Bus Operator

Overview

Join the Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) as a Full-Time Bus Operator and embark on an exciting journey every day. As a crucial part of our team, you will serve the community, connect with diverse passengers, and ensure safe and reliable transportation in the State College area. You can build a stable and fulfilling career as a Full-Time Bus Operator. Starting salary is $23.70/hour as a trainee.

Salary progression:
Year One $25.18/hour, Year Two $26.66/hour, After Year Two $29.62/hour.

Benefits include paid time off (vacation, sick, holiday, etc.), health insurance (medical, dental, vision), 401(a), 457, Roth IRA, Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), life insurance, long-term disability, short-term disability, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), free gym membership, and free transit pass. CATA is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. If you love driving and want to make a difference, this is the role for you.

• Conduct pre-trip inspections to ensure safety and compliance at the start of each shift.
• Navigate designated routes, transport passengers efficiently and comfortably, and assist riders boarding or disembarking as needed.
• Adhere to schedules, manage delays or route changes, and communicate with operations as required.
• Maintain safety by monitoring traffic and road conditions and complete necessary paperwork (passenger counts, incident reports) to support operations.

• Strong communication skills and a friendly, approachable demeanor when interacting with passengers.
• Excellent driving skills with attention to detail and a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.
• Good problem-solving abilities and the flexibility to handle unexpected situations, route changes, and passenger inquiries.
• Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and split shifts (40 hours per week is not initially guaranteed).
• Successful completion of CDL Class B with Passenger Endorsement training and testing is required.

CATA is a joint municipal authority established in 1974, celebrating 50 years of service. It serves portions of Centre County, Pennsylvania, including Penn State University. CATA operates fixed-route, microtransit, paratransit, and commuter services, and has historically operated an all-CNG fixed-route fleet. The agency reported recovering nearly 40% of its fixed-route operating expenses in 2023.

Apply by visiting the Careers at CATA website:

Applicants will be subject to a motor vehicle record (MVR) check, drug and alcohol testing, criminal background check, and a functional requirement evaluation. CATA participates in E-Verify. For more information on E-Verify, contact DHS at  or dhs.gov/e-verify. CATA is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.