While in training, Bus Operator trainees earn $22 per hour. After successfully completing training, operators earn $24.76 per hour, with additional pay progression based on drive time hours.

New Bus Operators are also eligible for a $2,000 hiring bonus, paid in two installments (less applicable taxes).

Metro offers a generous benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (available after 90 days)

• Free transportation for employees, their spouses and eligible dependents.

• Retirement benefits through the Ohio Public Employee Retirement Savings program (OPERS). As an Ohio public employee, you will no longer pay into social security. You will contribute 10% of your eligible pay to OPERS and Metro will contribute 14% of your eligible pay.

No. You do not need a CDL or CLP to apply.

You can choose to obtain your CLP on your own by completing a written test through the Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana BMV (if you’re moving into the tri-state area, you will be required to transfer your license to the state you reside in) OR you can complete Metro’s paid CLP training week.

Ohio BMV CDL Classes

More than driving a bus, our operators serve as everyday ambassadors for the community. They build real relationships with riders, greet familiar faces, and become trusted, recognizable figures along their routes. Metro operators are helping people get to work, school, medical appointments, and life’s most important moments. It is not just a job. It is a role that keeps our region moving and connects people to opportunity every single day.

Daily responsibilities include:

• Operating the bus safely and following traffic laws

• Assisting passengers, including those with disabilities

• Collecting fares and issuing transfers

• Communicating with dispatch using a two-way radio

• Performing pre-trip inspections

• Reporting accidents, hazards, or mechanical issues

• Maintaining schedules and providing accurate route information

Metro’s newest full-time operators should fully expect to work all shifts including:

• Late nights and early mornings
• Mornings, afternoons, evenings and nights
• Weekends and holidays

Grow into the schedule you want. As you gain experience and seniority, you earn greater flexibility in selecting your work schedule. Senior operators receive priority when choosing routes, shifts, and days off, giving you more control over your work-life balance over time.

Metro’s part-time bus operators can expect a fixed schedule that consists of 5-hour shifts. Part-time shift options vary from morning, midday, evening, and late-night schedules. Metro’s recruiters gather two shift preferences from each part-time Bus Operator they hire and communicate their preferences to training and operations management. Please note that after training, the availability of our part-time Bus Operator’s preferred shift is subject to change based on availability and business need.

To qualify, applicants must:

1. Be at least 21 years old

2. Have at least three years of driving experience. Information ono

3. Possess a high school diploma or GED

4. Have no more than four points on their driving record

5. Pass a Department of Transportation physical and drug screening

6. Obtain a temporary CDL with required endorsements if offered the position

7. Complete the online Bus Operator assessment and interview

8. Pass a background check.

Metro’s comprehensive training program prepares Operators to take the wheel safely and effectively, regardless of previous experience. Over 8-to-12-weeks, trainees will complete the following:

• Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) classroom training – 1 week (optional)
• Transportation Safety Institute (TSI) classroom training – 2 weeks
• Road and Route Training – 4 to 5 weeks
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training – 2 weeks (for non-CDL holders)\
• Live Route Training w/ experience Operator – 2 weeks

Yes. The role involves regular physical activity, including:

• Sitting for extended periods while driving

• Climbing on and off the bus

• Assisting passengers and securing wheelchairs

• Bending, kneeling, and reaching to operate equipment

Candidates must be able to meet standard DOT physical requirements.

Yes! Metro is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship status, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, termination, promotions, or any other condition of employment or career development.