← Back to Search
KCATA Logo

KCATA

Bus Driver (Operator)

📌MO🕑Full-time

3mo

Our Bus Operators are the driving force behind our Mission: "We connect people to opportunities."

Bus Operators do so much more than drive — they’re the reliable, friendly face for KCATA riders, ensuring reliable and on-time passenger connections. Often our drivers are guides, providing trip and service information to navigate our amazing transit system and can be found assisting residents and visitors.

Through hands-on training, learn the necessary skills to drive state-of-the-art buses and vehicles, and how to provide excellent customer service. Work in a safe environment. Our high-tech buses are equipped with surveillance cameras, GPS (global positioning system) that identifies the location of buses at all times, radio communication, and other technology that ensures a comfortable and safe ride.

DRIVER OPPORTUNITIES. Our driving force.

Bus Operators (Fulltime) – Large Bus

$25.317 to $33.756 per hour plus benefits*

Bus Operators (Fulltime) – Small Bus and RideKC Flex

$25.317 to $31.056 per hour plus benefits**

  • Experience not required. CDL training provided.
  • We pay you to train! Employees receive paid training to obtain your Class B CDL (Commercial Driver License) @ $24.11 per hour
  • Advancement opportunities
  • All local work
  • No overnight travel
  • Annual pay raises
  • Represented by Local 1287, Amalgamated Transit Union
  • Higher figure represents increases to the third year
  • Higher figure represents increases to the second year

Benefits are based on eligibility; see Benefits section below

Requirements

You are ready with:

  • Age 21 or older
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid Driver’s License with excellent driving record
  • Ability to pass a Motor Vehicle Records search, criminal background check, Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam and drug screening (All tests conducted and paid for by KCATA as part of the application process)
  • Class B CDL Permit OR Class B CDL with passenger endorsement and no airbrake restriction. We will train you on the rest of it!
  • Prompt and reliable attendance
  • Neat in appearance; comply with the dress code
  • Respectful, customer service oriented with a positive attitude
  • Open availability for flexible scheduling the first approximately two years as shift assignments and routes are based on seniority. During this time hours and shifts will vary daily; driving assignments can vary across transit vehicles, including large bus, small bus and Flex vehicles; routes are assigned quarterly, with bus operators selecting work assignments based on seniority.

What You Will Need To Start

  • Class B CDL Permit or Class B CDL with passenger endorsement and no airbrake restriction. We will train you on the rest of it!
  • Department of Transportation (DOT) eligible: Physical Exam and Drug Screening (Paid by KCATA)
  • Motor Vehicle Records search and criminal background check (Paid by KCATA)

What Kcata Operators Do And Job Rewards

  • Operate and drive a transit vehicle safely, courteously, and reliably throughout Kansas City metropolitan area
  • Build relationships with riders
  • Make stops at designated bus stops to load and unload riders
  • Navigate our amazing transit system and assist residents and tourists
  • Operate on-board computer fare boxes and destination signs
  • Perform pre/post trip vehicle inspections
  • Communicate with Operations Command Center/Dispatch Team to identify and ensure route times and safety

Benefits To Eligible Employees

Employee is eligible for benefits after training period plus 350 hours.

  • Competitive Pay with Annual Increases
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Short-term Disability and Life Insurance (KCATA pays a portion up to 80%)
  • Accrued Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid training to obtain your CDL Class B License (if required)
  • Total of ten (10) paid holidays plus employee's birthday and a floating holiday
  • Retirement Benefits through a Pension Plan.

Optional Benefits To Eligible Employees

  • Flexible spending accounts for pre-tax out-of-pocket family healthcare or dependent care
  • Voluntary and supplementary products (Long- and short-term disability, life insurance)
  • 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan

Employee Perks

  • Free gym memberships at KCMO Community Centers or Planet Fitness
  • Employee recognition events
  • Health and Wellness events