Bus Operator

Position overview

The City of Regina is hiring a permanent Bus Operator to join its Transit Operations & Training branch within the Transit department. This is an onsite role in Regina, Saskatchewan, with 1 opening available. The position is part of Local 588 and is open to both internal and external candidates.

The role starts with a 6-week training period, during which pay is $19.11 per hour. The regular hourly wage for the position is $19.11 to $30.64 based on 2024 rates, and Transit Operator wages are noted as beginning at $23.16 per hour with automatic increases after the first, second, and third year of service.

About the role

This opportunity is for someone who wants to build a career in public transit with a municipal employer known for stability, benefits, and long-term employment. Bus Operators help residents travel to work, education, and essential services while providing safe, courteous, and dependable service.

In this position, you will operate transit vehicles under general supervision and support passengers with professional customer service. The work includes safe driving, communication with riders, adherence to transit procedures, and handling day-to-day operational needs on route.

Key responsibilities

• Drive transit buses safely, courteously, and reliably while following all operational rules and procedures.
• Communicate clearly with passengers by speaking, writing, and using two-way radio communication when needed.
• Help riders with route details, schedule questions, fare collection, and general trip support.
• Keep passenger safety front and center while people board, travel, and leave the bus.
• Carry out pre-trip checks, air brake tests, and other required safety inspections.
• Report delays, accidents, mechanical concerns, and customer issues promptly.
• Use patience and professionalism when dealing with challenging passengers or public interactions.
• Apply defensive driving practices and follow traffic laws at all times.
• Represent Regina Transit in a responsible, ethical, and customer-focused manner.
• Maintain strong punctuality and reliability to support consistent transit service.
• Perform other duties connected to safe and efficient transit operations.

Physical and working conditions

This job includes a number of physical demands that are constant during a normal shift. These include sitting for long periods while belted in the driver’s seat, bending and twisting to use controls, reaching overhead, turning the neck frequently for mirrors and blind spots, walking and squatting during inspections, medium-duty lifting when assisting customers with special needs, and repeated pushing, pulling, and gripping. The role may also require bending, stooping, crouching, and twisting to keep doorways clear of ice and snow.

Schedules vary across seven days a week and may include split shifts, early mornings, evenings, late nights, weekends, and holidays. Days off change based on seniority and operational needs in a seniority-based environment where scheduling, vacation, and absences depend on service requirements.

Qualifications

• Grade 12, GED, or an equivalent level of education.
• A suitable driving and work record, along with the ability to work effectively with the public.
• Proven initiative, good judgment, and strong bus-handling ability in different weather and road conditions.
• Consistent customer service skills and the ability to remain calm in difficult situations.
• Ability to work cooperatively with Transit Supervisors and other City departments to meet customer needs.
• Attention to detail and the discipline to follow procedures and instructions accurately.
• Knowledge of Regina’s street layout, landmarks, and points of interest.
• Strong map-reading ability.

Selection process and requirements

Applicants must ensure their resume includes current contact details, especially a valid email address and recent employment history, because early communication in the hiring process happens by email.

Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide proof of education, a recent Driver’s Abstract, and, if applicable, proof of entitlement to work in Canada such as citizenship or permanent resident documentation. Candidates who successfully move forward will complete a Job Suitability test by email, followed by an in-person interview for selected applicants.

Those invited to interview must already have passed the written portion of the Class 2A Learner’s Licence and be ready to show verification at the interview. SGI examination fees apply. Reference checks are completed before interviews. After a verbal offer, the successful candidate must provide a clear Criminal Record Check. The candidate will then begin the 6-week training program with the City of Regina Transit Department.

Testing may be used to assess knowledge, skills, and abilities. The City also requires satisfactory criminal record screening and proof of acquired education. Preference may be given to applicants who have the appropriate class of licence and strong customer service experience.

Equity, diversity, and accommodation

The City of Regina is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and barrier-free workplace. Candidates from Indigenous communities, racialized groups, 2SLGBTQIAP+ communities, persons with disabilities, and other equity-seeking groups are encouraged to apply. Accommodation is available during the recruitment process if required.

Land acknowledgement

The City acknowledges that it operates on Treaty 4 Territory and the traditional lands of the Cree, Saulteaux, Dakota, Nakota, Lakota, and Métis Nation. The organization recognizes and respects these Nations and their ancestors and is committed to building trust and genuine partnerships with Indigenous peoples.

Additional notes

Only applications submitted through the City’s online application system will be accepted. Due to the high volume of applications, candidates are encouraged to submit a resume that clearly highlights relevant strengths and experience. Applicants who are not moving forward in the process will also be notified by email, but individual status updates are not provided.

City of Regina emphasizes competitive compensation, wellness benefits, and growth opportunities through education support and in-house learning.