40 Days to Become a Bus Driver: No Experience Needed, Earn While You Learn

40 Days to Become a Bus Driver: No Experience Needed, Earn While You Learn

A career as a Transit Operator offers more than just a job; it provides a pathway to stability, professional growth, and community service. Metro is actively seeking individuals ready to take the wheel and connect the region. This position offers a unique opportunity to enter the transportation industry without prior commercial driving experience. With a comprehensive paid training program, successful applicants earn a wage from day one while preparing for the road.

Job Description

The Transit Operator role is the backbone of the regional transportation network. The position requires a professional who is committed to safety and public service.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Safe Operation: Navigate transit vehicles through heavy traffic and various weather conditions, strictly adhering to traffic laws and safety protocols.
  • Customer Service: Create a welcoming environment, assist passengers with boarding (including securing wheelchairs), and answer questions regarding routes.
  • Reliability: Maintain specific timetables to ensure passengers reach their destinations on schedule.
  • Vehicle Maintenance: Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure the bus is in optimal operating condition.

Salary and Benefits

Metro provides a competitive compensation package that rewards employees immediately upon entry into the program.

Compensation:

  • Paid Training: Trainees earn approximately $22.10 per hour during the initial instruction period.
  • Starting Wage: Upon successful completion of training, the pay rate increases to $31.39 per hour.
  • Hiring Incentive: A total bonus of $3,000 is available ($1,000 awarded after graduating training, and $2,000 after completing probation/6 months of solo driving).

Benefits:

  • Healthcare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans are available for employees and eligible dependents.
  • Retirement: Participation in the State Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) and deferred compensation plans.
  • Paid Time Off: Vacation leave, sick leave, and holidays are provided.
  • Flexible Work: Variable scheduling based on seniority.

Hiring Process

The recruitment pathway is structured to ensure all candidates are fully prepared for the responsibilities of the job.

  1. Application: Submit a complete online application.
  2. Assessment: Complete an online assessment evaluating customer service skills.
  3. Interview: Attend a virtual or in-person interview.
  4. Conditional Offer: Receive a conditional job offer.
  5. Screening: Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam, drug screen (including marijuana), and a 5-year driving record review.
  6. Training: Enter the 40-day paid training program to obtain a Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and master operational policies.

This article describes the general process, which depends on the actual situation.

Application Requirements

No previous bus driving experience is required. However, candidates must meet specific criteria to be considered.

Essential Qualifications:

  • Age: Must be at least 21 years old.
  • License: Possess a valid Washington State Driver’s License.
  • Customer Service: Minimum of two years of experience providing customer service to the general public.
  • Driving Record: A clean driving history is essential. Disqualifiers within the last 5 years include reckless driving, DUI, hit-and-run, or license suspensions for moving violations.
  • Work History: A verifiable employment history.
  • Physical Ability: Must be able to perform physical tasks such as lifting up to 40 pounds and securing mobility devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required to apply? No. A CDL is not required at the time of application. The paid training program covers the necessary skills and testing to obtain a Class B CDL.

Is this a full-time position? New operators typically start with variable schedules based on seniority. Work assignments often include split shifts (morning and afternoon peaks). While many start part-time, opportunities to transition to full-time status are available as seniority grows.

How long is the training program? The initial training lasts approximately 40 days. Attendance is mandatory for every class during this period.

Is drug testing required? Yes. This is a safety-sensitive position. All applicants must pass a pre-employment drug screen, which includes testing for marijuana. Employees are also subject to random drug and alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Thank you for reading.