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Transit Bus Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Bus Operator 35 Hours

Loveland, CO · On-site

$24 - $30.74/hr

The Bus Operator with COLT will operate with a commitment to the One City, One Team approach ... Safely transports passengers either in transit or paratransit vehicles. * Assures all passengers ...

Bus Operator 35 Hours

Loveland, CO · On-site

$24 - $30.74/hr

The Bus Operator with COLT will operate with a commitment to the One City, One Team approach ... Safely transports passengers either in transit or paratransit vehicles. * Assures all passengers ...

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How much do transit bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit bus operator in Colorado is $21.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $23.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Transit Bus Operators?

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Transit Bus Operator jobs in CO? For Transit Bus Operator jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Bus Operator 35 Hours

Bus Operator 35 Hours

City of Loveland, CO

Loveland, CO • On-site

$24 - $30.74/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


City Of Loveland (Colorado) rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 648 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary:

Transports City of Loveland residents, which includes seniors, persons with disabilities, general public, and students in a skillful, caring, responsible and safe manner. This position reports to the Operations Supervisor.

The work schedule for this position is varying hours and includes early mornings, late evenings, holidays, special assignments and events

The salary range for this position is $24.00- $30.74 per hour with a hiring range of $24.00 - $26.76, depending on qualifications and experience.   This opportunity will be remain open until filled.

This is a 35 hour per week benefitted position. 

The Bus Operator with COLT will operate with a commitment to the One City, One Team approach, positively collaborate with team members and residents, and show a dedication to excellent service with courtesy and kindness!

Essential Functions:

  • Provides superior customer service to a diverse population of clients.
  • Safely transports passengers either in transit or paratransit vehicles.
  • Assures all passengers are treated in a respectful, friendly manner, while encouraging a safe environment.
  • Daily performs pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections and records the results on the Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR).
  • Communicates any vehicle deficiency to the Operations Supervisor.

Other Job Functions:

  • May be assigned to bus cleaning rotation which consists of moving buses into the shop facility, loose item collection, exterior window cleaning (time permitting), exterior mirror cleaning and running the bus through the bus wash (weather permitting).
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Required Education:

  • High School Graduate or GED.

Preferred Education:

  • Training in Passenger Assistance Techniques, including sensitivity training for persons with disabilities, drug and alcohol awareness and defensive driving desired.

Preferred Experience:

  • Some experience related to transporting passengers and/or working with the disabled is highly desirable.

Certifications:

  • A valid Class A or B Commercial Driver's license (CDL) with P passenger endorsement and no air brake restrictions required.
    • Possession of a Class B CDL learner's permit prior to start date, with the ability to obtain a class B CDL with a P passenger endorsement within two (2) months of hire date may substitute. COLT will provide necessary training to obtain Class B CDL with passenger endorsement.
  • Must possess current CPR and First Aid certification, or have ability to obtain certifications within six (6) months of hire date.

The CDL license training is subject to the condition that you must repay the City of Loveland three thousand dollars, $3,000.00 in the event you resign or you are terminated for cause within twenty-four (24) months after your starting date with the City.  In such event, you irrevocably authorize repayment of the cost by set-off from any final payment of compensation or reimbursement due to you from the City.  Any remaining balance shall be paid in certified funds within thirty (30) days of such resignation or termination date. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Superior customer service skills.
  • Make sound judgments and exhibit patience when dealing with stressful situations.
  • Follow instructions and communications in both oral and written form.
  • Communicate in a positive, friendly and professional manner with passengers, staff and the general public.
  • Technical ability to safely operate all COLT transit vehicles, operate controls, pedals, levers and switches found on transit vehicles, read gauge and assess the safe operational condition of vehicles.
  • Transport passengers to predetermined fixed route stops and scheduled paratransit locations; assist passengers in getting on and off transit vehicles; ability to safely operate a wheelchair lift.
  • Complete daily tasks including inspection of vehicles to verify that the vehicle is functioning properly.
  • Make recommendations on vehicle maintenance as required; operate a two-way radio and use proper radio communications.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

  • Frequent minimal physical effort typically found in clerical work. Primarily sedentary, may occasionally lift and carry light objects. Walking and/or standing as needed and minimal.
  • Frequent exposure to heat and noise along with working outside in the elements.
  • Occasional exposure to hazards typically found in general office environments where there is rarely to no exposure to injury or accident.

Additional Working Demands / Conditions:

This position is considered essential personnel required to report for duty in response to community emergencies (e.g. natural disaster, fire, flood, blizzard, etc.).

This position requires a CDL.  Employees in this position are subject to random drug and/or alcohol testing.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.

With over 300 days of sunshine, and just 30 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park in the heart of northern Colorado, Loveland is an ideal community for anyone to call home.  Known as the Sweetheart City, this vibrant cultural hub is home to nearly 500 sculptures and public art installations, the world-famous Valentine Remail Program, and picturesque views of the Rocky Mountains.  The community is bustling with a thriving arts, brewery, foodie, and shopping scene.  Enjoy headliner concert and theatre productions, professional hockey events, endless community recreation and open space opportunities, art and sculpture shows, and several local festivals.  Loveland also boasts an award-winning golf course and an inclusive library and community center. Loveland, Colorado has EVERYTHING YOU LOVE!


In 2020, Loveland was the only Colorado City to win the Governor’s Award for Downtown Excellence, is the top residential recycling City in the state for 4 consecutive years and has been ranked as one of the top places to live, work and raise a family in the U.S. and as one of the Most Idyllic Picturesque towns in America.


Apply today to join more than 800 employees who work to meet the core values of: Accountability & Integrity, Transparency & Honoring the Public Trust, Collaboration, Innovation, Safety, Excellent Service with Courtesy and Kindness.  The City of Loveland is a diverse and welcoming community organization, and our employees enjoy a competitive benefits program, various opportunities for growth and development, and an exceptional work-life balance.

A vibrant community, surrounded by natural beauty, where you belong!

 

Benefit Eligible Benefits Package Includes:

  • Two (2) Medical plans, Dental, Vision (for self/ spouse/ children)
  • A Dedicated, exclusive Employee Health and Wellness Center
  • Discounted Chilson Center passes
  • Paid vacation, holidays, floating holidays, and medical leave
  • Flexible spending including Dependent Care
  • Life Insurance, AD&D, Short-term and Long-term disability, and voluntary Critical Illness Coverage
  • Retirement 401a, 457, Roth (pre-& post tax) and company match
  • A Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program
  • Voluntary 529 College Invest program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Personal and Professional Development opportunities
  • Employee Recognition Program
  • Exceptional work-life balance
  • Market based pay & regular performance reviews
  • Local Government employment is eligible for Public Loan Forgiveness Program

Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

City of Loveland job descriptions are designed to describe the general nature and level of work necessary to perform well in the job; they are not intended to provide an exhaustive list of responsibilities, skills, and qualifications. City of Loveland job descriptions may be updated periodically, and additional activities, duties or responsibilities may be assigned by management as deemed appropriate.


The City of Loveland provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, age, or any other status protected under federal, state, and/or local law.

The City of Loveland participates in E-Verify. In accordance with E-Verify requirements, upon your date of hire the City of Loveland will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. E-Verify Notice of Participation. Learn more about your right to work. Visit E-Verify.gov for more information.

Employment offers will be conditional on the successful completion of a driving record and background check including criminal sex offender search.  Selection process will comply with DOT regulations including post-offer drug screening and FMCSA Clearinghouse full query if applicable.


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