Bus Operator

Full Time Bus Operator
Non-Exempt
Rate: $24.68/hour
CDL or CDL Permit Required
ABOUT US
The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) is an expanding mid-sized transit agency serving Virginia's capital and the greater Richmond region. GRTC is uniquely integrated with the community and presents a range of opportunities - from launching innovative new service designs and building large capital projects to expanding throughout the region and continuing to grow ridership. Joining GRTC also means moving to a vibrant capital city with a nationally renowned arts and culture scene, delicious food, and enormous potential. Located just ten minutes from downtown, GRTC's headquarters power 30,000 transit trips a day, with more routes & regional connections in development - as well as a second bus rapid transit line that will complement the Pulse, our ITDP Bronze Medal-winning flagship system that serves as the spine of our network.
SUMMARY
Bus operators are responsible for operating transit service vehicles to include 29- to 60-foot buses used in public transportation in the greater Richmond region including but not limited to the City of Richmond, Henrico County, Chesterfield County. Assumes responsibility for the safety of our customers and equipment and performs routine vehicle inspections to ensure proper operations. Communicates appropriate information to customers, supervisors, and others designated to receive such information. Answers inquiries from customers and others. Follow agency transportation guidelines, operating rules, and procedures. Responsible for overseeing the safety of passengers, resolving problems, providing good customer relations, and maintaining public trust. Arrives on time and works independently with minimal supervision.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

• Operates a transit vehicle to pick up, transport, and discharge passengers while adhering to route schedules.
• Maintains a pleasant and courteous demeanor.
• Performs a pre-trip inspection of transit vehicles for mechanical problems prior to beginning scheduled run. This includes conducting an external/internal visual inspection of the vehicle and pre-testing all necessary equipment, operating devices, and transit bus controls for use while in service. Also conducts an internal visual inspection at the end of shift to collect and turn in lost items.
• Complete familiarization with system and safety features. This includes local geography and roadways of an assigned route and of the entire service area; traffic rules, regulations, and laws; transfer points; and fare structures (if applicable).
• Provides information on bus services to passengers which include bus schedules, routes, and fare information (if applicable).
• Receives and transmits two-way radio messages involving accidents, incidents, emergencies, unauthorized/illegal activities utilizing judgment and discretion to ensure customer and individual safety. Also checks for Clever on-board system for messages from dispatchers regarding detours and other information.
• Maintains radio contact with dispatchers to report vehicle breakdown, accidents, interruptions in service, or other vital information to maintain efficient transit operations.
• Completes forms as required, may prepare detailed written reports concerning accidents, incidents, breakdowns, and mechanical defects as required.
• Adheres to safety rules, regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure the well-being of GRTC customers and employees.
• Collects proper fares from boarding passengers (if applicable).
• Provides a high level of service while operating buses under a variety of conditions.
• Regulates heating, lighting, and ventilating systems for passenger comfort.
• Always maintains a professional appearance/ observes operator dress code.
• Must be able to communicate effectively by using both written and verbal skills.
• Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, & SKILLS

• High school education and or equivalent GED.
• A current Virginia Driver's License with a positive point balance or better.
• Ability to successfully complete operator training program including training of bus routes, schedules and vehicle emergency procedures within the prescribed time set forth by the Department of Transportation.
• Ability to comprehend and operate a bus on all streets in the Richmond area.
• Ability to operate vehicle under safest possible conditions.
• Ability to use prudent judgment and common sense in making quick, safe decisions with minimal supervision and adapt to constantly changing operating conditions.
• Ability to effectively communicate, both oral and written, while interacting with customers and GRTC staff in a courteous, professional manner. This includes providing good customer service by attending to the needs of a diverse customer base in a sensitive manner.
• Ability to work and maintain professional composure while under stress and pressure.
• Ability to listen, understand, and carry out the information, ideas, and direction presented verbally or electronically by dispatchers and street supervisors.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Sit for long periods, 20/20 vision or corrected, infrequent lifting and twisting.
• Hot, cold, all changes in weather and conditions.