We are currently recruiting for our Transit Operator class that will begin March 22, 2027. Hourly pay rates listed are for 2027. To help you plan ahead the following is a timeline of our process:
- In December, you will receive an invitation to an Information Sessions that will be held the week of January 11-15, 2027. You must attend one of the Information Sessions if you want to move forward in our hiring process.
- There is also in house testing that will be held January 15.
- Interviews will be the first week of February 2027.
Apply before December 31 to be considered for our March 22, 2027 class. This position is responsible for the safe, reliable, efficient and friendly operation of passenger buses for the public transportation system. Operators provide paratransit demand-responsive service and fixed route passenger bus service with assigned schedules.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Either Service
- Readies and inspects vehicles, including safety items, cleanliness and general appearance, at launch and throughout the day in order to insure safe and efficient operation of equipment. Reports any equipment defects as prescribed by WTA policy and procedures.
- 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.
- Responsible for proper securement of passengers and mobility devices, and safe evacuation of passengers in any emergency situation.
- Assures compliance with WTA's fare policy and collects ridership information.
- Promotes good passenger relations through courteous treatment of passengers and providing information regarding system operations.
- Completes and submits timecards, incident reports, and other information requested by the WTA.
- Returns and secures vehicle at WTA yard in accordance with established procedures.
- Must be willing to work day, evening, split shifts, and weekends.
- Must maintain punctual and regular attendance to provide dependable service to the public.
QUALIFICATIONS:
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 use judgment to assess situations, take appropriate actions by evaluating individual circumstances and prioritize conflicting needs.
- 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.
- Ability to read and comprehend maps, schedules and route information.
- 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.
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Ability to work effectively with co-workers at all levels of the organization, people affiliated with other organizations, and with the general public.
- Ability to utilize computer equipment to input work time, farebox information, receive and interpret route and schedule information, and other basic computer functions.
- Ability to successfully complete WTA's Operator Training Program.
- Ability to understand and apply WTA and Operations policies and procedures.
License or Certificate:
- Applicants must have a high school degree or equivalent.
- 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 comprehensive 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.
SELECTION PROCESS:
- Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to take a video based test. Evaluation of experience, qualifications, and video test scores will determine which candidates will be invited for an interview.
An Equal Opportunity Employer Women and Minorities Encouraged to Apply Drug and Alcohol Free Workplace including marijuana COMPENSATION: 2027 Rates
- $31.98 / hour, during full-time 10-11 week training period
- Annual step increases
To view the compensation and benefits document: Compensation and Benefits Document