Position Overview
Transit drivers follow a designated route and schedule to transport passengers from one place to another.
They usually travel within a city but depending on the company that they are working on.
Also, they may be required to drive a vehicle between neighboring towns or even states.
This professional is usually the only person operating a bus or a boat – apart from driving a transit bus or boat, s/he also operates doors so that they open and close when passengers embark or disembark and also collect fares and handle ticketing services.
There isn’t any requirement for a college degree to become a transit driver.
Many professional driving schools offer courses in driving, and a candidate who has been trained is usually considered more seriously for this position.
Customer service orientation and decision making skills are two of the most important skills for a transit driver’s job as they need to be in constant contact with them.
See also: Transit Bus Driver Resume
Transit Driver Job Description and Duties
• Greet passengers as they prepare to embark bus, van or boat
• Ensure that passengers are seated comfortably and adequately
Drive vehicle following a designated route to transport passengers from one place to another
• Make frequent stops in keeping with a route schedule
• Announce each designation that the vehicle is about to reach or has reached
• Transport passengers on sightseeing tours and chartered trips
• Issue tickets, collect fares and provide change
• Provide passengers with information about routes and schedules
• Assist disabled passengers in embarking and disembarking from the vehicle
• Park buses on designated areas so that passengers can embark and luggage can be loaded
• Ensure that luggage is properly secured in the boot and is labeled properly
• Regulate heating and cooling systems of the vehicle to ensure a comfortable environment for passengers
• Report any delays or accidents along the route and ensure that any adverse situation is handled in a professional manner
• Ensure that the vehicle is cleaned and maintained at all times
• Check tire pressure and fluids as part of regular and preventative maintenance measures
• Change flat tires and ensure that spare tires are always available
• Handle emergencies on board and intervene in adverse situations with a view to resolution
• Inspect vehicles to make sure they are safe for traveling on long routes
• Advise passengers how to seat correctly on moving vehicles