Trainee Bus Operator

Description:

The City of Culver City is seeking enthusiastic and safety-oriented individuals to join its Transportation Department as Bus Operator Trainees. This role offers an excellent opportunity to begin a rewarding public service career, helping provide safe, reliable, and friendly transportation for the residents and visitors of Culver City and surrounding West Los Angeles communities.

Culver City, a vibrant community incorporated in 1917, operates seven bus routes across approximately 33 square miles, including areas such as Venice, Westwood, Playa Vista, and Century City. As a Bus Operator, you will play a vital role in connecting these communities while ensuring a positive and secure passenger experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Safely operate public transit buses on assigned routes, adhering to all traffic and safety regulations.

• Provide courteous and professional service to passengers, assisting those with disabilities or special needs.

• Manage fare collection, ensure accurate recording of passenger data, and maintain on-time route performance.

• Conduct pre- and post-trip inspections to ensure vehicle readiness and report any mechanical issues.

• Maintain effective communication with dispatchers and supervisors, especially in case of route changes or emergencies.

• Uphold the City’s customer service standards, representing Culver City with professionalism and integrity.

• Participate actively in all required training and safety programs to maintain compliance with transportation policies.

Training & Employment Progression:

• Trainee Period: 6–8 weeks of paid training at $19.69/hour.

• Regular Part-Time Appointment: Upon successful completion, employees will be promoted to Regular Part-Time (RPT) status at $26.03/hour, working up to 39 hours per week with benefits.

• Full-Time Opportunities: Eligible RPT employees may later advance to full-time roles as positions become available, earning up to $35.07/hour.

Sign-On Bonus:

• Total Incentive: Up to $2,500

  • $750 after completing training

  • $750 after six months of employment

  • $1,000 after 12 months of service

  • Additional $750 bonus for candidates already holding a valid Class B driver’s license

Minimum Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Valid California Class “C” driver’s license at time of application.

• Clean driving record for the past three (3) years:

  • No more than one (1) moving violation.

  • No at-fault accidents (unless proven otherwise).

  • No DUI convictions or license suspensions related to alcohol or drugs.

• Must obtain a California Class “B” license with passenger endorsement and valid medical certificate during training.

• Must possess a Railroad Approved Watch upon completion of training.

• Must provide an original California DMV K-4 driving record (no older than 30 days) with official water seal at the time of application.

Application & Examination Process:

1. Application Review: Only complete applications with required documents will be accepted.

2. Written Test: Evaluates reading comprehension, judgment, and communication skills.

3. Interview: Conducted by the Transportation Department.

4. Background & Reference Checks: Including fingerprinting and Live Scan verification.

5. Medical & Drug Screening: Candidates must pass pre-employment evaluations per Department of Transportation (DOT) standards.

Schedule & Work Environment:

• Service hours: 4:30 AM – 1:00 AM, seven days a week including holidays.

• Rotating shifts; weekend and holiday availability required.

• Regular Part-Time employees work up to 39 hours per week.

Benefits (for Regular Part-Time and Full-Time Employees):

• Comprehensive healthcare, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement benefits and pension plans.

• Paid time off and holidays.

• Opportunities for advancement to full-time roles.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The City of Culver City is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, veteran status, national origin, or any other protected characteristic.