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Transit Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coach Operator

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$28.02/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Riverside Transit Agency is recruiting to fill current openings for our Full Time Coach Operator position. Our Coach Operators operate the Agency's 40' transit bus fleet and provide ...

Coach Operator

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$28.02/hr

Operate Agency transit and support vehicles in both revenue and non-revenue service; * Maintain an established schedule along a designated route; * Be available to operate Agency buses on pre ...

TRANSIT SUPERVISOR

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$7.2K - $8.7K/mo

The Position Torrance Transit is currently recruiting for Transit Supervisors to lead and coach a team of bus operators and dispatchers working in a fast- paced environment with shifting priorities.

Bus Operator

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$25.95/hr

Thank you for your interest in working for Long Beach Transit. We are actively building a talent pool of qualified operator candidates to support our workforce needs. A pplicants who are selected ...

Bus Operator

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$25.95/hr

We are actively building a talent pool of qualified operator candidates to support our workforce ... Long Beach Transit (LBT) is dedicated to connecting communities and moving people...making everyday ...

We are actively building a talent pool of qualified operator candidates to support our workforce ... Long Beach Transit (LBT) is dedicated to connecting communities and moving people...making everyday ...

Transit Intern

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$23.30 - $28.32/hr

Gain experience as a Transit Intern at Sonoma Public Infrastructure (SPI)! This paid internship ... projects; operating and maintaining four veteran's buildings and four water systems within the ...

Transit Intern

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$23.30 - $28.32/hr

Gain experience as a Transit Intern at Sonoma Public Infrastructure (SPI). This paid internship ... projects; operating and maintaining four veteran's buildings and four water systems within the ...

Our transit practice is engaged in the planning, design, and implementation of transit services and ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Our transit practice is engaged in the planning, design, and implementation of transit services and ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Our transit practice is engaged in the planning, design, and implementation of transit services and ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Practice Builder - Transit

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $260K/yr

Our transit practice is engaged in the planning, design, and implementation of transit services and ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

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Transit Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do transit operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit operator in California is $18.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who is a transit operator?

A transit operator is a professional responsible for driving buses, trains, or other public transportation vehicles. They ensure passenger safety, follow schedules, and may need a commercial driver's license or specialized training to operate the vehicles. Their work environment typically involves working on routes within a city or region, often requiring good communication and safety skills.

What is the difference between Transit Operator vs Bus Driver?

AspectTransit OperatorBus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsementCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit vehicles, urban and suburban routesPublic transit buses, city streets
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, transportation servicesPublic transit agencies, private transportation companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Transit Operators and Bus Drivers require similar credentials, such as a CDL with passenger endorsement, and work in public transit environments. While Transit Operators may cover a broader range of transit vehicles and routes, Bus Drivers specifically operate buses within urban settings. The roles are often used interchangeably in searches, but Transit Operator can include other vehicle types like trolleybuses or shuttles.

What is the highest paid transportation job?

The highest paid transportation jobs are often executive or management roles such as transportation directors or logistics managers, with salaries reaching six figures. Certain specialized roles like airline pilots or freight rail conductors also tend to have higher pay, especially with experience and certifications. These positions typically require advanced skills, certifications, and experience in the transportation industry.

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

To thrive as a Transit Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), safe driving skills, and a solid understanding of traffic laws and transit routes. Familiarity with fare collection systems, vehicle inspection procedures, and communication devices is typically required. Strong customer service, problem-solving abilities, and patience help operators manage passenger interactions and unexpected situations. These skills ensure reliable, safe, and courteous transportation services for the community.

What are transit operators?

Transit operators are professionals responsible for driving and operating public transportation vehicles such as buses, streetcars, or trains. Their main duties include safely transporting passengers along predetermined routes, adhering to schedules, and providing excellent customer service. They are also responsible for collecting fares, assisting passengers with disabilities, and ensuring the safety of everyone on board. Transit operators play a crucial role in keeping cities connected and helping people commute efficiently.

What are some common challenges Transit Operators face during their shifts and how can they effectively manage them?

Transit Operators often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, handling unexpected traffic or route changes, and ensuring passenger safety and satisfaction. They may also deal with difficult situations like fare disputes, unruly passengers, and inclement weather. Effective communication skills, patience, and a thorough understanding of transit protocols help operators navigate these challenges. Operators typically receive ongoing training and support from supervisors and colleagues, which fosters a collaborative work environment and helps address issues as they arise.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Most jobs that pay $2,000 a day are high-level positions such as specialized medical professionals, senior corporate executives, or certain skilled trades like commercial pilots or construction managers. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, or specialized skills, and often involve long hours or high responsibility levels.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A transit operator typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized experience or overtime pay; most earn lower wages. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree include certain sales, real estate, or skilled trades positions, but these often require specific skills, certifications, or licensing. Generally, achieving $10,000 monthly income without a degree involves roles with commission, bonuses, or extensive experience.
What are popular job titles related to Transit Operator jobs in California? For Transit Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Transit Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Transit Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Transit Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Transit Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Transit Operator jobs in CA? For Transit Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Coach Operator

Coach Operator

RIVERSIDE TRANSIT AGENCY

Riverside, CA โ€ข On-site

$28.02/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY The Riverside Transit Agency is recruiting to fill current openings for our Full Time Coach Operator position. Our Coach Operators operate the Agency's 40' transit bus fleet and provide safe, dependable and courteous public transportation service for the citizens of the RTA Service area. Priority will be given to applicants who currently hold a valid Class A/B License with passenger and airbrake endorsements.

