A Bus Driver, or Bus Operator, operates a bus to transport people locally or across long distances. Some duties often found in a Bus Driver job description include inspecting the bus for signs of damage at the start and end of shifts, adhering to traffic laws and collecting fares from passengers.
A Bus Driver should be able to fulfill various duties and responsibilities. The following are some duties and responsibilities a Bus Driver should be able to execute:
- Conducting pre- and post-route inspections of vehicles
- Following traffic laws and employer safety rules while driving
- Collecting fares from passengers
- Assisting passengers who need help getting on and off the bus
- Remaining in communication with dispatch throughout a shift
- Completing paperwork to report accidents, vehicle problems and other issues
- Cleaning the bus interior as needed
- Answering questions about bus routes, transfers, stops and fares
A competitive Bus Driver will have certain skills and qualifications, including:
- Familiarity with the parts and systems of buses
- Knowledge of traffic laws and regulations
- Safe driving record
- Active listening skills to hear instructions from dispatch
- Observation skills to identify problems with vehicles
- Memorization skills to learn and recall routes
- Basic math skills to calculate fares and collect payments