A Driving Instructor is responsible for teaching students the rules of the road and the safe way to handle an automobile or motorcycle. This may involve both classroom and/or behind the wheel instruction. They are required to remain up to date with their regional and national traffic laws to insure proper curriculum and demonstration. Some inform their students on the process to obtain a valid driver's license in their region or nation.
position posting will be open through Friday, July 31, 2026:
MOTOR COACH OPERATOR / BUS DRIVER
Pay Rate:
$28.09/hour during 6-week training program, $33.05/hour once graduated Shifts are determined based on union seniority; evening and weekend work is likely Employees in this job classification are members of the Transport Workers Union Local 171 HIRING PROCESS July 8 - July 31, 2026 - Employment Applications Accepted Submit an Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority Employment Application Form (online or paper), completed in its entirety by the posted deadline date. Apply online at theride.org Paper applications must be received in the AAATA office at 2700 S. Industrial Highway, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 by 5:00pm on the posted deadline date. Paper applications are available at the same address. Faxed or emailed applications will not be accepted. Late and incomplete applications will not be accepted. After July 8, 2026 - Interviews Begin Interviews of qualified candidate will be conducted as applications are received. Qualified candidates selected for an interview will be notified via e-mail. Applicants who are not selected for an interview will receive notification they are no longer being considered. Tuesday, August 18, 2026 - Training Class Start Date
JOB DESCRIPTION ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Safely operates motor coaches, tests, and inspects equipment in accordance with pre-trip and in-service vehicle inspection procedures. Requests appropriate service and/or maintenance on AAATA vehicles, when necessary. Safely boards and de-boards passengers and provides necessary assistance to passengers with disabilities. Issues, receives, and punches transfers. Collects appropriate fares from passengers. Announces streets and time points as required by the ADA and as requested. Provides information and directions to passengers. Maintains proper radio communication with the Operations Control Center and responds to all instructions and related requests on a timely basis. Adjusts route and destination signs when necessary. Follows established procedures for handling violent and disruptive incidents, passenger illness, and other emergency situations. Returns vehicles to proper place in garage at end of run, places transmission selector in neutral or park, as is appropriate to vehicle type, and completes post-trip vehicle inspection procedures. Keeps all vehicle exits, entrances, and interior surfaces clear of refuse. Removes ice or slush from vehicle steps and ramps. Inspects bulletin boards and checks mailbox each day. Completes forms, as required (e.g. Accident/Incident Reports, Vehicle Condition Cards, special count forms, etc.). Reports all accidents immediately and submits a complete written report within twenty-four (24) hours and attends related court proceedings whenever necessary. Provides in-service training for new operators (e.g. vehicle maneuvering skills, wheelchair tie-down procedures, etc.). Operates assigned runs in accordance with published routes and schedules. Other duties as required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Knowledge of the operation of vehicles gained through actual hands-on experience with driving larger commercial vehicles. Extensive knowledge of traffic rules and regulations. Experience in driving in congested urbanized settings. Sufficient practical or academic education or training to successfully handle assigned duties. Experience in operating commercial passenger vehicles preferred.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Analytical and problem-solving ability. Memorizing and attending to detail. Reading and interpreting documents. Demonstrating good command of the English language. Skill to manage, lead, train, coordinate and motivate. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Perform simple and intermediate math calculations. Multi-tasking ability. Interacting with a wide variety of personalities. Working under frequent periods of stress. Organizing daily work activities to achieve goals. Ability to follow oral and written direction. Some mechanical aptitude.
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
Physically and mentally qualified to safely operate commercial passenger vehicle and perform all related essential job functions. Subject to applicable legal requirements, must meet the physical qualification standards specified in the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATION
Michigan Chauffeur's License and Commercial Driver License Class B with a "P" endorsement OR must possess a Commercial Learners Instruction Permit (CLIP) and have the ability to obtain a valid Michigan Chauffeur's License and Commercial Driver License Class B with a "P" endorsement within 6 weeks of employment.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Constant periods of hearing, near and far acuity, depth perception and accommodation. Long periods of sitting. Some periods of standing and walking, climbing steps, stooping, bending, and reaching. Ability to lift and carry 25 pounds.
ENVIRONMENTAL/ATMOSPHERIC CONDITIONS
Occasional exposure to noise, fumes, smoke, chemicals, fuels, cleaners, city pollution environment. Come work for TheRide! We are actively seeking Motor Coach Operators to provide direct transportation service to members of the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti area and help drive TheRide into the future! Apply today!
