Transit Operator

Salary : $18.69 - $22.34 Hourly

Location : Sarasota, FL

Job Type : Full-Time (Hourly)

Job Number : 24-00787

Department : Public Works

Division : Transit

Opening Date : 11 / 26 / 2024

Closing Date : 1 / 16 / 2025 11 : 59 PM Eastern

General Information

Work Location : 2411 Tallevast Road, Sarasota, Florida 34243

Work Hours : Sunday - Saturday, shifts vary from 4 : 30 am - 11 : 30pm

This classification performs skilled vehicle operation work in transporting citizens. Work involves responsibility for safe and efficient transportation of the general public, physically handicapped, and / or senior citizens, either on an assigned route in the County or to and from different locations in and around the Manatee County Region. Work requires dealing with passengers in a pleasant and courteous manner, providing information about the route or destination, operating a two-way radio according to FCC standards, and driving safely in a variety of weather conditions.

Note : Pre-Employment physical and level two background required. Medical Examination Certificate for Bus Transit System Driver required. To be employed as a Transit Operator, must meet the physical qualifications to operate a bus according to the stated requirements (local and / or state and / or federal).

Working Conditions

Indoor / outdoor situation; high noise environment while performing certain responsibilities. Lifting equipment up to 50 lbs. alone; up to 100 lbs. with assistance.

This is a safety-sensitive position. Employment and continued employment with Manatee County Government is contingent upon passing pre-employment and employment screenings identified in Section XX of the Personnel Policy, Rules, and Procedures Manual. An applicant / employee who fails to pass a drug / alcohol screening, shall be disqualified from employment in any class for a period of three (3) years.

Job Description

Essential Functions

These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

Applies knowledge of applicable traffic laws and regulations; applies knowledge of, or quickly learns and applies knowledge of, the geography of the County and applicable bus routes.

Operates a County passenger bus or van in transporting citizens, senior citizens, and / or the physically handicapped, on an assigned route, according to an assigned time schedule, while safely complying with traffic regulations.

Observes that correct fare is dropped in fare box; issues transfers; provides information to passengers including connecting schedules, routes and transfer points; assists passengers in determining how to get to desired destination; assists riders to enter and exit vehicle and secures wheelchairs in accordance with proper safety standards.

Records required operating data on daily trip record sheets such as mileage, hours of operation, fare box readings, and number of passengers by category; records total passenger count over route for specified period; prepares reports and maintains records as required.

Ensures passenger safety by enforcing rules of conduct and operation; checks bus for lost items and reports same.

Performs visual vehicle inspections and operational safety checks of assigned vehicle; keeps alert for mechanical or other equipment problems requiring attention; reports traffic hazards, accidents and other conditions requiring attention.

Regulates heating, lighting, and ventilating systems for passenger comfort.

Reports delays or accidents to dispatcher.

Communicates clearly, effectively and tactfully, orally and in writing.

Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with co-workers, dispatchers, supervisors, clients, etc.

May be required to work weekends / Holidays and subject to overtime.

Performs other related work (including weather or other extreme emergency duties) as required.

Minimum Qualifications

High School diploma or equivalent required.

Five (5) years driving experience or two (2) years Commercial Driving Experience.

Class "B" Commercial Driver's License with passenger endorsement and air brakes endorsement, or Class "B" CDL permit with passenger and air brake endorsements, by effective date of employment required.

Must be able to pass the CDL skills Test within six weeks with training provided.

Must successfully pass all tests and written examinations given.

Must successfully pass a DOT physical and pass a Level 2 background check.

Must be at least 21 years old.

More

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :

Defensive driving skills desired.

Knowledge of Florida traffic laws.

Knowledge of Manatee County streets and highways.

Skilled in safe driving techniques.

Excellent interpersonal relations.

Ability to adhere to assigned routes and time schedules.

Ability to comply with attendance and tardiness work rules.

Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.

Able to interact courteously and effectively with the public.

Able to develop and maintain good working relationships with fellow employees.

Simple arithmetic skills.

Able to read, write legibly, speak effectively, and understand verbal / written instructions.

Veterans Preference

In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.

EEO / ADA Statement

Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at 941-748-4501 x 3865.

Drug-Free Workplace

Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.

Emergency Response / Recovery Activities

All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.

Full Time Positions

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) :

• ComPsych- offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, legal, and work / life balance support.
• LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.
• Five (5) free visits annually for employees and covered family members.

Wellbeing Benefits :

Miscellaneous Benefits :

Paid Time Off :

Vacation Award : Applies to employees regulary sceduled to work 8 hours per day / 40 hours per week.

Years of Service Vacation Days

0-5 16.25 days

6-10 19.50 days

11 22.75 days

Insurance :

Retirement :

Career Wellness :

Education Benefits :

Flexible Spending Account :

Permanent Part Time - Benefits

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) :

Miscellaneous Benefits :

Paid Time Off :

per pay-period basis, any work schedule less that this will be earned on

a pro-rated basis

VERY IMPORTANT - When answering supplemental questions about experience, education or certification, please be sure the information is reflected in the Education, Work Experience and Certificates and Licenses sections of your application.

Must include Monthly Salary, Name of Employer, Location, Phone Number and Duties for each employer in Work Experience.

Note : "See Resume" is not acceptable.

Identify all gaps not related to medical reasons.

If you are claiming Veteran's Preference, please check category of eligibility

Which level of education have you achieved?

Do you have either five (5) years driving experience or two (2) years Commercial Driving Experience?

Do you have a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License with passenger endorsement and air brakes endorsement, or can you obtain a Class "B" CDL permit with passenger and air brake endorsements, by effective date of employment?

Are you able to pass the CDL Skills Test within six weeks with training provided?

Must successfully pass all tests and written examinations given.

Can you successfully pass a DOT physical and pass a Level 2 background check?

Are you at least 21-year-old?

Required Question

Salary : $19 - $22