The posting
Job Description
City of Norman Public Transit Bus Operator Salary: $23.59 houly starting JOB SUMMARY This position is located in the NORMAN Operations Division of EMBARK and reports to a Route Supervisor or other designated Operations management personnel. The Bus Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and courteous transportation of passengers while adhering to all applicable federal, state, local, and EMBARK regulations, policies, and operating procedures. This position serves as a frontline ambassador for EMBARK by providing exceptional customer service, maintaining schedule reliability, ensuring accessibility for all riders, and promoting a culture of safety throughout daily operations.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
- Safe Vehicle Operations Operate fixed-route, special events, charter, and other assigned transit vehicles in a safe and efficient manner. Prioritize passenger, pedestrian, and public safety over schedule adherence. Follow all traffic laws, defensive driving practices, and EMBARK operating procedures. Wear seatbelts and utilize safe driving techniques at all times. Exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and follow established emergency response protocols. Never leave a vehicle unattended without properly securing it.
- Vehicle Inspection, Safety, and Equipment Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections using the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR). Monitor vehicle gauges, warning indicators, wheelchair accessibility equipment, and onboard systems during service. Report mechanical issues, safety concerns, defects, and maintenance needs immediately to Dispatch or supervisory personnel. Ensure assigned vehicles meet cleanliness and safety standards before, during, and after operation. Perform end-of-shift inspections for sleeping passengers, lost items, cleanliness, and vehicle security.
- Customer Service and Public Relations Greet customers professionally and provide accurate information regarding routes, fares, schedules, and services. Assist passengers courteously while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor in challenging situations. Utilize tact, diplomacy, and effective communication when interacting with the public, coworkers, and supervisors. Maintain a customer-focused approach that reflects positively on EMBARK. Refrain from accepting tips, engaging in confrontational behavior, or conducting personal conversations while operating a vehicle.
- ADA Accessibility and Passenger Assistance Provide reasonable assistance to passengers with disabilities in accordance with ADA requirements. Deploy ramps, kneel buses, and properly secure mobility devices when required. Offer and assist with appropriate mobility restraint systems. Make required stop announcements and accessibility-related communications. Ensure accessibility equipment is functional and report deficiencies immediately.
- Schedule and Route Compliance Operate assigned routes according to published schedules and run assignments. Follow designated routes without unauthorized deviations. Notify Dispatch when traffic, weather, incidents, or other circumstances impact schedule adherence. Maintain timepoint performance standards and avoid early departures. Adapt to detours and service modifications as authorized.
- Fare Collection and Policy Compliance Collect and process fares in accordance with established EMBARK policies and procedures. Explain fare structures and payment options to customers. Enforce fare policies professionally and report fare disputes or evasion through established channels. Maintain accountability for fare-related activities and adherence to financial controls.
- Communication and Reporting Maintain ongoing communication with Dispatch and Operations personnel using radio and other approved communication systems. Report accidents, incidents, customer concerns, suspicious activity, hazards, and service disruptions immediately. Accurately complete all required reports, including Daily Operator Reports, Accident Reports, Incident Reports, Operator Special Reports, surveys, and related documentation. Distribute customer information cards and complete required documentation following accidents or incidents.
- Professional Conduct and Compliance Adhere to all EMBARK policies, procedures, operating rules, bulletins, SOPs, and applicable labor agreements. Maintain a professional appearance through compliance with EMBARK uniform and grooming standards. Carry all required operator credentials, licenses, certifications, identification badges, and safety equipment while on duty. Refrain from unauthorized activities, inappropriate language, horseplay, mobile device use while driving, and conduct inconsistent with EMBARK standards. Attend all mandatory training sessions; training participation is tracked and reviewed quarterly. Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all work-related activities.
- Other Duties Perform related duties and special assignments as required. Assist with special event service, training activities, emergency transportation operations, and other operational needs as assigned.
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)
- On-Time Performance (OTP): Maintain OTP above 80%; proactively address dips and strive for month-over-month improvement. 90% if assigned to BRT.
- Early Departures: 0% unauthorized early departures.
- Data Accuracy: Achieve 100% completion of logs, reports, pre and post vehicle inspections and notifications by end of shift.
- Incentive Program Participation: Track and promote team engagement in incentive programs; ensure progress and awareness.
- Absenteeism: Less than 2 unscheduled absences per quarter.
- Accidents: Zero preventable accidents.
- Customer Service: Review of customer commendations and complaints
- Professional Development: Complete required training, ride checks, route assessments, and training hours.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Previous customer service, public transportation, commercial driving, or public-facing experience preferred.
- License: Valid Oklahoma Class B CDL with Passenger (P) endorsement within 60 days of employment. Class D Oklahoma Driver’s License with CDL Permit prior to employment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed primarily in transit vehicles and other transportation-related environments.
