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Transit Operator Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$23.10 - $30.96/hr

... CDL License, $24.2469/hour (Step 2) with CDL License or after completion of training. Salary ... The Transit Operator position is directly involved in providing transit services to the citizens of ...

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Transit Operator Bus Driver information

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$19

$28

How much do transit operator bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit operator bus driver in the United States is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Transit Operator Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Transit Operator Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and thorough knowledge of traffic laws and transit routes. Familiarity with fare collection systems, GPS navigation, and safety protocols is typically required. Exceptional customer service, patience, and situational awareness are vital soft skills for interacting with passengers and handling unexpected situations. These competencies ensure safe, reliable transportation and positive rider experiences, which are crucial for public transit operations.

What are some common challenges Transit Operator Bus Drivers face during their daily routes, and how can they best prepare for them?

Transit Operator Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, handling difficult or disruptive passengers, and navigating unpredictable traffic or weather conditions. Staying calm under pressure, maintaining clear communication with dispatch, and adhering to safety protocols are key strategies for overcoming these obstacles. Training programs and ongoing support from supervisors help drivers develop the skills needed to manage these situations effectively, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for both themselves and their passengers.

What are Transit Operator Bus Drivers?

Transit Operator Bus Drivers are professionals responsible for driving buses along designated routes, picking up and dropping off passengers, and ensuring their safety throughout the journey. They follow schedules, obey traffic laws, and often assist passengers with directions or special needs. In addition to operating the vehicle, they may handle fare collection and provide customer service. Transit operators play a crucial role in public transportation systems, helping people commute safely and efficiently. Their job requires good driving skills, patience, and a strong sense of responsibility.

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

AspectTransit Operator Bus DriverBus Transit Supervisor
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)CDL + supervisory experience
Work EnvironmentDriving buses, passenger interactionOverseeing drivers, managing operations
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, private bus companiesTransit agencies, transportation departments

The main difference is that Transit Operator Bus Drivers focus on operating buses and serving passengers, while Bus Transit Supervisors oversee operations, manage staff, and ensure service quality. Both roles require a CDL, but supervisors need additional experience and leadership skills.

More about Transit Operator Bus Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Transit Operator Bus Driver jobs? Cities with the most Transit Operator Bus Driver job openings:
What states have the most Transit Operator Bus Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Transit Operator Bus Driver jobs include:
Infographic showing various Transit Operator Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 9% Full Time, 85% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,198 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

$22.70/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

The Public Transit Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently transporting passengers along designated routes, ensuring timely arrivals and departures. You'll perform routine vehicle inspections, adhere to all traffic laws and safety regulations, and provide excellent customer service by assisting passengers as needed. Additionally, you'll maintain accurate records of daily activities, including ridership counts and vehicle maintenance reports, and respond to any on-the-road issues or emergencies in accordance with company procedures. You'll work to promote accessibility and ensure that all individuals, including those with disabilities, are provided with a safe and reliable transit experience.

We are looking for part-time bus drivers. Tell us how many hours per week you're looking for and what schedule fits your life. We're happy to work with your availability whenever possible. You will primarily drive in the Wabasha County area but may occasionally be assigned to another city/community.

Start pay is $22.70/hour if you already have a Class C CDL and Passenger Endorsement (PE); otherwise, starting pay will be $21.70/hour with a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) while you are in training to receive your CDL. If you do not have a CDL and Passenger Endorsement, a CLP is required before your start date.

Job offers are contingent on a reference check; a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review; a criminal background study with fingerprinting through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS); a Medical Examiners Certificate ("Medical Card"); a Fitness-for-Duty Exam paid for by the agency at the clinic of the agency's choosing; and a pre-employment Department of Transportation (DOT) drug test. Employees in this position are subject to random and reasonable suspicion DOT drug and alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Required Qualifications:

