TRANSIT DRIVER

Are you looking for an exciting new career working in the community? Come join us at Pullman Transit as a Transit Driver today. This position will have you operating transit equipment full-time (with seasonal reductions in hours) and comes with excellent benefits. Don't have a CDL? That's okay! Pullman Transit will train you to become one of our drivers. Apply today and be a part of an amazing team!!

Drives buses and paratransit vans in a safe manner over assigned routes according to established time schedules while being courteous to the public and maintaining order in the vehicle.  Checks fluid levels and conducts pre-trip vehicle inspections. Equipment operation and route training are provided prior to operating vehicle alone.  Does not supervise employees.  More experienced employees may be assigned to familiarize a new employee with routes and evaluate their skills. Reports to the Dispatcher for schedule and other changes.  Once experience is gained through on-the-job training, work is performed independently according to established time schedules and regula­tions.

Checks fluids and tires on vehicle before starting; conducts inspections before, during and after operation to note damage or defects including body damage, tires, radiator, lights, instruments, brakes, radio, and other equipment; makes notes on defect sheet.

Operates a passenger bus on a designated route and/or a paratransit van on a designated schedule, safely picks up and discharges passengers, collects fares, verifies passes (ID for validity), coordinates transfers, counts riders through fare type on hand-held unit and/or on-board reader/clicker; operates wheelchair lifts and restraints for passenger safety and comfort; regulates heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilating systems for passenger comfort; receives passenger surveys.

Promotes positive passenger relations by greeting passengers in a pleasant and courteous manner; collects fares and issues transfers; gives information concerning routes, fares, schedules, and transfer points; secures and turns in articles found in vehicle; completes trip and other reports; distrib­utes and receives passenger surveys.

Receives input from passengers in a polite manner and attempts to provide appropriate information; refers information to supervisor; makes suggestions to supervisor on safety and route improvements; reports observed accidents, hazards, and other circumstances requiring attention to dispatcher.

May participate in the cleaning of buses, facilities, and assists in the office when available or has free time, uses power washer to clean buses and vans, sweeps vehicles, empties waste baskets, answer telephone, provides information to public on route and paratransit service (does not schedule Dial-A-Rides).

Operates two-way radio in a professional manner, makes ADA stop call-outs, performs hourly vehicle walk-through and walk-a-rounds while on route, and reports changing conditions of Dial-A-Ride patrons to office staff.

Interacts in a professional and respectful manner with city staff and the public.

Minimum Qualifications:

Two years experience with the safe operation of passenger cars, trucks, or other motorized vehicles in a variety of weather conditions and a willingness to serve the public; or any equivalent combination of experience and training. Ability to obtain a commercial driver's license, Class B, with air brake restriction removed.  Must be able to present an Abstract of Driving Record for evaluation.

Ability to:

• Demonstrate self-motivation, service to the public, and a willingness to do a good job.
• Operate a vehicle safely while observing passenger activities in the bus and at the bus stop;
• Successfully complete initial classroom and field training;
• Safely operate a large passenger bus and paratransit van independently on assigned route within established time schedules on crowded streets in all weather conditions;
• Deal with public in a pleasant and courteous manner and to remain calm in adverse weather conditions, crowded traffic conditions, and when dealing with irate or disorderly passengers;
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, department personnel, other city employees, and the public;
• Understand and carry out written and oral instruc­tions;
• Demonstrate excellent driving skills;
• Successfully complete a certified first aid class and to correctly apply training to passengers as required.
• Accurately maintain records of fare categories, transfers coordinated, equipment defects, and time schedules;
• Provide quality services in a cost-effective manner and to recommend improved methods of performing the work;
• Demonstrate sensitivity to a diverse group of individuals including the elderly and disabled;
• Work varying hours including early morning, late evening, and on weekends;
• Attend work on a regular and dependable basis;
• Make ADA call outs;
• Pass a drug screen upon offer of employment;
• Pass a Washington State Patrol background check;
• Pass a transit orientation people skill test;
• Pass Department of Licensing physical exam (as required);
• Physically perform the essential functions of the job;
• Possession of a valid driver's license and an Abstract of Driving Record for evaluation of a safe driving record.

Employees in this position are required to wear a uniform while driving and must report to work with a neat and clean appearance. Must be at least 21 years of age. While performing the duties of the job, the employee is required to sit for extended periods of time.  The employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, toxic or caustic chemicals.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

This is a safety-sensitive position and is subject to random drug and alcohol testing as a condition of employment.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet while in the office, or moderately loud when in the field.    

Employees in this position may use paratransit van, bus, or car; fuel pumps; wheelchair lifts; power washer and hand tools used in the maintenance of transporta­tion vehicles; phone;  two-way radio; hand-held computer used on buses.

City Paid Benefits Include:

• Insurance plans as low as $0 for spouse & all dependents  - Plans with deductibles as low as $200; high deductible plan includes employer sponsored contribution to Health savings account). 
• Vision & Dental Insurance with no cost sharing for employee & all dependents
• $15,000 Basic Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
• Short Term Disability Insurance
• PERS Retirement
• Employee Assistance Program

Elective Benefits Include:

• Deferred Compensation
• Additional Life & Spouse Life Insurance
• Discounts on Parks & Rec Membership
• Discounts on Life Flight Membership
• Long-term care insurance

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.