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The Bus Operations Instructional Specialist delivers hands-on and classroom-based training for bus operators and other assigned operations employees in support of safe, reliable, and customer-focused bus service. Reporting to the Bus Operations Training Supervisor, this role provides instruction in vehicle operation, pre-trip inspection, defensive driving, route familiarization, customer service, ADA-related operating practices, and other assigned training topics.

This position works directly with trainees in classroom, range, in-vehicle, and on-road environments and is responsible for helping employees develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviors needed to perform safely and effectively in revenue service. The Bus Operations Instructional Specialist observes performance, coach trainees, documents progress, and supports qualification, refresher, and remedial training in accordance with agency procedures, safety expectations, and training standards.

Instruction and Training Delivery

• Deliver classroom, range, and on-road instruction for bus operator trainees and other assigned employees.
• Teach and coach trainees in pre-trip inspection, vehicle handling, defensive driving, range maneuvers, route operation, customer service, and other assigned bus operations topics.
• Support delivery of refresher, remedial, recertification, CDL-related, and other assigned training activities.
• Prepare training vehicles, training materials, and training areas as needed to support safe and effective instruction.

Trainee Coaching and Performance Evaluation

• Observe trainee performance in classroom, range, and in-service training environments and provide timely coaching, correction, and reinforcement.
• Assist in evaluating driving performance, rule compliance, safety behaviors, customer interaction, and readiness for progression through the training program.
• Document trainee progress, performance observations, and instructional activity in accordance with established procedures.
• Identify learning gaps, performance concerns, or safety issues and communicate them to the supervisor as appropriate.

Program Support and Training Standards

• Use approved lesson plans, checklists, evaluation tools, and training procedures consistently.
• Support training quality and consistency by providing feedback on curriculum, training materials, operational changes, and vehicle or equipment updates.
• Maintain current knowledge of agency operating procedures, service expectations, vehicle changes, and applicable state and federal requirements affecting training content.
• Help reinforce consistent training expectations, professionalism, and safe work practices.

Records, Communication, and Operational Support

• Maintain accurate, complete, and organized records related to training participation, progress, testing, and qualification activities.
• Communicate clearly with supervisors, trainees, and other internal stakeholders regarding training status, observations, and support needs.
• Provide quality internal and external customer service while working with trainees, operations personnel, and other stakeholders.
• Support the CATS safety culture by reporting safety concerns and issues through established agency processes.

Instructional Delivery – Ability to deliver bus operations training clearly and effectively in classroom, range, and on-road environments.

• Explains concepts and demonstrates techniques in a practical manner.
• Supports trainee understanding through clear instruction and repetition.
• Maintains consistency in training delivery.

Coaching and Trainee Development – Ability to observe trainee performance, provide constructive feedback, and support skill development in a safety-sensitive environment.

• Identifies strengths and learning gaps.
• Provides coaching that is timely, specific, and practical.
• Helps trainees build confidence and safe operating habits.

Bus Operations Knowledge and Application – Ability to apply bus operating knowledge, safety practices, and service expectations in the training environment.

• Reinforces safe driving, procedural compliance, and customer-service standards.
• Connects training content to real operating conditions.
• Maintains current knowledge of relevant operating practices and requirements.

Documentation and Reliability – Ability to maintain accurate records, complete assigned tasks consistently, and support dependable training administration.

• Keeps training records organized and complete.
• Follows procedures and documentation requirements carefully.
• Demonstrates reliability and follow-through in daily work.

Professional Communication and Customer Focus – Ability to communicate effectively with trainees, supervisors, and others while representing the agency professionally.

• Shares information clearly in both written and verbal form.
• Interacts respectfully and professionally with others.
• Supports a positive learning and service environment.

Knowledge of:

• Providing instruction to students in both a range and on the road environment.

Skill in:

• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.

Ability to:

• Coach and engage employees in the learning process.
• Maintain a safe environment for both students and instructors.
• Observe, document, and provide feedback to students as necessary to improve skills and knowledge.
• Work independently with limited supervision.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma and five (5) years of experience, Associate’s degree and three (3) years of experience, or Bachelor’s degree and one (1) year of experience.
• Relevant experience should include operating a commercial motor vehicle, transporting passengers, performing pre-trip inspections, transit operating experience, and training experience.
• Possession of a Class B CDL with passenger endorsement and no restriction.
• Possession of a clean driving record for the past three years at the time of hire and maintenance of a clean driving record for the duration of employment in accordance with applicable requirements.
• Ability to work varying shifts to accommodate training schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, special events, and inclement weather.

Preferred Qualifications

• Class A CDL with passenger endorsement and no restrictions.
• Experience delivering classroom and behind-the-wheel training in a transit or commercial driving environment.
• Experience documenting trainee progress and supporting qualification or refresher training processes.