Bus Driver Trainee

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INITIAL REVIEW DATE (IRD)

UC Santa Cruz jobs are posted until filled. All application materials submitted by 11:59 pm on the IRD will be routed to the hiring team for consideration. NOTE: Applicants who miss the IRD are still encouraged to apply; their materials will still be forwarded for consideration if requested by the hiring team. Application materials cannot be accepted outside of the jobs portal. Applications cannot be edited on an applicant's behalf. For more information about the IRD and the applicant review process, view this link.

The IRD for this job is:08-11-2025

ABOUT UC SANTA CRUZ

UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the experience of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. It's known as an unconventional place where innovation and experimentation is part of the campus's DNA. That playful, bold spirit still thrives today, all on a campus renowned as among the most beautiful in the world.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) supports the University's mission by providing access to UC Santa Cruz, acting as fiscal stewards, and managing the sustainable planning, design, and operation of safe and equitable bicycle/pedestrian programs, transit services, parking, and other transportation-related needs. TAPS provides thousands of rides each day and keeps UCSC moving with a variety of transit services including Disability Van Service, Campus Shuttles, and Bus Reservations. Be a part of a motivated and dedicated unit that contributes to one of the most sustainable universities in the U.S.

More information can be found at: https://taps.ucsc.edu/about/careers.html

JOB SUMMARY

Under the supervision of the Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) Transit Operations Manager and Assistant Transit Managers, the trainee will prepare to obtain the CA Class B Commercial License with Passenger Endorsement and air brake certification to operate a variety of passenger vehicles in support of the campus transportation services. Current valid Class C Driver's License holders will be trained by University staff over approximately one month.

Upon successful completion of obtaining the Class B Commercial Driver's License with passenger endorsement and airbrake certification, Trainees will be eligible to apply for vacant Senior Auto Equipment Operator positions. As a condition of continuing employment, the Auto Equipment Operator must take and pass all required DMV testing for Class B licensing. In addition to training, this position operates vans to safely transport and provide excellent customer service to campus affiliates, staff, faculty, and students who are required to travel on campus and between campus sites to fulfill their work and school-related obligations.

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

Budgeted Salary: $25/hour.
Under California law, the University of California, Santa Cruz is required to post a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. The salary shown above is the budgeted amount the University reasonably expects to pay and the salary extended should not exceed this posted amount.

Benefits Level Eligibility: Core benefits

Schedule Information:

• Part-time, Fixed
• Percentage of Time: 80%, 32 Hours per Week
• Days of the Week: Mon-Sun, TBD
• Shift Includes: Day, Evening, Night, Weekend

Employee Classification: Limited appointment

Job End Date: 6 months from the date of hire

Work Location: UC Santa Cruz Main Campus

Union Representation: SX, Service Unit

Job Code Classification: AUTO EQUIP OPR (008487)

Travel: Never or Rarely

JOB DUTIES

45% - Obtain CA Class B License with passenger endorsement

Class B Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP):

1. Download and complete a Form (DL 939) - the 10 year history driving record check.
2. Visit the nearest CA DMV and pick up form (DL 44C) (not available online).
3. Fill out form DL 44C and take and pass a vision exam.
4. Download a medical examination report (DL 51), take it to an authorized medical examiner, complete the medical examiner, and have the examiner fill out the form and place it in a sealed envelope.
5. Return to the CA DMV with completed forms (DL 44C, DL 939 and DL 51, along with the results of your vision exam. Have your thumbprint taken at the CA DMV and present your social security card or other proof of your social security number, verify your birthday and legal presence in the United States by presenting identification to the CA DMV.
6. Take and pass a written road test. You will have three (3) attempts to pass each of the required knowledge tests. If you fail the same test three (3) times, your application is no longer valid and you need to reapply.
7. After the issuance of the Class B Commercial Driver's Permit, you can drive Class B vehicles if a licensed Class B driver is present in the vehicle with you.
8. The CLP is valid for a maximum of 180 days from the date issued. It can be renewed for an additional 180 days if the expiration date is not more than one (1) year from the initial application date.
9. Complete and pass the Transportation (DOT) Drug and Alcohol Testing Program before they are permitted to drive University vehicles. Employees will then be placed in the random testing pool list for drug and alcohol testing.

Class B Commercial Driving Practice:

1. Practice driving the type of Class B vehicles on campus in preparation for the road test.

Class B Commercial Skills Test:

After holding a commercial learner's permit (CLP) for fourteen (14) days, you can apply to take the skills test.