  • Ability to pass a required background study, as defined by the position
  • Current, valid driver's license for at least three (3) years in good standing as defined by agency insurance company (including, but not limited to, no more than 1 moving violation in the previous 12-months).
  • Current, valid personal automobile insurance
  • Ability to successfully pass required background study (including, but not limited to, no felony convictions).
  • Willingness/ability to adhere to all CFR Part 40 regulations as they pertain to public transit operators, including but not limited to submission to and successfully passing of drug and alcohol testing throughout employment.
  • Ability to safely operate large transit vehicles, associated equipment, mobility lift, and security devices safely and efficiently.
  • Abilityto read, write and speak English to communicate effectively with passengers, dispatchers and in emergency situations.
  • Demonstrated adherence to all state and highway safety rules and regulations.
  • Ability to use tablets and other basic transit software.
  • Ability to pass Driver Training on topics including, but not limited to:
    • Passenger Assistance
    • Maltreatment Awareness
    • Defensive Driving
    • First Aid/CPR
    • Child Passenger Safety

NOTE: If position is offered to and accepted by applicant, the Agency will provide resources to assist applicant in obtaining a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) and a Medical Examiners Certificate ("Medical Card") prior to their first day of employment. Employment will not begin until both are obtained.

Paid training is provided to assist new hires in obtaining CDL and Passenger Endorsement; must obtain CDL and Passenger Endorsement within 90 days of start date.

Functional Requirements:

  • Ability to sit for long periods of time while driving and use hands to finger, handle, or grasp objects and controls, and reach with hands and arms
  • Ability to safely operate large transit vehicles and equipment safely in all types of weather and environmental conditions.
  • Ability to adhere to ADA compliance and reasonable accommodation requirements and physically assist passengers personally, or with mobility devices or property as needed.
  • Ability to pass a Fitness for Duty Exam paid for by the agency at the clinic of the agency's choosing.
  • Potentially frequent lifting of up to 75lbs.
  • Occasional bending/squatting/reaching.
About Three Rivers Community Action

Join Three Rivers Community Action, a dynamic nonprofit organization established in 1966 by dedicated local citizens. Committed to enhancing lives across our service area, Three Rivers collaborates with community partners to provide warmth, transportation, food, housing, advocacy and education to individuals and families.

At Three Rivers, we seek collaborative solutions, lead with integrity, embrace diversity, inspire mutual trust, listen to community needs, respect the people we work with, and promote equity, empowerment and self-sufficiency.

We advocate ardently for our program participants at local, state, and federal levels, leveraging our extensive network of human service agencies to provide comprehensive support. Through these partnerships, we optimize resources to better serve families and communities, catalyzing meaningful change and fostering inclusivity.

We realize dreams of homeownership for people such as single parents, individuals with disabilities, and families. We enable seniors to age in place with vital services like home-delivered meals, transportation, and energy assistance. Through initiatives like Head Start, we ensure children are equipped for school success while supporting their families holistically. At every stage of life, Three Rivers strives to empower and uplift those we serve. Join us in making a difference, one life at a time.

Watch this 2-minute video that provides a snapshot of our programs, values, and a participant story that reflects the heart of what we do.

About the Benefits

Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package tailored to support your well-being and enrich your life:

  • Competitive wages with opportunities for advancement
  • Extensive benefits for regular full-time staff (30+ hours per week), including affordable health insurance with access to employer-sponsored NICE Healthcare and an HRA, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), voluntary dental, vision, voluntary life/AD&D, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance, ensuring peace of mind and security for you and your loved ones.
  • Immediate eligibility for investment in our 403(b), with a generous automatic match (after 1 year of employment), aiding in building a stable financial future
  • Generous paid time off, guaranteeing you sufficient time for relaxation, rejuvenation, and personal interests for regular staff working 30+ hours per week
  • Access to our robust Employee Assistance Program, providing assistance and resources for both personal and professional challenges
  • Training and professional development opportunities aimed at enhancing your skills and fostering career growth
  • A supportive work environment that values lived experience, respects personal representation, teamwork, and recognizes individual contributions.

Experience these outstanding benefits, among others, as we actively support your development, well-being, and success.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that values lived experience. We strongly encourage individuals from under-represented populations and those with relevant lived experiences to apply. We value diverse perspectives and backgrounds. Your unique experiences and perspectives are an asset to our team, and we welcome your application.

Three Rivers is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. If you require assistance or accommodation during the application process due to a disability, please contact Human Resources at jobs@threeriverscap.org or 507-316-0610.

Online application preferred:www.threeriverscap.org/careers. However, a paper application form may be requested by calling 507-316-0610.

Three Rivers is an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer