Coach Operator

** Salary:
** Position Range: $24.10 - $35.60
** FLSA Status:
** Non-Exempt
** Join the team that keeps the Tri-Cities moving!
**** OUR MISSION
** Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) provides exceptional and cost-effective transportation services that consistently exceed customer expectations while promoting the principles and practices of livable communities and sustainable development.
** OUR VALUES
** We value customer service, collaboration, diversity, fiscal accountability, innovation, sustainability and safety.  Employees and representatives of BFT are expected to uphold our values and mission.
** NATURE OF POSITION
** Operate fixed-route buses in the Benton and Franklin County service area, ensuring safe and timely transport of passengers. Display a professional attitude and provide effective customer relations.
** ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
*** Drive vehicle over specified routes or to specified destinations to transport passengers adhering to established time schedules; comply with traffic regulations ensuring passenger safety.
* Provide courteous and respectful behavior to passengers; respond to questions regarding fares, schedules, routes, and transfer points.
* Pick up and drop off passengers at designated bus stops; collect fares, tickets, and transfers; validate passes.
* Conduct a thorough visual pre-and post-trip inspections on assigned bus and equipment following Department of Transportation (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). report malfunctions, damages, or equipment failures accordingly.
* Assist passengers, such as elderly or disabled individuals in boarding or alighting bus; ensure they are properly seated; load/unload wheelchair/mobility device and secure appropriately.
* Troubleshoot enroute problems; notify dispatch regarding mechanical issues, potential safety concerns, traffic problems, road hazards, and accidents.
* Promote passenger safety; handle passenger conflicts and disruptive passengers; respond to medical emergencies; notify dispatch when assistance is needed.
* Implement Agency protocols in the event of vehicle or non-vehicle-involved accidents.
* Announce stops using public address system; keep passengers informed of delays.
* Complete paperwork including timesheets, day card, arrival and departure times, occurrence/incident reports, passenger counts, types of fares used, and log books.
* Perform special service assignments, bus bridges, and acts as replacement driver; assist in training new drivers.
* Maintain cleanliness of vehicle.
* Work with and maintain confidential information
* Demonstrate regular and punctual attendance.
* Other duties as assigned.
** KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
*** Understand and implement safety standards and practices for operating transit buses and equipment.
* Understand and apply applicable traffic and transportation laws, codes, and regulations.
* Familiar with basic servicing and checking procedures for various engine and vehicle components to perform preventative maintenance and simple emergency repairs.
* Familiar with the geography, transit routes, and landmarks of Benton and Franklin counties; read schedules, paper and/or electronic maps; comprehend directions of travel.
* Operate a two-way radio and public-address system.
* React quickly and calmly in an emergency and adopt an effective course of action within established guidelines.
* Effectively handle emergency situations and difficult customer interactions that occur while performing duties.
* Perform simple arithmetic.
* General methods of tactful public communication and customer service practices.
* Keep legible and accurate records.
* Learn new technologies, policies, procedures and guidelines established by professional organizations and/or governing agencies.
* Utilize office equipment and other relevant technology (software and systems) to meet business needs.
* Understand, follow, and communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
* Work as a team member and independently; effectively apply organizational and time management skills; meet deadlines and comply with Agency policies.
* Exercise sound judgment in making decisions.
* Focus on tasks and recall details; handle frequent interruptions.
** OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
**
* Collaboration:

Shares time and knowledge with others; adjusts priorities as circumstances dictate; follows through on commitments, accepts responsibility for actions, resolves interpersonal conflicts constructively.
* Diversity:
Demonstrates an awareness and respect of cultural and individual values.  Treats all people with dignity, courtesy and respect.
* Fiscal Accountability:
Actively contributes to the productivity of the agency; demonstrates good stewardship of company time and resources; displays high standards of ethical conduct.
* Customer Service:  Anticipates the needs of internal and external customers; delivers quality work products and services within expected time frames. Considers and responds appropriately to people in various situations.
* Innovation:
Considers new approaches to…