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Transit Bus Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Transit Mechanic

Gypsum, CO · On-site

$32 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What you'll do: Perform PM services, inspect operating/air systems, assist with road service ... Technical degree or ASE Certifications (Transit Bus, Medium/Heavy Truck, or Automotive). See full ...

Transit Mechanic

Gypsum, CO

$32 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What you'll do: Perform PM services, inspect operating/air systems, assist with road service ... Technical degree or ASE Certifications (Transit Bus, Medium/Heavy Truck, or Automotive). See full ...

Showing results 21-40

Transit Bus Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$21

$28

How much do transit bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Transit Bus Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,322 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Substitute Bus Operator - Part Time

GovernmentJobs.com

Loveland, CO • On-site

$24 - $30.74/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Bus Operator With COLT

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 substitute position with varying hours.

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.