- Frequent exposure to moving vehicles, traffic, weather conditions, dust, fumes, noise, vibration, and temperature extremes.
- Work schedules may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, split shifts, overtime, and emergency response assignments.
- Operators may work independently for extended periods while maintaining communication with Operations personnel.
- Must be able to remain seated for extended periods while maintaining continuous situational awareness and safe vehicle operation.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Vision sufficient to read and draft written and computer-generated communications.
- Speech and hearing sufficient to communicate in person, by telephone, and by two-way radio in English.
- Ability to safely reach, use, and manipulate vehicle controls, switches, levers, ramps, and safety equipment.
- Routine ability to bend, stoop, twist, reach, and climb less than 6 stairs; occasionally lift/push/pull objects weighing up to 20 pounds.
- Able to walk on uneven surfaces up to one-half mile.
- Maintain balance for extended periods while vehicles are in motion.
- Adapt to various temperature extremes, including heat, cold, moisture, and wind.
- Ascend and descend platforms up to 18 inches from the floor.
- Tolerate repetitive movements: bending and overhead reaching.
- Pass color/vision examinations as required.
- Hear and distinguish auditory signals as required.
- Work in a safety-sensitive environment.
PRE‑EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
- DOT Physical & Drug Screen: The successful applicant must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination, which includes a drug screen.
- Background Check: EMBARK will conduct a background investigation/verification. Applicants will be provided contact information for any third‑party reporting agencies used to collect background information as part of a conditional offer of employment.
- Substance Abuse Policy: Applicants will receive a copy of EMBARK’s Substance Abuse Policy upon conditional offer and acceptance, and before any health screen/physical examination and drug test.
DRIVING RECORD STANDARD
- Positions that require operating a COTPA vehicle may be disqualified by three (3) or more moving traffic violation convictions (excluding parking tickets) within the last two (2) years.
APPLICATION GUIDELINES
- Provide at least three (3) years of employment history, including reasons for leaving each position.
- Explain all gaps in employment history.
- Provide contact information for current and previous employers.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY & ACCOMMODATIONS
- EMBARK is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity and inclusion.
- EMBARK does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, creed, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity/expression), age, genetic information, disability, or political affiliation.
- If you require reasonable accommodation during any part of the hiring process, contact the Human Resources Department at (405) 297‑1588.
VETERANS PREFERENCE
- A five‑point preference will be awarded in the initial scored selection process for honorably discharged U.S. military veterans.
- Qualified applicants must submit a copy of DD Form 214 indicating discharge type/character of service in person, by mail, or by fax at (405) 316‑3346.
SAFETY‑SENSITIVE CLASSIFICATION (UNITY BILL)
- This position is designated safety sensitive under the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act, 63 O.S. § 427.1 et seq. (OSCN 2019), effective August 29, 2019.
- Employees in safety‑sensitive positions may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination if they test positive for marijuana components or metabolites, even if they possess a medical marijuana license.
FORMER EMPLOYEES
- To participate in the selection process, former employees must be eligible for rehire.
- If you are unsure of rehire status, contact EMBARK Human Resources at (405) 297‑1558.
- If rehire status is coded “Not Eligible,” “Eligible 3,” or “Conditional,” you must request a review of rehire status.
About Us
About Us
Oklahoma City is one of the fastest-growing metros in the United States and is the 20th largest city in the nation. For nearly two decades our residents have continually invested in our community to make it a place people can find belonging, visit and call home. Our employees are at the heart of those investments–delivering essential services our residents expect and creating a strong and thriving city for all people. Visit Oklahoma City--A Great Place to Live and Work! to learn more about our city.
For more than 50 years, EMBARK has offered safe, reliable transportation for the citizens and visitors of Oklahoma City. Beginning with just 18 buses in 1966, we’ve grown to into a robust transit system that includes streetcars, river cruises, parking garages and more.
As an industry leader in public transportation and more importantly, as the place where you choose to work, you need to know the keys to be successful during your career with EMBARK.
EMBARK’s vision is to provide “world class transportation accessible to all, and all want to access it.”
With a clear picture of our destination through our Vision and Mission, our Core 4 Values — be safe, be there, be open and be kind act as our compass. Living into our values guides our decisions and ensure we stay on course.
In all that we do, we focus on three key audiences - our employees, our customers and our board - to create a great place to work, enhance the status, use and understanding of our services, and preserve confidence in what we do with key stakeholders.
No matter what position you are applying for, our team members help is essential to the success of EMBARK. Each team member is integral to the success of our organization and we couldn’t do it without you.
Whether we’re creating an inclusive and empowering work environment, improving our customers’ experiences or cultivating strong relationships with key stakeholders, our Vision, Mission, and Values will help guide you to decide if EMBARK is the right organization for you.
