Bus Operator

Bus Operator – Halifax Regional Municipality

Halifax Regional Municipality is inviting applications for permanent full‑time Bus Operator positions with the Transit Operations division of Halifax Transit.

Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) is committed to reflecting the community it serves and recognizing Diversity and Inclusion as one of the Municipality’s core values. We have an Employment Equity Policy and we welcome applications from African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Women in occupations or positions where they are underrepresented in the workforce, Indigenous/Aboriginal People, Persons with Disabilities and 2

SLGBTQ+ Persons. Applicants are encouraged to self‑identify on their application.

Bus Operators are responsible for the safe operation of their vehicles and must follow schedule guidelines, sometimes under difficult circumstances. Customer service is a large part of the Bus Operator’s daily duties; they must be able to communicate effectively with all passengers and respond to their needs. Bus Operators must constantly monitor their passengers and other drivers and exercise a great deal of tact and diplomacy.

They must manage fatigue and adverse conditions while maintaining safety.

Candidates are REQUIRED to monitor the email address they used to submit the application.

• Report to dispatch or start location at the beginning of shift and review operators’ notices
• Check and visually inspect vehicle for pre‑trip inspection
• Drive vehicle and practice defensive driving techniques while following the Nova Scotia Motor Vehicle and Motor Carrier Acts and HRM policies at all times
• Assess and monitor vehicle operating conditions, and report issues
• Greet, acknowledge, and assist passengers and the public in a professional and courteous manner
• Monitor fare collection and passenger loads
• Anticipate potential problems, passenger emergencies and respond to medical emergencies
• Monitor the behavior of passengers to ensure the safety of others and contact the Communications Centre for assistance as needed
• Provide assistance to passengers as requested. All Halifax Transit buses have wheelchair‑accessible features, which require Bus Operators to assist passengers on and off the bus by operating ramps and securing wheelchairs.
• Ensure passenger safety and comfort
• Secure and return items to Lost & Found
• Conduct post‑operations procedures

• Grade 11 or equivalent education and related experience
• Three (3) years of recent driving experience
• A safe driving record (no more than 2 demerit points and no more than 1 at‑fault accident)
• Three (3) years of experience working in a service occupation dealing directly with customers
• Completion of a defensive driving course is an asset
• Driving experience in a transit environment is an asset

• Capable of meeting the physical demands of the job such as sitting for prolonged periods, reaching, gripping, push‑pull of steering wheel, twisting and turning of neck, sensory/perceptual demands along with good concentration
• Demonstrate dependability and reliability
• Strong problem‑solving skills
• React quickly and remain calm in difficult and stressful situations
• Understand, speak, read, write English to learn training materials, communicate effectively with the travelling public, and write reports
• Work variable hours including weekends and statutory holidays

Security clearance may be required. In‑person testing will be conducted as part of the selection process.

Permanent full‑time. Hours of work, vacation, and days off are determined by seniority and can impact a new Bus Operator’s personal and family life. Transit Services are available 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Bus Operators may be required to work weekends, both day and night shifts, with shifts that may change from one to the other with little notice.

Daily work assignments may be split shifts. Holidays and days off may not be consecutive or consistent.

As per the ATU Collective agreement, successful candidates will be compensated $27.37 per hour within the first year of service while…