Bus Operator

DIVISION: Operations
LOCATION: 4305 East 21st Ave Tampa, FL 33605
PAY RATE: $20.03/hr as per the Union Contract

*****Next Class: February 19, 2024 - This class will be for those who already possess a CDL with Passenger Endorsement*****

POSITION PURPOSE:

This position provides safe and timely operation of the Authority's mass transit vehicles. Transit Operators observes all state and local traffic laws and all safety rules and adheres to time schedules.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Performs pre-strip inspections of Transit vehicles as required by the Federal Department of Transportation (FDOT).
• Operates various types of mass transit vehicles utilizing defensive driving techniques and according to guidelines established by the Authority.
• Answers passengers' questions relative to connecting routes, discharge zones, schedules and fares utilizing various modes of communication. Included but not limited to vehicular public announcement (PA) systems, face-to-face interchanges, destination signage, route schedule brochures, etc.
• Collects and accounts for fares.
• Picks up assigned route materials from the dispatcher (e.g. pocket schedules, courtesy cards, pre-departure slips, public schedules, and other related materials).
• Operates transit service on time, adhering to designated time points on pocket/public schedules, picking up and alighting passengers.
• Operates all special needs equipment as requested and/or required.
• Prepares factual and concise accident and incident reports to submit Dispatcher as required.
• Reports mechanical defects, road hazards, vehicle or equipment malfunctions, and other service related concerns per the Authority's policies and procedures.
• Conducts special surveys, passenger counts and distributes company information as needed.
• Operates all various types of wheelchair lifts and securement systems.
• Responsible for courteous and tactful interaction with the public, project a positive image of HART.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

• Performs other work-related duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience:

• High School graduate or G.E.D. certificate, preferred.
• Three years of driving experience (commercial and/or non-commercial) preferred.
• Must be minimum eighteen (18) years of age.

Machines, Tools and Equipment Used:

• Transit Vehicles, two-way radio and telephone, wheelchair lifts and securement systems.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Florida Driver's License; (CDL) Class "A or B" with "P" (Passenger) endorsement preferred.
• A clean driving record; no more than seven (7) points in the last three (3) years.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to effectively communicate with customers face-to-face or via PA systems.
• Ability to operate all Authority mass transit vehicles.
• Ability to operate all Authority routes.
• Ability to comprehend local geography.
• Ability to drive in daylight and darkness.
• Excellent verbal and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under stress and interruptions.
• Ability to interact positively with a variety of personalities internally and externally.
• Ability to maintain records and prepare reports.
• Ability to follow written instructions.
• Ability to perform calculations with accuracy.
• Ability to dress appropriately and maintain personal hygiene.
• Ability to conduct oneself so that they are not a threat to themselves or others.
• Ability to meet attendance and punctuality requirements.
• Ability to be a flexible, effective team player.
• Knowledge of defensive driving techniques.
• Knowledge of rules, regulations, procedures and policies of the Authority.
• Knowledge of geographical area of county and city.
• Knowledge of HART schedules and routes.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

• Constant periods of sitting and driving transit vehicles.
• Occasional periods of bending, kneeling and stretching.
• Occasional periods of exposure to extreme heat and cold.
• Ability to occasionally push and pull objects in excess of 100 lbs. when assisting patron in wheelchair.
• Constant exposure to noise and fumes.
• Subject to all weather conditions.
• Work is performed in a standard office environment. Incumbent may sometime be located in an outdoor, street, community, or shop environment.
• Ability to hear, see, speak, and perceive color, depth and texture.
• Subject to standing, walking, bending, reaching, stooping, and lifting of objects up to 25 pounds.
• May be exposed to potentially intimidating and/or unreceptive members of the public; may occasionally be exposed to extreme noise and physical harm or fumes and airborne particle