Becoming a SamTrans bus driver isn’t just good for you, but also for riders, the transit agency says.
With a bus operator shortage forcing a reduction in services, SamTrans has launched a Drive With Us recruitment campaign that in part offers paid training for up to 10 weeks.
The campaign, accessed here, features information on minimum requirements, training dates, bus operator duties, an upcoming class schedule, and the benefits of becoming a bus operator at SamTrans.
On Jan. 19, SamTrans, which has 312 operators and needs to fill 337 positions, suspended EC Rapid service due to the driver shortage. and cancelled other runs.
The ECR Rapid launched in June 2018 to provide faster service on El Camino Real and had been carrying almost 500 riders per day, the transit agency said. However, the route’s design needed multiple operators at the ready, straining the staffing levels.
SamTrans adjusts its scheduling and service operations three times a year to take into account changing traffic impacts, travel patterns and bus operator availability. Additional operators will presumably lead to more service.
As part of the Drive With Us campaign, SamTrans is also creating a employee referral program and attending recruitment events.
Photo credit: SamTrans
