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Transit Bus Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Bus Operator

Forestville, MD · On-site

$21 - $27.25/hr

To ensure optimization of all routes, the Bus Driver may make only designated stops in the order ... Requires prolong sitting while driving/operating transit buses. Includes reaching above head to ...

Collects/records bus fares, and transfers in accordance with transit procedures. * Requires prolong sitting while driving/operating transit buses. Includes reaching above head to adjust mirrors and ...

Under the direction of the Operations Manager and Operations Supervisors, Transit Management of Alexandria's (DASH) Bus Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient transportation ...

Bus Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.53/hr

... Transit Authority. · Operator personnel shall be able to successfully clear a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI). · Operator shall provide appropriately qualified vehicle operators that ...

Bus Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.53/hr

... Transit Authority. · Operator personnel shall be able to successfully clear a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI). · Operator shall provide appropriately qualified vehicle operators that ...

Bus Driver

Landover, MD · On-site

$18 - $29.49/hr

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) invites applications for entry into the MetroBus Operator Training Program as Student Bus Operators. Applications are welcomed from both ...

... transit bus driver, bus driver, coach bus driver, bus operator, shuttle driver, bus chauffeur) you might also consider driving with Uber to earn extra money. We also welcome drivers who have worked ...

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Transit Bus Operator information

See Washington salary details

$16

$22

$30

How much do transit bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit bus operator in Washington is $22.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $25.87 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 WA? For Transit Bus Operator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Bus Operator

Bus Operator

RATP Dev USA

Forestville, MD • On-site

$21 - $27.25/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


RATP Dev USA rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 76 rated public transport


Job description

  • Acts as front-line point of contact to ensure delivery of quality customer service.
  • Safely operates several types of buses through light to heavy city and freeway traffic safely and prudently.
  • Passengers safely and courteously according to specified routes. To ensure optimization of all routes, the Bus Driver may make only designated stops in the order prescribed, unless otherwise communicated by the Dispatch Office.
  • Complies with all federal, state, and local laws about the operation of buses, traffic, and safety.
  • Ensures the highest quality of bus service is delivered to our customers.
  • Assists customers in a safe, friendly, courteous, and helpful manner. This includes helping customers with disabilities, on and off the wheelchair lift. As requested by the customer, the Bus Driver will assist with safety restraints.
  • Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
  • Complies with all company safety rules and operates assigned vehicles to meet customer standards.
  • Must be able to operate all equipment safely, efficiently, and adequately, including farebox, lift, radio, emergency equipment, hatches, and rear engine compartment door.
  • Performs pre-trip inspection and completes DVIR in accordance with FMCSR to ensure bus and equipment are in safe, proper working condition.
  • Coordinates detour, accident, and incident information to radio dispatch, and responds to instructions given.
  • Makes effective independent decisions and manages conflicts based on safety, experience, training, and policies.
  • Follows procedures for the collection, processing, and documentation of fares and counting passengers as required.
  • Reports and properly follow up on all accidents or unusual incidents in, on, or near RATP Dev vehicles
  • Operates two-way bus radio system.
  • Collects/records bus fares, and transfers in accordance with transit procedures.
  • Requires prolong sitting while driving/operating transit buses. Includes reaching above head to adjust mirrors and destination signs.
  • Other duties as assigned as necessary