1. Call the local CA DMV and schedule an appointment for a road test.
   
2. Bring in the UCSC vehicle (with a UCSC licensed Class B driver present), along with the Class B permit and photo identification. The skills test includes a vehicle inspection, basic control skills test, and a road test. If you fail any part of the skills test, all other testing is postponed. You have three (3) tries to pass the skills test. You must pass this within three (3) tries and/or within 180 days from the date of issuance of your Commercial Learner's Permit.
3. If you pass the road test, you will be issued a temporary 60-day license that you can use until the photo license is mailed to you.

Class B Passenger Endorsement Certification:
Drivers who qualify to operate a passenger transportation vehicle are subject to : vehicle code 23152d VC, the commercial DUI law, and vehicle code 21702 VC, the law regulating driving hours for bus drivers.

1. Complete a medical exam and have the physician complete DMV Form 546A, the Physician's Health Report. This screening must identify that you do not have any conditions that would adversely affect your ability to safely drive a passenger vehicle.
2. Fill out CA-DMV form (DL44).
3. Pass the Class B passenger endorsement written test.
4. Pass the driver's skill test and road test in a passenger vehicle.

Air Brake Endorsement Certification:

1. Pass the air brakes test.
2. Pass the driver's skill test and road test in an airbrake vehicle.

CA-DMV charges and medical exams charges (provided by Occupational Health Services) will be provided at no charge to the applicant for initial licenses. Continued payments to retain a current license/medical certification upon expiration will be paid by the employee.

45% - Operation of Vehicles and Transporting of Passengers

• With a licensed Class B driver is present in the vehicle with you, drive/operate a 20 - 41+ passenger shuttle bus, 7-15 passenger van, and a 5 passenger automobile, as assigned.
• Operate vehicles in a safe manner, observing traffic regulations and maintaining assigned routes, headways and schedules while making passenger pick ups and drop offs at designated locations on campus.
• Maintain time points for all routes and schedules, running on time, traffic conditions permitting.
• Maintain accurate driver logs, passenger counts, ride schedule and other records, as assigned and as required for compliance with all UC, State, & Federal Agencies.
• Communicate via two-way radio system following the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations governing radio frequency use.
• Operate hydraulic wheelchair lifts, ramps and securing systems on applicable shuttle buses and vans.
• Maintain a cooperative working relationship by exercising diplomacy, remaining calm under stressful situations.
• Interact in a professional and courteous manner with the campus community and the public.
• Comply with the Department of Transportation (DOT) Title VI regulation, 49 CFR Part 21.9, and including Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) Circular 4702.1A regarding nondiscrimination as required.

5% - Disability Van Service (DVS) Paratransit Support

• Drive/operate any vehicle permissible with a valid Basic Class C License.
• Operate vehicles and towed trailers in a safe manner, observing traffic regulations and maintaining assigned routes, headways and schedules while making passenger pick ups and drop offs at designated locations on campus.
• Maintain time points for all routes and schedules, running on time, traffic conditions permitting.
• Maintain accurate driver logs, passenger counts, ride schedule and other records, as assigned and as required for compliance with all UC, State, & Federal Agencies.
• Communicate via two-way radio system following the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations governing radio frequency use.
• Operate wheelchair ramps and securing systems on applicable vehicles.
• Verbally assist passengers with disabilities in and out of vehicles and or passengers with bicycles in a helpful and courteous manner.
• Communicate Disability Van Service (DVS) Paratransit service policies and procedures to customers.
• Operate the reservation system and driver apps for applicable services.
• Facilitate clear and positive communications between department members, other public safety entities, and the community.
• Maintain a cooperative working relationship by exercising diplomacy, remaining calm under stressful situations.
• Interact in a professional and courteous manner with the campus community and the public.
• Comply with the Department of Transportation (DOT) Title VI regulation, 49 CFR Part 21.9, and including Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) Circular 4702.1A regarding nondiscrimination as required.
  

