling, using mapping tools, and detecting irregular vehicle performance.

Job description

Special Instructions to Applicants
The budgeted hiring salary/target range for this position is from $25.87 - $27.43 hourly, with salary placement based on skills, knowledge, and experience.
Position Summary
Under the general supervision of the Assistant Transit Operations Manager, provide driver services of heavy duty CNG fueled buses, coach buses and trolleys, passenger vans and cars to transport students, staff, faculty, and the public through shuttle programs and charter services for both on and off campus.
Salary & Compensation
*UCLA provides a full pay range. Actual salary offers consider factors, including budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations. Salary offers at the top of the range are not common. Visit UC Benefit package to discover benefits that start on day one, and UC Total Compensation Estimator to calculate the total compensation value with benefits.
Qualifications
  • Bus Driving Experience Must have one (1) year minimum bus driving experience. (Required)
  • Knowledge of driving laws as specified in the California Vehicle Code. Skill in the safe operation of various passenger vehicles to provide transportation as directed. (Required)
  • Skill in establishing/maintaining tactful relationships with supervisors, passengers, co-workers. Skill in relaying information to passengers politely, clearly, and effectively. (Required)
  • Ability to maintain accurate, legible logs and records. (Required)
  • Ability to use Push To Talk (PTT) radio and/or cellular phone for communication purposes. (Required)
  • Ability to use Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) system for proper vehicle tracking. (Preferred)
  • Ability to participate in safety training/certification programs. (Required)
  • Ability to handle complex procedures on CNG vehicle fueling and fuel monitoring. (Preferred)
  • Ability to use wheelchair lifts, ramps and other special equipment. (Preferred)
  • Ability to detect irregular vehicle performance in order to recognize required maintenance or repairs. (Required)
  • Ability to use mapping tools such as Mapquest, Google Maps and Thomas Guide for selecting event routing. (Required)
  • Knowledge of UCLA campus, it surroundings and greater Los Angeles area preferred. (Preferred)
  • Ability to maintain excellent attendance and punctuality in order to meet specific deadlines. Ability to work extended hours, when needed to meet all departmental responsibilities. (Required)

    • Education, Licenses, Certifications & Personal Affiliations
  • Must possess/maintain a valid class B California driver's license with air brake and passenger endorsement. (Required)
  • Ability to obtain/maintain a current medical certificate with DMV/DOT. (Required)

    • Special Conditions for Employment
  • Background Check: Continued employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.
  • Age Requirement: Candidate(s) must be 18 years or older to be eligible to be hired.
  • Drug Test: Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory drug test.
  • Department of Transportation: The position is subject to Department of Transportation regulations. The candidate(s) successful completion of drug screening is required. Continued employment is contingent upon participation in a Drug and Alcohol Testing Program.
  • Driving Record: The position is subject to the California DMV "Pull Notice System" and continued employment is contingent upon proof of a satisfactory driving record.

    • Schedule
    Varies
    Union/Policy Covered
    SX-Service
    Complete Position Description
    https://universityofcalifornia.marketpayjobs.com/ShowJob.aspx?EntityID=38&JDName=Auto%20Equipment%20Operator%20Principal%20(TBD_329)

    Apply