Coach Bus Operator Apprentice

Job Title: Coach/Bus Operator Apprentice Class 9 (CDL Permit Holders): September 14 2026; Class 10 (Full CDL Holders): September 28 2026

Status: Represented ATU 998

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Department: Transportation

Wage: 1^styear $25.74 per hour

Would you like to get a head start on your career Then apply to become an apprentice! Gain valuable mentoring throughout your first year as a bus operator. MCTS in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development offers the Coach/Bus OperatorApprenticeship program a great first step toward a long-term career with us.

JOB SUMMARY:

Milwaukee County Transit System is seeking to hire Apprentices for the Coach/Bus Operator position. This is a State approved thirteen (13) month registered apprenticeship program where you will receive classroom and hands-on training from experienced mentors. During the training period Apprentices will obtain their CDL and learn all aspects of safely operating a passenger bus all while providing an essential service to the communities of Milwaukee County.

As an Apprentice you will learn to drive in a safe efficient and courteous manner while adhering to a pre-determined route and schedule. Apprentices will exhibit excellent customer services skills and allow passengers to board travel and alight at scheduled addition to intensive training Apprentices will also meet with a mentor who will provide additional guidance to ensure the success of the Apprentice. Upon successful completion of the program Apprentices will receive a Coach/Bus Operator Journey workers card issued by the State of Wisconsin.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Safely operate transit bus in strict compliance with Milwaukee County Transit System policiesguidelines and procedures as well as followall Wisconsin and Federal traffic laws and regulations.
• Collect fares according to existing fare structure inspect bus passes and issue valid transfers in a professional courteous manner.
• Operate the radio farebox and other systems within the bus in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Provide public timetables and accurate information to customers.
• Call street locations transfer points major intersections and other requested stops in compliance with ADA guidelines and Company policy.
• Provide accessibility for disabled passengers to board and alight by properly operating all ramps and lifts and safely securing passengers in compliance with ADA guidelines and Company policy.
• Demonstrate excellent customer service skills when interacting with all passengers.
• Perform vehicle inspections before during and after scheduled work assignments. This includes internal and external areas of the bus reporting all defects on proper forms.
• Monitor Special Bulletins and detours daily and make appropriate adjustments as needed.
• Follow Company policy for handling lost articles including a visual inspection of the bus at the end of the line and at pull-in.
• Complete accident and incident reports accurately and legibly as necessary.
• Complete fare box passenger and bus maintenance defect reports as necessary.
• Frequently meet with mentor to discuss the position and respective challenges and successes.
• Conduct self in an appropriate manner as a representative of Milwaukee County Transit System.
• Perform other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proof of employment eligibility/authorization to work in the U.S.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must be able to work any hour of the day any day of the week.
• Must have a valid Class D Wisconsin drivers license (non-probationary) for at least one (1) year prior to the date of application.
• Valid CDL Class B License with P Endorsement with no Air Brake restriction (or valid CDL permit 14 days prior to start date or transfer date).
• Maximum ofsix (6) pointsaccrued on motor vehicle record during the 3 years before the start date.
• No revocation or suspension as a result of a moving violation during the last 3 years before the date of hire.
• No OWI/DUI violations unless based on circumstances an exception may be granted.
• Stable work history with excellent attendance and punctuality record.
• Successfully complete the Bus Operator Training Program.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to operate New Flyer and Gillig Buses.
• Ability to effectively drive a bus handle emergencies and use standard defensive driving techniques.
• Ability to adapt to constantly changing operating environments.
• Ability to work unusual hours including split shifts weekends holidays early mornings latenightsand overtime as required.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with passengers and staff.
• Ability to de-escalate situations when they arise on the bus.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and common sense whenmaking quick decisions with minimal supervision.
• Ability to read write and speak loud clear understandable English.
• Ability to read and understand maps and timetables which includes determining directions and following a mappedroute.
• Ability to keep a timely schedule while in service.
• Knowledge of streets current bus routes and stops.
• Knowledge of Bus Operator rules regulations policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of current fare structures and the corresponding rules and regulations.
• Ability to purchase and wear company uniform.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

• Ability to tolerate varying temperatures including heat cold and precipitation while inspecting exterior of bus.
• Ability to tolerate varying temperatures including excessive heat and cold while operating bus.
• Ability to climb stairs reach above shoulder level walk bend stoop lift push and pull without assistance.
• Ability to operate pedals.
• Ability to sit without discomfort for an extended period of time.
• Ability to fit behind the steering wheel with adequate clearance.
• Ability to work in an environment with dust exhaust fumes diesel fuel oil grease and various noise levels.
• Physical requirements are those described light work exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally up to 10 pounds of force frequently and/or a negligible amount of force constantly having to move objects.

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT:

The above are general requirements that must be met for consideration. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of job qualifications or job duties. Hourly wages are based on the ATU Local 998 Collective Bargaining Agreement pay progression scale and are non-negotiable. Wages reflected include Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) and shift differentials as applicable.

Milwaukee Transport Services Inc. (Milwaukee County Transit System) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin age military status status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to workplace safety and will perform pre-employment drug testing background checks and pre-employment physicals as subject to the job requirements.