Who We Are:

The Salem Area Mass Transit District, known as Cherriots, is a great public transit system. We work hard every day to give our customers the best experience possible. We provide local, regional, and paratransit services in Marion and Polk counties. But we do more than just transportation. We help people get to jobs, shopping, and schools. We help businesses find more workers. We ensure that people can enjoy recreational, social, faith-based, and other activities without needing a car.

Cherriots is an equal opportunity employer that aims to create a workforce that reflects our diverse community. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

About the Role:

Under the general supervision of Operations Supervisors, Transit Operators will operate buses to provide fixed route services to riders in the Salem-Keizer area.

How You Will Make an Impact:

• Based on federal guidelines, perform pre-trip inspections of buses and make necessary adjustments or corrections before moving buses.
• Operate buses following designated routes and schedules; the District established safety standards and traffic laws of the State of Oregon.
• Collect and process fares and issue day passes.
• Provide riders and the general public with information regarding the Districts transit system courteously and professionally.
• Assist with boarding and disembarking for riders with disabilities and others who need assistance.
• Communicate immediately by bus radio all emergency conditions, accidents, or unusual incidents in an accurate manner.
• Assume control of the scene of a security incident or accident until the arrival of emergency personnel and/or Operations Supervisor.
• Complete required reports and forms accurately, thoroughly, and promptly.
• Act as a positive representative of the District.
• Interact with the general public using courtesy, tact, and good judgment.
• Work cooperatively with others, be respectful of co-workers, and promote teamwork.
• Report to work on time and on a consistent and predictable basis. Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position. This role requires that employees be present and engaged during assigned work hours to effectively collaborate with team members and customers and fulfill operation needs. The ability to consistently adhere to a defined work schedule and be present onsite is crucial to the successful performance of this role's job duties and responsibilities because if the employee is not present, someone else would be required to perform their duties.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

What You Will Need to Be Successful in This Role:

• Working knowledge of customer service techniques.
• Communicate, both orally and in writing, with other employees and the general public at the level necessary to satisfactorily perform the duties of the position.
• Safely operate any assigned transit bus or other assigned vehicle on a designated route while maintaining an accurate time schedule.

Special Requirements:

• Oregon driver's license is required. Oregon commercial driver's license (CDL) is preferred. We encourage candidates who do not have a CDL to apply. Upon hire, you must obtain a commercial learner permit with passenger endorsement, no air brake restrictions, and a valid medical examiners certification (med card) before your first day of work. When you start work, we will help you obtain your CDL during our paid training.
• Clean driving record.
• Pass a drug test (including marijuana) and criminal background check.
• Ability to work varying work schedules. The District operates service seven days a week from early morning to late evening. Work schedules are bid three times a year based on seniority.

Required Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or GED.
• One year of successful experience working with the general public. OR Any satisfactory, equivalent combination of related experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities listed above.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to walk, stand, and sit for extended periods; must be able to see, hear, and talk effectively; must be able to use hands for typing, handling objects, and controlling tools or equipment; and use hands and arms to reach for items.
• Regularly carry items weighing up to 2 pounds. Lift and push/pull items weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Will need to bend, twist, climb, crawl, and kneel frequently as part of their tasks.
• Frequent changes in body positions are necessary.

Working Conditions:

• Duties are performed in areas where they may be exposed to loud noise, severe weather conditions, and fumes within a bus maintenance shop environment, while riding transit vehicles, or while outdoors.
• Extensive interaction with the general public and large groups.