Hood River County Transportation District, which does business as Columbia Area Transit (CAT), provides Fixed Route, Deviated Fixed Route, and Dial-A-Ride public transportation services within Hood River County and between the Columbia River Gorge and Portland communities. This is a small team-oriented transit agency where team members collaborate and work cohesively to grow operations and increase ridership.

CAT drivers provide safe, reliable, courteous, and efficient bus transportation for people in the CAT service area, and are committed to safety through consistent and professional work.  Safety is a fundamental value that guides all aspects of our work!

Reports to: Field Supervisors and Transit Operations Manager

Qualifications

1. A minimum of a High School Diploma (G.E.D.) or equivalent is required.
2. Possess or ability to obtain a Class C or B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with applicable endorsements, including any necessary state certifications. CDL’s are not required for the position but are preferred. CAT will provide training for the CDL exam. Candidates that have an existing CDL will be given preference (Class B preferred).
3. A safe driving record meeting the established criteria is required:
   1. Traffic Violations/Accidents: Serious violations, that appear on the driving record, will disqualify an applicant from consideration for a period of ten (10) years. Less serious violations will disqualify an applicant from consideration if they occurred in the last three (3) years.
   2. Suspensions: A suspended driver’s license for longer than three months (90 days) in the past three (3) years will disqualify an applicant from consideration.
4. Ability to demonstrate/develop strong customer service/interpersonal skills to provide positive interactions with customers, problem-solving and customer assistance.
5. Ability to work with the public in a variety of situations while performing several tasks simultaneously.
6. Ability to use independent judgment and make decisions without direct supervision.
7. Ability to develop and maintain defensive driving skills and operate a transit bus safely and efficiently, as demonstrated during the training period.
8. Ability to read, write, and communicate in English.
9. Willingness and ability to work various hours, including early morning and late night shifts; split shifts; weekends and holidays; and split days off.
10. Ability to report to work regularly and on time.
11. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, management, and the general public, including those from culturally diverse backgrounds, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and/or other vulnerable populations.
12. Ability to pass the required post-offer job-related physical and pre-employment drug screen for this position.
13. Spanish speaking is preferred but not required.