PARATRANSIT BUS OPERATOR TRAINEE

Paratransit Bus Operator 
Department: Transportation 
Union: Teamsters

SMART is actively looking for customer-focused drivers that LOVE to work with the public! We are looking to fill immediate openings. We have openings throughout our service area in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties.  

$20.22/hour is paid during training; $21.92/hour after successful completion of training (7 weeks). 

General Summary

Under general direction, the Paratransit Bus Operator (CBO) operates motor coaches to transport passengers in a safe, efficient and courteous manner. The CBO is responsible for collecting fares and completing necessary inspections and reports. 

Duties and Responsibilities

• Operates motor coaches subject to departmental rules, regulations, schedules, and local and state traffic regulations, keeping radio dispatcher aware of status and location. 
• Maintains professional image and performs duties in courteous, friendly manner emphasizing positive customer relations. 
• Inspects and tests vehicle equipment prior to each run to ensure vehicle safety. 
• Reports equipment and maintenance problems or concerns to appropriate management personnel. 
• Responsible for the safe loading, transport and unloading of passengers. 
• Judges best way to route vehicle from place-to-place in demand-responsive service. 
• Provides schedule, route, fare, directional and general information to customers. 
• Responsible for collecting proper fares, inspecting passes, receiving and issuing transfers. 
• Assists passengers, particularly the elder and handicapped persons, in boarding or exiting vehicle as necessary, including operation of wheelchair lift and wheelchair restraints. 
• Posts appropriate route and destination signs in vehicle. 
• Removes ice, snow and slush from platforms. 
• Maintains proper lighting, heating and ventilation on vehicle. 
• Responsible for inspecting bulletin board daily for directives, policy and procedure announcements. 
• Maintains trip sheets and other forms as required. 
• Submits written reports on accidents and may be required to serve as witness regarding same. 
• Maintains reasonable order aboard the coach. 
• Performs related work as required. 

Minimum Requirements

• Ability to work various shifts, weekends, holidays, split days off, especially during the first 2 years of employment. 
• A real desire to drive and serve the public. 
• Ability to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License. 
• Less than four points on driving record in last five years. 
• Good driving record. No suspensions, revocations or restrictions within past 36 months (3 years). 
• High school diploma or GED from an accredited school. 
• A minimum of 5 years licensed driving experience. 
• Ability to read, write, and comprehend written directives and service information. 
• Ability to perform arithmetical calculations and maintain reports. 
• Ability to work in a time-structured environment under minimal direct supervision. 
• Strong interpersonal skills and desire to work with the public. 
• Ability to exercise sound and quick judgment in solving problems. 
• Ability to read a street map and find unknown locations quickly. 
• Knowledge of the service area of the assigned terminal: Major streets and landmarks, street numbering systems, etc. 
• Ability to successfully complete employment history verification and criminal background check, medical examination including drug screening, and employment interview. 

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