The City of Ames is currently accepting applications for part-time Transit Drivers. Under direction, Transit Drivers operate passenger buses on fixed routes and/or for demand response basis, as well as performs related work as required. Various routes are available.
Transit Drivers are eligible for a $1,000 hiring wage incentive payable in three installments as follows:
1) $250 on first paycheck
2) $250 at completion of training
3) $500 at 6 month mark
Pay
Pay is figured on a step-based pay plan depending on hours of service. Starting wage is $22.89/hour as of July 1, 2026.
Availability and Training:
Minimum availability once a newly hired Transit Driver completes training will be at least 15 hours per week. This helps us best fill our required business demands by ensuring our routes are consistently being filled.
Training hours are consistently open from 7am to 7pm, Monday through Friday.
Due to the extensive training program that is available to all new Transit Drivers, we request all applicants be committed to employment with CyRide/City of Ames for no less than two semesters.
In order to be considered for this position, all applicants must submit their online application by the deadline listed on this posting. Your application includes complete and accurate responses to the supplemental questions. Please keep in mind that submission of a resume in lieu of work history on your application or answering the supplemental questions is not sufficient.
Operates passenger bus on a fixed route or demand-response basis; picks up and discharges passengers; collects fares and transfer slips; maintains communication with dispatcher using 2-way radio; maintains scheduled route and trips as directed by dispatcher; announces time and transfer points over bus intercom; ensures safety of bus and passengers while on route. May operate wheelchair lift and tie downs. Promotes a positive image of Cy-Ride and the City of Ames by fostering positive public relations; provides passengers with schedule and route information; assists passengers needing help boarding and departing the vehicle. Performs pre-and post-trip vehicle inspections to identify damaged or defective equipment; performs minor maintenance to vehicle en route; reports accidents and equipment malfunctions to proper authority. Prepares end of route reports including route tallies, trip sheets, etc.
Other Job Functions: Operates passenger bus on special or group trips. Turns in lost articles. Reports unusual, unsafe or emergency situations such as stranded motorist, drunk drivers, etc. Participates in informational and training meetings. Provides input to safety committee. Provides feedback concerning operating policies and procedures. Provides in-service training and evaluates performance of new drivers. Performs general department duties as assigned.
Each employee is expected to continually strive to bring shared values to life through our Excellence Through People organizational culture. ETP values include: committing to continuous improvement; inspiring creativity and innovation; being customer driven; making data-driven decisions; championing employee involvement; striving for excellence; having fiscal stewardship; acting with honesty and integrity; exhibiting leadership; choosing a positive attitude; respect and dignity for one another; promoting safety and wellness; and cultivating teamwork. For leaders, this includes creating a work culture that brings these values to life. For all employees, this includes maintaining a Total City Perspective. The purpose of ETP is to deliver exceptional services to the public at the best price, and for employees to experience an enjoyable and stimulating work environment.
Employment Qualifications: No record of more than two total moving violations and/or accidents in the last three years; no more than two serious accidents within the last five years; no record of operating a vehicle while under the influence (OWI); no record of revoked or suspended driver's license in last five years; no record of hit and run accidents.
An offer of employment is conditional upon the following: satisfactory background check; obtaining a CDL Permit; employment physical; drug and alcohol test; and obtaining a CDL license.
Licenses and Certificates: Ability to obtain a valid Iowa Drivers License; ability to obtain Commercial Driver's License Permit within 30 days of start date; ability to obtain Commercial Driver's License (Class A or B with passenger and airbrake endorsements) within three attempts; must maintain Commercial Driver's License (Class A or B with passenger and airbrake endorsements).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Extensive knowledge of traffic laws, and rules and ordinances involved in operating a passenger bus. Knowledge of safety precautions in passenger bus operation. Knowledge of street names and locations in Ames. Knowledge of the principal causes of bus malfunctions and appropriate preventive measures.
Ability to operate a commercial passenger bus safely and in accordance with traffic laws and regulations; ability to deal with the public in a tactful and courteous manner; ability to identify vehicle malfunctions; ability to maintain records of fares received and complete end-of-route reports; ability to follow written instructions.
Required Physical Activities: Climbing stairs, stooping, reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, talking, hearing, repetitive motions.
Physical Characteristics of Work: Work requires exerting 10 pounds of force frequently and may require up to 50 pounds of force occasionally. Requires the use of arm and leg controls.
Vision Requirements: Standard for use with those who operate cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles.
Environmental Conditions: Subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions, noise, vibration, and vehicle exhaust fumes.
Equipment Essential to the Job: Transit bus, two-way radio, fare box, tally counter, intercom, maps, schedules, wheelchair lift and tie downs, transfers and cutter, anti-slip pellets, maintenance card, gate card, fire extinguisher, emergency triangles, ice-scraper, and de-icer spray.
Other Equipment Used on the Job: First-aid kit, anti-odor absorbent pellets.
Residency Requirement:
Within three months of completion of six-month probation period, must reside within an area bordered by the Boone and Story County lines on the north and south, State Highway 65 on the east; and on the west; County Road R27 north of Boone, and the Des Moines River south of Highway 30 to the Boone County line. Communities intersected by the borderline, and Zearing, shall be considered within the area.
Selection Process:
The selection process consists of an evaluation of education, experience and shift availability, a written exam, an interview, and completion of a commercial and motor vehicle record check, FMCSA PSP driver search, and criminal background check, which includes a sex offender registry check. All candidates will be notified by email of their application status.
**Preference may be given to applicants possessing qualifications above the minimum, especially based on availability with work hours that match business needs.**
