Job Openings Posted Here
TRANSIT OPERATOR
Open Until FIlled
JOB SUMMARY: This position is responsible for the safe, reliable and efficient operation of passenger buses for the public transportation system. Operator will provide demand-responsive service and also operate passenger buses on regular routes with assigned schedules, collecting fares.
COMPENSATION: $13.84/hour, during full-time 7-week training period; then $15.37 or $19.12 per hour, depending upon assignment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Either Service:
1. Readies and inspects vehicles on a daily basis in order to insure safe and efficient operation of equipment.
2. Operates two-way radio for professional routine communication with dispatch center and other vehicles as well as to report accidents, emergencies, or other unusual situations related to equipment and/or passengers.
3. Completes and submits timecards, incident reports, and other information requested by the WTA.
4. Inspects all safety items, cleanliness and general appearance of the vehicle at least once an hour. Reports any equipment defects as prescribed by WTA policy and procedures.
Paratransit Service
1. Operates a paratransit vehicle providing demand-responsive service to persons with disabilities and the general public within assigned routes and schedules.
2. Assists passengers boarding and disembarking from vehicles. Also responsible for proper securement of passengers and mobility devices.
3. Maintains accurate logs of daily vehicle activity and various reports and submits to office as scheduled.
Fixed-Route Service
1. Operates a passenger coach on prescribed routes and time schedules in accordance with established safety and operational policies and procedures while picking up and delivering passengers at regular stops.
2. Collects fares and promotes good passenger relations through courteous treatment of passengers and providing information regarding system operations, such as route and schedule information.
3. Always interfaces with other operators when relieving or being relieved on shift.
4. Maintains clean appearance of driver's area.
5. Maintains continual attendance at coach, except for scheduled breaks, to ensure the security and safety of both the coach and passengers, the maintenance of radio contact with dispatch and other drivers, and to provide system information to inquiring passengers in the terminal.
6. Returns and secures coach at WTA garage in accordance with established procedures.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Ability to safely operate a transit vehicle under all conditions of weather, roadways, and traffic while successfully dealing with passengers, route and schedule requirements.
Ability to perform multi-task functions in what can sometime be a high-stress environment.
Ability to gain operational knowledge of the system and every coach assigned.
Knowledge of traffic laws and safety rules applicable to the transportation of passengers.
Ability and willingness to maintain a courteous, professional approach when handling the public and problems that arise.
Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Work effectively with employees at all levels of the organization, outside agencies, and with the general public.
Must be willing to work day or evening shifts.
Must maintain punctual and regular attendance to provide dependable service to the public.
Ability to successfully complete WTA's Operator Training Program
LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE
Applicants must be at least 21 years of age at time of application with at least five years of driving experience.
Valid Washington State driver's license at time of hire and ability to obtain a valid Commercial Drivers License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements within six weeks of hire and maintain licensing during length of employment.
Applicants must have an acceptable driving record (in accordance with WTA personnel policy 3.03 "Employment Requirements") and must submit a five year driving abstract.
Must pass a Washington State Patrol background check (in accordance with RCW 43.43.830 through 43.43.840, Child/Adult Abuse Information Act.)
Obtain and maintain a valid and current CPR card within 3 months of hire.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Physical Ability to perform essential job functions including, but not limited to, sitting for extended periods of time, standing, walking, stooping/bending, pushing/pulling (approximately 20 lbs.), lifting (approximately 30 lbs.), and climbing (stairs).
Has distant vision acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in each eye without corrective lenses or visual acuity separate corrected to 20/40(Snellen) in both eyes with or without corrective lenses, field of vision of at least 70 degrees in the horizontal meridian in each eye, and the ability to recognize the colors of traffic signals and devices showing standard red, green, and amber.
Hearing unimpaired or correctable to minimum requirements of Section 391.41 CDL Physical Standards.
Full and complete use of all limbs to operate coach controls.
No history of cardiovascular impairment or related disease.
Meets all other minimum requirements of Section 391.41 CDL Physical Standards.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a medical evaluation, including a drug screen.
SELECTION PROCESS
Application materials will be reviewed and evaluated based on each applicant's experience and qualifications . Final candidates must participate in a panel interview and further assessment.
Submit completed application and supplemental materials to: Whatcom Transportation Authority, 4111 Bakerview Spur Road, Bellingham, WA 98226.
Download required documents for applying for this position:
WTA Application Form
Minimum Qualifications for this Position
Application Questions for this Position
Equal Opportunity Employment Form
TO APPLY
Application materials may be obtained above, or by contacting the WTA reception desk in-person or calling (360) 676-6843 (TTY 676-6844) between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday or by e-mail (text only) at jobs@ridewta.com.
The WTA is an equal-opportunity employer.