Bus Operator

The City of Santa Rosa, a vibrant charter city in Sonoma County, California, is renowned for its rich history, natural beauty, and dynamic community. Incorporated in 1868, Santa Rosa serves as the county seat of Sonoma County, located just 55 miles north of San Francisco. The city spans 41 square miles and supports a diverse population of approximately 170,000 residents. It is famously situated in a region celebrated for its premier wine country, thriving agricultural landscapes, majestic redwood forests, and proximity to rivers, lakes, and the Pacific Ocean. This unique blend of natural and cultural resources makes Santa Rosa an attractive place for residents and visitors alike. The city boasts a balanced economy with employment opportunities spanning management, professional services, manufacturing, sales, tourism, transportation, construction, and service industries. It is also a key player in supporting the agriculture and tourism sectors along California's North Coast. Santa Rosa offers a full spectrum of municipal services including police and fire protection, infrastructure maintenance, water and wastewater utilities, housing services, economic development, public transit, parking, and a variety of recreational and cultural amenities such as parks and a municipal golf course. The city maintains a commitment to historical preservation and environmental sustainability, enriching the quality of life for its residents and preserving its valuable resources for future generations.

CityBus, the City of Santa Rosa’s award-winning municipally owned transit system, is currently seeking motivated individuals to join its team as Bus Operators. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the community by delivering reliable and safe public transportation services. No prior experience is necessary, as CityBus provides comprehensive on-the-job training spanning 5 to 8 weeks. During this period, new Bus Operators will learn how to safely operate transit buses, transport passengers on fixed routes, and engage effectively with the public. The position begins as part-time with an average of 37 to 40 hours per week during training, including classroom instruction and preparation to obtain a Class B driver’s license with Passenger Endorsement from the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Successful candidates will participate in route training under supervision until deemed competent to operate independently. Although the initial classification is part-time, regular part-time Bus Operators are expected to be available on short notice seven days a week and may be eligible for full-time positions without additional testing as vacancies arise. Shifts vary, covering early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, reflecting the needs of a 24/7 public transit service.

The ideal Bus Operator candidate will demonstrate a strong work ethic with pride and dedication, a commitment to exceptional customer service, and a focus on safety adhering to all relevant regulations and standards. The role demands both independent initiative and effective teamwork, with an emphasis on professionalism, courtesy, and responsibility. Bus Operators must comply with federal laws regarding drug and alcohol use for commercial drivers and maintain a satisfactory driving record as per the City’s standards. The City of Santa Rosa values equity, inclusion, and diversity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for this rewarding position.

CityBus offers excellent benefits including retirement plans through CalPERS, competitive leave packages covering vacation and sick leave, a choice of health plans, and employer-paid vision and dental coverage. Additional incentives include a $500 annual wellness benefit (pro-rated based on employment status), shift differentials for evening hours, and generous holiday pay. The City also provides opportunities for career growth within the transit system and other municipal departments. The role is integral to maintaining high-quality public transit services that enhance mobility, support economic development, and contribute to Santa Rosa’s vibrant community life. If you are ready to make a positive impact and join a team dedicated to public service, CityBus is looking for you.