Shuttle Bus Driver Job Description

Are you looking for a way to make money from something you enjoy?

If so, and you have a knack for driving, working as a shuttle bus driver could be the perfect role. This job involves driving a bus between set locations.

This job is ideal for anyone who likes meeting new people and is willing to go the extra mile to help passengers. However, some people can find driving between a few fixed locations to be monotonous.

To discover if this is your next career move, check out my in-depth…

Shuttle Bus Driver Job Description

The job description for this role should begin by providing an overview of the company you would work for. It should outline the routes you would cover, the typical passengers, and other essential information. There should be details on the working environment, including your shift patterns and the base salary.

There should be details about the main duties you will be responsible for regularly. This can include providing passengers with information, helping with their luggage, and collecting fares. There should also be clear information on the licenses, skills, and training you need to do this job.

Duties And Responsibilities

Your daily duties will depend on the type of routes you drive and the company you work for. In some cases, you may be charged with collecting fares and performing additional tasks. Here are the main duties and responsibilities that typically go hand-in-hand with this role.

Following the Bus Schedule

It is important to collect your bus schedule and follow it to the letter. This can mean waiting a few extra minutes at a location when you are ahead of time. In other cases, you may need to find a safe way to make up time when you are behind schedule.

Assisting Passengers

You need to be ready and willing to help passengers when they need it. This can include helping older passengers to get on and off the bus. You may also need to help passengers with their luggage, shopping trolleys, and strollers.

Following Safety Procedures

You need to make sure that each passenger has a safe and smooth experience. Make sure you always follow the rules of the road and stick to the speed limit. You also need to follow other company safety procedures that have been established.

Bus Maintenance

You need to make sure that the bus has enough fuel and is well maintained. This includes performing checks at the start of each shift. Any issues that you find need to be reported as soon as possible.

Keeping Records

You need to keep detailed records of any accidents or incidents that occur during your shift. These can include incidents between passengers while you are driving. You need to report these to your manager and may be required to give evidence at a later time.

Skills And Attributes

In addition to having good driving skills, you need to have certain physical abilities to do this job. Particular soft skills will help you to do this job more effectively. Here are the key skills and attributes a successful shuttle bus driver needs to have.

Customer-service skills

You need to welcome passengers and be polite and friendly at all times. You need to be prepared to answer any questions passengers may have. You must be willing to go the extra mile to make sure passengers have a smooth experience.

Hand-eye coordination

You need to have fast reflexes and be able to respond to traffic conditions. You will need to pass a special test, which is likely to be given at random times during your career.

Hearing ability

It is essential to have good hearing to be a shuttle bus driver. You need to be able to hear a forceful whisper in one ear at a distance of five feet. However, it is possible to wear a hearing aid if you need to.

Patience

It is essential to keep a cool head at all times. This is particularly important when dealing with disruptive passengers. Engaging in road rage is a surefire way to lose this job.

Physical health

You have to pass a medical examination before you are cleared to do this job. The role is not open to people who have epilepsy or high blood pressure. Although you will be sitting most of the time, you should be reasonably physically fit.

Visual ability

You need to pass strict vision tests to do this job. According to federal regulations, you have to have at least 20/40 vision. This includes the ability to distinguish traffic light colors and have a 70-degree field of vision in each eye.

Education And Training

This job is usually open to people who hold a high school diploma or the equivalent. You will also need to complete certain training and obtain a commercial driver’s license. You must maintain a clean driving record and pass a background check and drug test before being hired.

Training

You will usually complete up to three months of training when you secure this role. This period will be slightly shorter if you already have a commercial driver’s license.

During your training, you will spend time on a driving course using a bus to practice a range of maneuvers. Once you have mastered these skills, you will start driving in light traffic. As you gain skill and confidence, you will make trips alongside an experienced and qualified driver. Your training can also include classroom instruction where you learn the rules of the road.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

Once you have obtained a commercial driver’s license, you will need to gain a passenger endorsement. To get this, you will need to pass a driving test that is directed by a certified examiner.

The minimum age for this role will depend on the state you live and work in. In most states, the minimum age is 18. However, you usually need to be at least 21 if you are driving across state lines.

If you’re convicted of a DUI…

You will need to pass a physical exam every two years to continue doing this job. You will also have to submit to random drug and alcohol tests. You will lose your commercial driver’s license if you are convicted of a DUI or another felony involving driving. You can find a list of other actions that can result in suspension on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website.

Ever Thought Of Becoming A Trucker?

Well, if you love being on the open road and enjoy your own company, then trucking is definitely for you! To better understand what the positions in trucking entail, check out my OTR Driver Job Description, Truck Driver Job Description, or even my Truck Dispatcher Job Description and Delivery Driver Job Description, as well as my Two Men A Truck Application if you’re looking to apply.

For those with a criminal record, Second Chance Trucking Companies hire felons specifically. Also, take a look at Trucking Companies That Hire Felons and Trucking Companies That Train And Hire Felons, as well as What Truck Driving Schools Accept Felons to see what your options are.

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For insight into the life of a trucker, I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Long Haul: A Trucker’s Tales of Life on the Road.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a job where you can make a living driving, this role is a good option. The typical salary for this role will depend on the company you work for. The typical starting salary for this role is around $25,000 per year.

Once you gain skill and experience, your salary can go up to at least $40,000 per year. Gaining additional licensing can considerably boost your earning potential.

If you excel in this role, you could earn up to $70,000 per year over time.

All the very best getting a job as a Shuttle Bus Driver!