Many public transportation operators are employed by commuter rail lines.
A public transportation operator drives a passenger vehicle used for the public or private transportation of passengers. It can be a bus, a light rail, a streetcar, or a streetcar. Work in this area requires training to learn how to operate vehicles and become familiar with the rules of traffic organization. In addition to handling passengers safely and efficiently, a public transportation operator handles fares, transfers, and other matters on board. They can also take steps to maintain order in case of problems.
At the start of the shift, the transit operator may inspect the vehicle to confirm that it is in good working order. Drivers leaving their shift can alert arriving employees to any issues they need to be aware of, such as traffic, blockages, or passenger issues. Once a public transport operator is sure that the vehicle is safe and operable, he can drive it along a defined route. Some drivers operate on a dispatch basis; the driver may, for example, drive a transit van to pick up people with disabilities when they ask for help.
As passengers board, the public transport operator may collect fares or request to see transfers and passes. The driver is responsible for ensuring people are seated safely and monitors passengers for signs of safety threats or issues such as theft and harassment on board. Public transportation operators can remind passengers to follow the rules or ask them to get off if they don’t behave properly. They also have the authority to call the police for help if the situation worsens.
Passengers can receive transfers when they provide cash tickets. They can also ask the public transport operator for information on routes and timetables. As public officials, public transport operators are expected to have information about tourist destinations and other important places in the area so that they can help passengers. Someone might ask which bus to take to get to the airport, for example, or might request information on which stop to use to access a specific company.
Private companies can use public transportation operators to operate buses and other vehicles that are not available for public use. They can be used for sightseeing tours, employee transportation, and activities such as transportation to and from airports. Some drivers act as tour guides to provide information to passengers, while others focus on driving, confirming that people should be in the vehicle and keeping conditions on board safe and pleasant.