Please be advised that this may involve assignment at either our Riverside or Hemet locations. Applicants must be available to work 7 days per week, including holidays and all shifts. Potential start date could be as early as June 2026.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES Essential job duties include but not limited to: Operate Agency transit and support vehicles in both revenue and non-revenue service; Maintain an established schedule along a designated route; Be available to operate Agency buses on pre-assigned shifts; Be responsible for the safety of passengers; Collect proper fares according to Agency tariffs; Give transit information; Collect patronage and revenue data as assigned; Prepare report forms; Report equipment defects or failures; And other related tasks as assigned. The position will function under the general supervision of the Director of Operations and/or the Assistant Operations Manager(s) and under the direct supervision of the Operations Supervisor(s). QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES REQUIREMENTS: Stable work history Customer Service experience preferred Minimum age of 18 Excellent driving record Minimum 12 months of driving history.

Ability to obtain and maintain a Class B Permit/License with endorsements CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATION At the time of application: A current, valid, and non-restricted Class A/B Driver's License is preferred but not required. Additionally, a DMV Driver's Record Report printout (issued not more than 30 days prior to date of application) must be provided with the application. You must obtain a DRIVER'S RECORD REPORT from the DMV kiosk/online history printout process.

For information regarding non-domiciled commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) holders. Please select FMSCA presser, using the link below: FMCSA Presser Your established driving history must be clear of the following: 1) any suspensions within the past five (5) years; 2) may not have more than three (3) points within the past three (3) years; 3) no two (2) point violations within the past three (3) years. No accidents which the applicant contributed to cause within 3 years from your application date.

Have appeared in court as required. NOTE: In order to be prepared and successful in the recruitment process, interested applicants are urged to visit the California DMV website to obtain study guides and prepare for the Class B permit exams. Please click this link to go to the DMV Study Guide: DMV Study Guide Prior to appointment to the position: Candidates must provide proof of a Class B Permit with the passenger and airbrake endorsements; or a current Class A or B License with the proper endorsements.

Continued employment is contingent based on the following requirements: All Coach Operators are required to maintain a valid Class B Driver's License, with the proper endorsements and current medical certificate. PLEASE NOTE: The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) wants to inform commercial driver license (CDL) customers about new requirements and updated acceptable documents that becomes effective on May 10, 2017. All new commercial driver license applicants will be required to provide the DMV with proof of California residency as well as proof of U.S

citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or legal presence. The new requirements apply to original and renewal CDL applicants, as well as CDL cardholders who request a license upgrade. A few examples of acceptable legal presence documents include: A valid, unexpired U.S

passport or passport card Certified copy of a birth certificate with a State Office of Vital Statistics or equivalent A valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card A valid, unexpired employment authorization document (EAD) A valid, unexpired foreign passport with an approved I-94 form A few examples of California residency documents include: Rental or lease agreement Mortgage bill Home utility bills (including cellular phone) Medical documents Employment documents For the full list of documents accepted to verify legal presence and California residency visit -- https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/commercial-driver-licenses-cdl/ SELECTION PROCEDURES FLSA Status: Non-exempt SELECTION PROCEDURES: Applications and driving records will be evaluated and only qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the selection process which includes: Driving record review (pass/fail). Final ranking is determined by the oral interview examination (100% weight). Note to Internal Candidates: The internal record will be reviewed

You must successfully complete the 120-day probationary period and obtain the necessary Class B permit. FAILURE TO PROVIDE A CURRENT DRIVERS RECORD REPORT (issued not more than 30 days prior to date of application) will disqualify your application. FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION OR DIRECTIONS ON ATTACHING A DOCUMENT TO YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION CLICK HERE: Application Guide The selection procedures may change depending on the needs of the Agency; if such changes apply, qualified applicants will be notified prior to the administration of examinations.

The Riverside Transit Agency complies with State and Federal obligations to make reasonable accommodation for applicants and employees with disabilities. The Human Resources Department asks that it be advised of accommodation requests prior to the first test part. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an express or implied contract.

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the Riverside Transit Agency requires that all new employees provide documentation to establish both work authorization and identity. ***RTA IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER***