Bus Driver

Job Summary

Bus drivers transport passengers from place to place along established routes. They may operate transit buses, motor coaches or school buses.

Responsibilities:

Bus drivers' duties and responsibilities vary depending on the type of vehicle they operate and the type of service but in general, bus drivers:

Operate vehicles in a safe and courteous manner

Follow established routes and time schedules or drive to charter destinations

Inspect vehicles before and after trips

Submit simple reports at the end of each shift

Submit accident reports when necessary.

Transit bus drivers also greet visitors to Banff in a courteous and helpful manner, answer questions about our area in a professional and knowledgeable manner, answer questions about in town transit routes, collect fares, answer questions about schedules to local attractions and ski hills, store bags and equipment.  Bus drivers may also operate golf or airport shuttle buses, drive from city to city or operate local tour buses. In addition to driving, tour bus operators may greet sightseers and provide commentary during tours and charter trips.

Health & Safety

Working safely is a condition of employment.

Qualifications

There are no standard education requirements for bus drivers. However, individual employers may specify a minimum education requirement (e.g. Grade 11 or equivalent training and experience).

Employers prefer to hire bus drivers who have:

good customer service skills

Experience dealing with the public

Experience driving larger vehicles

Emergency first aid certification

A clear driving record.

In Alberta, a system of Classified Driver Licensing sets medical standards and licensing requirements for handling specific types vehicles. Employers may provide the training required to allow newly hired bus drivers to upgrade their Alberta Class 5 operator's license to the required Class 2 level. Depending on the type of bus, an air brakes endorsement may be required as well. Some bus lines require motor coach drivers to have a Class 1 license.

Many bus line and transit companies provide training programs (three to six weeks long) for new bus drivers. The training covers basic driving skills and traffic laws, bus schedule information, and customer service training.

In Alberta, Class 2 School Bus driving programs are offered by:

Some public colleges

Private vocational schools.

Program length, costs and admission requirements vary. However, applicants are generally required to be at least 18 years of age and have a valid Alberta Class 5 driver's license. A clear driving record or minimum number of demerits and/or a medical examination may also be required.

Before enrolling in any program, prospective students should discuss their training and employment options with experienced bus drivers and potential employers

Personal Qualities

Good health and vision

Good communication skills

The ability to be diplomatic and courteous in dealing with the public, from the first passenger to the last passenger each day

The ability to remain alert and maintain a high level of concentration

Good judgement and the ability to react quickly in emergency situations.

Knowledge of the area  

Pay Range

$7.00 -  $11.50 per hour (plus gratuities in some cases)