Bus Driver

Under general supervision by the Operations Supervisor, and through work direction given by Dispatch staff and Road Supervisors, the Bus Operator is responsible for safely operating passenger transporting motor vehicles to provide service for the City of Fargo’s Transit Department. The primary responsibility of the Bus Operator is to provide safe, reliable, accessible and efficient public transportation to the general public.

The Bus Operator serves as a frontline ambassador of the City’s transit system. This role has a direct impact on service reliability and the daily mobility of the local community. The Bus Operator provides customers with courteous and attentive service including information, assistance with transfers, controlling the environment within the transit vehicle, and enforcement of transit procedures. This position involves the operation of equipment with significant financial value and requires a high level of personal accountability, attention to detail and adherence to safety standards.

• Operates transit vehicles safely and efficiently.
• Drives assigned routes in accordance with schedules and supervisor instruction.
• Operates multiple vehicle controls requiring practice and hand‑eye coordination to efficiently accomplish the desired task.
• Adjusts driving based on traffic, road, and weather conditions.
• With limited supervision, uses sound judgment and refers to departmental training in handling unexpected situations while in service.
• Manages incidents of public aggression with de‑escalation skills and conflict resolution.
• Clearly communicates and reports all incidents, accidents, safety concerns, and mechanical issues as required.
• Prepares and submits accident and incident reports in a timely manner utilizing proper forms in accordance with established guidelines.
• Develops an awareness of the space surrounding the vehicle and watches for persons or objects that may be injured or damaged by movements of the vehicle.
• Ensures passenger safety and accessibility.
• Adheres to ADA and Title VI regulations by assisting elderly passengers and individuals with disabilities through the use of ramps, lifts and securement devices.
• Offers assistance and directions to riders with limited English proficiency.
• Monitors passenger behavior and intervenes or reports when necessary to maintain safety for other passengers.
• Professionally and calmly responds to passenger inquiries, complaints or conflicts.
• In compliance with federal guidelines, determines and provides reasonable accommodations upon request from passengers.
• Ensures safety and operability of transit vehicles.
• Conducts pre‑trip and post‑trip inspections of vehicles. Inspections include checking brakes, lights, tires, fluid levels, and other critical systems.
• Completes digital Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) and reports any mechanical issues or safety concerns promptly; based on the nature and severity of the need, may recommend that the equipment be shut down and not used until the problem is corrected.
• Develops familiarity with proper equipment functions, including normal sounds, and notices equipment performance deficiencies so that they can be corrected in a timely manner.
• Collects proper fares and validates passes and identification cards, utilizing electronic fare registering and collection equipment. Exercises care in the handling of funds and other valuables.
• Communicates effectively, professionally, and courteously with co‑workers, supervisors and passengers.
• Courteously provides basic information, such as schedule, route, and fare information to passengers or members of the general public seeking assistance.
• Occasionally provides in‑depth explanations of policies and procedures to members of the general public.
• Utilizes in‑vehicle technology to notify Dispatch staff of equipment failures, schedule delays, update destination signs, and hazardous or dangerous conditions along roads and passenger loading zones.
• Promptly notifies Dispatch staff in cases of passenger unruly conduct and/or any threat to passenger or personal safety.
• Maintains compliance with Transit Department policies…