Transit Operations Specialist

Transit Operations Specialist

Location: Grand Rapids, MN
Work Environment: In-Person
Job Type: Part-Time Contract
Pay: $23.00 per hour
Schedule: Up to 30 hours/week; shifts between 10 AM and 9 PM
Sign-On Bonus: $500

Job Overview

The PLUM Catalyst to hire a Transit Operations Specialist / Vehicle Operator for the goMARTI initiative in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. This role supports an innovative self-driving public transportation service, providing free, on-demand rides along the goMARTI route and helping address rural transportation needs.

The ideal candidate is an experienced, safety-conscious driver who is organized, reliable, detail-oriented, customer-focused, and comfortable working with emerging vehicle and accessibility technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and support vehicles equipped with advanced autonomous vehicle, accessibility, and transportation technologies.
• Provide safe, reliable, and courteous on-demand public transportation to passengers in Grand Rapids and surrounding communities, including Cohasset, Deer River, and Ball Club.
• Interact professionally with passengers and the operations team to deliver a positive customer experience.
• Assist passengers with mobility needs, including individuals using wheelchairs and accessibility ramps.
• Conduct daily vehicle safety inspections and report maintenance or operational concerns.
• Maintain clean, safe, and presentable vehicle interiors and exteriors.
• Follow all traffic laws, transportation procedures, safety protocols, and operational guidelines.
• Document daily activities, passenger interactions, vehicle conditions, and operational observations.
• Provide feedback and recommendations to improve vehicle comfort, cleanliness, accessibility, aesthetics, and passenger experience.
• Remain calm and effective when handling unexpected or demanding situations.
• Perform other transportation and operations duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Minimum 3 years of driving experience with an excellent driving record.
• Safe and responsible driving habits with strong knowledge of traffic and safety regulations.
• Comfortable operating vehicles equipped with advanced technology and accessibility systems.
• Ability to routinely lift and move up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to assist passengers with disabilities, including pushing wheelchairs up ramps and into vehicles.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to follow structured processes and standard operating procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and a systematic, process-driven approach.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with an operations team.
• Comfortable working flexible part-time shifts between 10 AM and 9 PM.
• Weekend availability is preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in public transportation, transit operations, shuttle driving, rideshare, delivery driving, passenger transportation, or fleet operations.
• Experience working with autonomous vehicles, self-driving technology, electric vehicles, accessibility technology, or advanced vehicle systems.
• Background in electronics, mechanical systems, automotive technology, or computer systems.
• Experience working with customers or passengers in a transportation or service environment.