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Transit Bus Operator Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Transit Bus Operator information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do transit bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit bus operator in Atlanta, GA is $19.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $21.97 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
Transit Bus Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transit Bus Operator job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,534 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

BUS OPERATOR

Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority

Decatur, GA • On-site

$19.25 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description


MARTA is hosting a public hiring event on August 20, 2026, where we will be conducting interviews for some of our available positions including Bus operator. If you have already interviewed at one of our previous career fairs, please check your emails for any updates.
Information regarding upcoming career Fair:
MARTA Career Fair: (CDL/CDL Permit Holders ONLY)
Date: August 20, 2026
Time: 1PM - 4PM
Location: MARTA headquarters (2424 Piedmont Road NE Atlanta GA 30324)
Dress Code: Business Professional/ Casual (Strictly enforced)
Please see the link to register - https://forms.office.com/g/BbnKQEwtHq
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
High school diploma or equivalent. Must be 21 years of age. Must possess knowledge of, or the ability to learn to evaluate its general operation condition. Must possess knowledge of, or the ability to learn the motor vehicle code for the State of Georgia. Exceptional customer service skills and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse members of the public are essential. At least one year of direct customer service and/or prior commercial bus, taxi or limousine driving experience is preferred.
INTERVIEW SELECTION PROCESS: The selection process may include one or more components to demonstrate applicants' knowledge, skills, and abilities in job related areas. These may include exercises such as practical demonstrations, written communications, oral interviews and/or competency assessments.
SUMMARY: Operates various model buses to transport passengers over established bus routes and to special events.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:
1. Drives and operates a commercial passenger bus, transporting passengers to and from scheduled stops, announcing major stops, transfer points, other announcements as requested/required. Collects proper fares and validates passes and identification cards, utilizing electronic fare registering and collection equipment. Exercises reasonable care in the handling of funds and other valuables, to include proper reporting of lost articles. Courteously provide schedule, route, and fare information to passengers seeking assistance.
2. Assists disabled passengers in boarding, riding, and alighting in a safe manner. Operates wheelchair lifts or scooters and secure equipment of affected passengers in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
3. Maintains, supports, and promotes a safe work environment at all times. Conducts routine bus inspections of assigned vehicle before and after daily run (pre-trip and post trip inspections) in conformance with all applicable safety and operation procedures. Documents inspection findings. Promptly engages Bus Operations Control Center (BCC) MARTA Police in cases of passenger unruly conduct and/or any threat to passenger or safety of self.
4. Prepares and submits accident and incident reports in a timely manner utilizing proper forms and in accordance with established guidelines.
5. Uses Bus phone and logs into the Automated Vehicle Locator (AVL) to communicate with equipment failures, schedule delays, hazardous or dangerous conditions along bus route and passenger loading zones, to include such hazards as unusual traffic, road conditions, obstructions, construction, potential criminal activity, etc.
6.. Performs other assigned tasks as requested.
(These duties are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive, and do not include marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of the essential job functions.)
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
  • CDL Holders (Required): A current valid State of Georgia issued CDL license [Class A or B with a Passenger ("P") endorsement]
  • CDL Permit Holders (Required): A current valid State of Georgia issued Commercial Driver Learner's (CDL) Permit (Class A or B with a "P" endorsement) is required. Individuals hired with a valid State of Georgia issued Commercial Driver Learner's Permit, must obtain a valid State of Georgia issued Commercial Driver's License (Class A or B with a Passenger endorsement within the allotted three (3) weeks of the Bus Operator Candidate's Training Program.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • A maximum of one (1) moving violation with a maximum of three (3) points on Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) within a 24-month period.
  • No DUI violations within the last 5 years.
  • Dependable transportation to report to work.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
If you are a qualified individual with a disability, you have a right to request that MARTA make reasonable accommodations in order to help you accomplish your work, which must still be performed in all its essential functions.
MARTA is a Drug Free Workplace. Participation in MARTA's Drug & Alcohol Program is a condition of employment. Failure to adhere to MARTA's Drug & Alcohol Program will result in termination. Every MARTA employee is responsible for reading and observing the requirements of the Drug & Alcohol policy. This position has been identified asSAFETY SENSITIVE.
MARTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
Classification - Represented
Pay Rate: - $21.22

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