Bus Operator

DIVISION: Operations
LOCATION: 4305 East 21st Ave Tampa, FL 33605
PAY RATE: $21.84/hr. Per Union Contract

*****Next Class: July 6, 2026 *****

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:

• Perform 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 by the ADA/FTA.
• 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.
• Conduct special surveys, passenger counts and distribute 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.
• Attend all required trainings.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

• Performs other work-related duties as assigned.
• Work schedules are based on Collective Bargaining Agreement and seniority.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience:
• High School graduate or G.E.D. certificate required.
• Two (2) years of driving experience (commercial and/or non-commercial) required.
• Two (2) years of customer service experience preferred.
• Must be a minimum of 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.
• Must have possessed a United States driver’s license for two (2) 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, written 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 areas of the 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 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 particles.

It is the responsibility of all HART employees to provide a safe and secure environment for HART customers, contractors, visitors and fellow co-workers. HART employees are also responsible for:

• Adhering to stated policies and procedures relating to health and safety, security, and quality management.
• Recognizing and reporting all accidents and hazardous conditions.
• Assisting in the development of workplace safety procdures for their respective departments.
• Promoting workplace safety procedures within their department.
• Adhering to procedures relating to the proper use and care of equipment and materials for which the role has responsibility.

Note: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. The statements are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All employees may perform other duties as assigned.

The Agency promotes a safe and healthy work environment and provides appropriate safety and equipment training for all personnel as required.

EEO Compliance: HART is committed to equal employment opportunity for all persons, regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or other status protected by Federal or State law.

ADA Compliance: Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during the application process and/or interview process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.