Transit Operator - Bus Driver

The City of Hamilton is hiring a Transit Operator - Bus Driver to ensure safe and timely operation of transit vehicles while providing excellent customer service. Responsibilities include adhering to routes, collecting fares, performing vehicle inspections, and maintaining professionalism. Candidates must hold a valid Class 'G' driver's license and demonstrate strong customer service skills. The position requires working various shifts, including nights and weekends, in Hamilton, ON.
SUMMARY OF DUTIES

Working under the general supervision of the Superintendent and or Inspector you will play a critical role by establishing the tone for the entire customer service experience as Transit’s first point of contact with all customers. Your commitment to delivering a safe and positive commuting experience on every trip, to both new and returning customers, aligns with Hamilton Street Railway’s vision of becoming the first choice of commute within the City of Hamilton.

GENERAL DUTIES

Safely operate transit vehicles on time and in a proper manner including during adverse road and weather conditions on a predesignated route and schedule, work a variety of shifts including nights, weekends, holidays and split shifts.

As the first point of contact, act as an ambassador for HSR in providing unmatched high quality customer service to all transit clients on a daily basis. Maintain a high degree of ethical behaviour and professionalism even under trying circumstances.

Able to apply clear thinking in selecting the best course of action to resolve problems or address conflict.

Ability to withstand or recover from difficult situations.

In carrying out the duties of transit operations, be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle, safety of all customers and respect for other users of the road.

Maintain and adhere to designated operational routes & schedules and abide by Highway Traffic Act, Health & Safety Act, Manual of Operations, all other applicable legislation, City policies and procedures.

Responsible for the collection of fares and issuing of transfers while ensuring validity of transfers and passes. Reports and documents all incidents, accidents and injuries immediately. Completes all reports, i.e. accident report, trip report, delay slip, and time checks.

Understand our clients’ needs and how our work affects them. Ensure diplomacy and objectivity in interactions with customers. Assist customers in a respectful & courteous manner and provide information regarding transit routes. Remain respectful, courteous and polite under all circumstances.

Be proactive and help transit Control by reporting other information and problems impacting transit services, such as route blockages, accident locations, traffic congestion, weather and road conditions.

Perform daily vehicle inspections. Regulate heating, lighting, ventilation etc. Monitor vehicle performance, report any irregularities to Control. Ensure possession of adequate supplies prior to shift, such as Transfers, B.O. card and schedules.

Maintain a very high degree of punctuality and attendance even in adverse weather conditions to support 24 x 7 transit operations.

Work in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health & Safety legislation and all corporate/departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health & Safety.

Perform all other duties as assigned from time to time which are directly related to the responsibilities of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS
• At the time of application, must possess a valid Class ‘G’ driver’s license and a point-free driving record (no demerit points). Candidates must provide a recent copy of a driver abstract upon request. Driver abstracts cannot be older than 14 days upon submission.
• Strong direct customer service skills as demonstrated through previous work experience. Recent demonstrated experience specifically working with the public, normally acquired through substantial and direct customer service experience to include conflict resolution, mediation, negotiation, interpersonal communication and problem solving.
• Must be capable of obtaining and maintaining a Class "CZ" license per the MTO requirements.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced dynamic environment and thrive in a minimally supervised environment. Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Previous commercial driving experience or transit bus driving experience wouldbe considered a strong asset.
• Must be capable of meeting the physical demands of the job; such as sitting for prolonged periods of time, using extremity motion such as reaching, gripping, push/pull of steering wheel,…