Bus Operator
Bus Operator
Job ID: 2025 - 7382
Category: Bus Operator
Type: Regular Full-Time
Pay Range: $15.00/hr in training, then $18.00/hr. Increasing to $30.46/hr within 4 years
PSTA is a Drug Free/Smoke Free Workplace.
PSTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Overview
Start Date: August 11th, 2025
Bus Operators are a visible and crucial part of PSTA’s mission to provide safe, affordable transportation throughout Pinellas County. Our operators drive PSTA buses and trolleys to transport passengers in a safe, timely and courteous manner, while adhering to Authority policies and procedures.
Responsibilities
- Drive the latest models of well-maintained transit buses and trolleys.
- Create wonderful experiences for commuters, day travelers, and tourists.
- Welcome and interact with guests to collect fares as they board.
- Provide friendly and courteous service while answering riders’ questions.
- Adhere to route schedules while operating in mixed traffic conditions.
- Focus on the safety of our riders as they travel throughout Pinellas County.
- Conduct visual vehicle inspections daily and ensure the safety of our riders.
- Communicate with dispatch, road supervision and emergency vehicles via radio equipment and the IVN and Transit Control Head TCH.
- Operate a disabled lift/ramp to assist guests using wheelchairs to gain access to the bus.
- Announce bus stops in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- Resolve passenger disputes in a courteous manner and prepare related written reports and documents.
Qualifications
Education: High School diploma or G.E.D preferred.
License: Florida Driver License required by start date, and you must possess one of the following:
1. Class "B" Commercial Driver’s License with passenger endorsement and air brakes, or;
2. Class "B" CDL permit with passenger and air brake endorsements (available at DMV offices by completion of a written test)
Experience: Four (4) years driving experience. Clean driving record: no more than 3 traffic violations in the last 5 years, or 3 years without any traffic violations. Must successfully pass all tests and written examinations given. Must successfully pass a DOT Physical and drug test. Will have Motor Vehicle records check.
KNOWLEDGE SKILLS & ABILITIES
Knowledge of: Florida Traffic Laws; Pinellas County streets and highways (preferable;) defensive driving skills.
Skilled in: Safe driving and excellent interpersonal relations.
Abilities: Report to work on time in order to adhere to assigned routes and time schedules; comply with attendance and tardiness work rules; communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing; interact courteously and effectively with the public; develop and maintain good working relationships with fellow employees; simple arithmetic; reading, writing legibly, speaking effectively, understand verbal/written instructions.