5% - UCSC Policies and Safety Procedures

• Learn to complete a vehicle inspection prior to leaving for the assigned route. Record any discrepancies on the vehicle check out sheet and notify the supervisor regarding any minor problems or safety hazards.
• Maintain/coordinate interior and/or exterior cleanliness of vehicle, including but not limited to windshield, windows and mirrors assigned for shift as needed.
• Learn to fuel vehicles, following applicable safety procedures.
• Learn to complete a post-trip checklist and secure vehicle.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Knowledge of driving laws as specified in the California Vehicle Code.
• Skill in the safe operation of various University passenger vehicles to provide transportation as directed.
• Ability to maintain accurate, legible logs and records.
• Skill in establishing/maintaining tactful relationships with supervisors, passengers, co-workers.
• Ability to participate in safety training/certification programs.
• Ability to use two-way radio operations and/or cellular phone for communication purposes.
• Ability to strictly adhere to all posted speed limits, traffic laws, safety requirements and University parking requirements.
• Ability to learn and understand the campus routes and bus stop locations.
• Ability to use mapping tools such as Google Maps, Apple Maps, and various transportation and dispatch applications and softwares.
• Ability to interact in a professional, friendly, courteous manner with the public, interacting with persons of various backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, with different personalities under diverse situations.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills sufficient to maintain a cooperative working relationship with co-workers.
• Ability to work independently and following through on assignments with minimal direction.
• Ability to prioritize assignments and organize work flows to meet deadlines, working with changes in workloads, assignments, customer service needs and interruptions, remaining calm under stressful situations.
• Ability to work near and around support and service animals in accordance with the UC Santa Cruz Service/Support Animal Policy.
• Ability to exercise discretion in handling confidential materials in relation to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPPA).
• Ability to speak in a clear concise manner sufficient to obtain needed information, explain policies and procedures, and provide instructions and directions to passengers politely, clearly and effectively.
• Ability to read, write, follow oral or written instructions and perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Ability to adhere to posted routes and schedules within designated time standards for each route.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Professional driving experience.
• General knowledge of State, Federal and University policies and procedures pertaining to vehicle codes, accessibility requirements and vehicle safety.
• General knowledge of transit policies and procedures pertaining to the institution of higher education.
• Knowledge of Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations on communication by two-way radio.
• Knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPPA) standards.
  

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Selected candidate will be required to pass a pre-employment criminal history background check.
• Selected candidate must pass the employment misconduct disclosure process.
• Must possess a valid license to drive in the state of California and participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) pull notice program.
• Must possess, or obtain within 6 months of hire, a valid California Class B license to drive and participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) pull notice program.
• Interviewees will be required to provide a current DMV record.
• Must possess a valid Class C Driver's License (or Class A or B without Passenger Endorsement) to operate vehicles in the State of California, with a clean driving record and ability to be insured by the University.
• Proof of the driving record will be required at the time of interview.
• Participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) pull notice system. Continued employment is contingent upon proof of a satisfactory driving record.
• Selected candidate(s) must be 21 years of age, or turning 21 years of age at the time of obtaining a Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
• Must pass a vision exam provided by the CA DMV; vision must be at least 20/40 in each eye in order to qualify for a California B Commercial Driver's License.
• Selected candidates must pass the written test for the CA Class B Commercial skills test within three (3) attempts. If you fail the same test three (3) times, your application is no longer valid with the DMV and you will be released from employment. You must pass this within three (3) tries and/or within 180 days from the date of issuance of your Commercial Learner's Permit.
• Selected candidate(s) must possess a current DMV Medical Certificate and re-certify every 2 years which requires an approved medical certification to drive in the United States and in the State of California.
• In accordance with the Department of Transportation (DOT) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test and conform and pass the on-going drug and alcohol testing requirements. Continued employment is contingent upon participation in a Drug and Alcohol Testing Program and conform and satisfactorily pass then-going drug and alcohol testing requirements.
• The selected candidate will be required to work all scheduled hours on-site.
• Ability to work a variable schedule including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as directed.
• Ability to occasionally work overtime with little or no advance notice.
• Ability to work overtime including evenings, nights, weekends and holidays to meet operational needs, and work an alternate work schedule shift as required.
• Clery Act: This position has been identified as a Campus Security Authority (CSA); required to report crimes, incidents, and disciplinary referral statistics as required by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (20 USC * 1092(f)).
• Selected candidate will be required to complete training within established time frames as directed including UC compliance training.
• The University of California has implemented a Vaccination Policy covering all employees. Employees, including new hires, are required to comply with any applicable policies relating to the University of California vaccine program.
• Per the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), this position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter. The selected candidate will be required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect as defined by CANRA and will be required to sign a Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse prior to commencing employment. CANRA Penal Codes, and related definitions, requirements, and responsibilities may be obtained here.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

SAFETY STATEMENT

All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY

EEO/AA

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.

It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.