Transit Operator
Classification
Nonexempt
Position Type
This is a full-time or part-time position
Reports to
Operations Manager
Agency Overview:
The Southeast Tennessee Human Resource Agency (SETHRA) is one of nine Human Resource Agencies in the State of Tennessee serving primarily 10 counties in the southeast region. SETHRA provides a plethora of community services to vulnerable populations serving 50,000+ people each year. Our programs include everything from public transportation, justice services, and aging and disability services to food, utility, and housing assistance. At SETHRA, our work is rooted in service, collaboration, and compassion. We believe meaningful change happens when talented, purpose‑driven people come together to support one another and the communities we serve. Our team culture values integrity, open and healthy dialogue, mutual respect, and shared accountability—while still making room for laughter, connection, and celebrating wins along the way. If you are passionate about helping others, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want your work to make a real impact every day, SETHRA offers a rewarding place to grow and serve.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Summary
The position of Transit Operator is responsible for work performed under general supervision involving the transportation of agency clients; including elderly and disabled individuals. Transit Operators are expected to drive scheduled trips to client requested destinations while ensuring the safety and timely delivery of agency passengers. Qualifications include excellent vehicle operation skills and capability of interacting appropriately with diverse groups of people. Transit Operators must maintain a valid Tennessee Class D Driver’s License with an F endorsement.
Note: This position requires a criminal background check. Therefore, applicants may be required to provide information about their criminal history in order to be considered for this position.
Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
- Assists all passengers in and out of vehicle, transports passengers to designated destinations.
- Completes daily pre-trip and post-trip maintenance forms.
- Completes passenger manifest and correct operations of on-board device.
- Keeps vehicle clean, clutter-free and maintained at all times, notifies appropriate personnel of needed repairs usually the Operations Manager.
- Coordinates pick-up and delivery times of agency clients.
- Promotes participation in the agency’s transportation program to attract and retain clientele.
- Responsible for the safety of all passengers.
- Responsible for notifying the Transit Training Director of any violations received affecting motor records the same day as received.
- Performs related work as required.
Work Requirements
Ability to execute critical knowledge, skills and abilities to perform mathematical functions including addition and subtraction and operate passenger vehicle, with handicap lifts, in a safe and responsible manner.
- Substantial knowledge of current state and local laws and regulations pertaining to the operation of motor vehicles.
- Knowledge of local and regional geographic area including major highways, state routes and interstate systems.
- Some knowledge of current ADA (Americans with Disability Act) regulations.
- Capacity to learn principles associated with Defensive Driving.
- Ability to become certified in First Aid and CPR procedures.
- Ability to interact successfully with clients in a courteous manner to provide safe, timely and reliable transportation for clients.
- Ability to plan and schedule time efficiently to meet all appointments.
- Skill in the operation of motor vehicles and ability to learn wheelchair lift operations.
- Ability to operate a two-way radio system.
- Ability to use correct procedures keeping dispatcher informed of any problems or issues that arise.
- Ability to read, write and comprehend trip manifests, schedules and written instructions.
- Ability to learn basics of on-board devices.
- Understanding of local area and ability to navigate in other geographical areas as needed.
Additional Work Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Must maintain clean Motor Vehicle Record.
- Required Class D Driver License with an F endorsement.
- Employees in this job position are subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, drug and/or alcohol screenings.
- Must obtain and maintain a DOT (Department of Transportation) medical card throughout employment with SETHRA.
- Must wear glasses or contact lenses if a requirement on license.
- Must wear hearing-aids if applicable.
- Must attend and complete regular scheduled training sessions.
Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Work Environment
Transportation vehicle work environment.
Physical Demands
Ability to perform physical demands of the position, ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand and sit for extended periods of time.
Position Type and Expected Hours of Work
Days and hours of work vary, may include weekends and evenings.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
EEO Statement
SETHRA provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other legally-protected category. This equal-opportunity policy applies to all aspects of application for employment and the employment relationship.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $15.17 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
