Fixed Route Operator

The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) is the largest public transit agency in Iowa. DART provides transportation anyone can access through services that include 25 bus routes, paratransit, on demand and on call. Resources support those who vanpool, walk or bike to move through the region in an efficient and affordable way.

PAY:

Training Pay - $19.67/HR

Post -Training Pay- $20.08/HR

Full-Time Pay (As of July 1, 2025): $29.26/HR

WHAT DO WE OFFER?

· Health Insurance

· Dental Coverage

· Vision Care

· Group Life Insurance

· Deferred Compensation Plan

· I.P.E.R.S. Retirement System

· Long Term Disability

· Short Term Disability

· Flexible Benefit Plans

· Paid Time Off (PTO)

· Tuition Assistance

POSITION SUMMARY:

Fixed Route Operators are to operate assigned diesel and gasoline powered buses and a variety of DART vehicles safely and effectively. They follow established company policies and procedures regarding the transportation of passengers, vehicle safety and appearance, and the reporting of mechanical, traffic or behavioral problems encountered. Operators assist passengers with physical disabilities and maintain positive public relations with the passengers in the provision of ongoing transportation services.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

· Signing in on time, locate assigned bus in the garage and set all route signs.

· Inspect the bus and perform necessary vehicle checks (tires, gas, oil, lights, etc.)

· Report equipment malfunctions to appropriate shop personnel for correction.

· Collect fares

· Regulate heating, cooling and ventilation systems for passenger comfort.

· Report delays, breakdowns, and accidents using two-way radio.

· Submit written reports of all accidents involving his/her bus.

· Must comply with all local traffic regulations.

· Promptly pick up and drop off passengers according to the schedule that fits the needs of passengers

· Assist passengers to board and exit the vehicle safely, fastening wheelchairs and other medical or mobility equipment in a secure fashion

· Maintain records and trip logs that outline your driving activities

· Complete a pre- and post-trip inspection of the vehicle

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

· 21 years of age or older

· Must possess a High School Diploma/GED or equivalent.

· Possess (or be able to obtain) a valid Iowa CDL with Air Brake and Passenger endorsements.

· Must maintain driver insurability standards.

· Pass a pre-employment background check (Motor Vehicle Record and Criminal History)

· Complete a DOT physical through DART's physician

· Pass a DOT Drug Screen

· Job related experience is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of:

• Knowledge of the Des Moines and surrounding area city streets, landmarks, and related geography in the DART service areas
• Knowledge of principles and methods of bus transportation services at DART

Skills or Ability to:

• Ability to operate assigned equipment in a safe manner
• Ability to exercise good judgement and caution while driving
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely to convey information to other bus operators, dispatch, supervisors, and other agency personnel via in person and radio communications
• Ability to work and maintain professional composure while under stress and pressure
• Ability to work effectively in a diverse workforce
• Ability to follow and understand policies and procedures
• General knowledge of the Des Moines area
• Ability to operate a vehicle in city traffic
• Customer service experience is preferred

Special Requirements:

• Ability to work unusual hours, which may include early mornings, late evenings, weekends, holidays, split shifts
• Class B Iowa Commercial Driver’s License with Passenger and Airbrake Endorsements
• DOT Medical Certification must be maintained per the requirements of the DOT

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

On a normal workday, this position requires:

• Prolonged periods of sitting
• Extensive use of hands, fingers, and arms in operations of large buses
• Clarity of vision during both day and nighttime hours
• The ability to hear normal verbal conversation with or without corrective devices to communicate with co-workers and customers
• The ability to speak and read the English language clearly and concisely

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

· Occasionally exposed to disagreeable elements such as heat, cold, dampness, fumes, noise, etc.

DISCLAIMER:

This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts, or working conditions associated with the position. While this list is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current position, the DART Commission reserves the right to revise the functions and duties of the position, or to require that additional or different tasks be performed when circumstances change (e.g., emergencies, staff shortages, workload changes, rush jobs, or technological developments).