Does Metro Transit require drug testing for transit operators? All applicants for positions defined as “safety sensitive” are required to pass a drug test prior to employment and, subsequent to commencement of employment, will be subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and followup drug testing.

Do transit operators belong to a union? Transit operators are represented by Local 587 of the Amalgamated Transit Union.

How many hours can I expect to work? You are guaranteed a minimum of two hours and 30 minutes per day during morning or afternoon commute hours. These shifts fall between 4:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Some routes are longer than two hours and 30 minutes. You may request additional hours if you sign up to drive for vacationing, sick, or unavailable drivers.

Where do I send my application? Metro Transit accepts applications for part-time transit operator positions only at the time of testing. Bring your completed safety-sensitive application and data sheet with you to the test. The test is a passenger-relations video test and a short written test, and applicants must pass the tests to be considered further. Call 206‑684‑1024 to make a reservation for the next testing and orientation.

Do I need to have a commercial driver’s license, or CDL, to apply? Metro Transit does not require applicants to have a CDL to be hired for this position, but candidates must get a CDL permit with airbrake and passenger endorsements before entering a training class and starting the training process. Preparation for the permit and endorsement tests can be done by studying Chapters One through Five of the Washington State Commercial Driver’s Guide.

What kinds of past driving violations will disqualify me from being considered? Applicants will be required, before being hired, to provide a current, complete five-year driving record abstract from the state Department of Licensing. Transit Operators must have a responsible and safe driving record. Abstracts will be reviewed for evidence of a safe and responsible driving record. The severity, recency, and number of violations will be reviewed. Any of the following traffic code violations within the last five years will automatically disqualify you from further consideration:

• A suspended license for moving violations
• Reckless or negligent driving
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• A hit-and-run incident
• Vehicular homicide or vehicular assault
• More than one “at fault” accident
• An open-container violation

Finalists will undergo an evaluation of criminal history records and convictions or releases from prison. Records are evaluated based on severity, recency, and possible threat to the public and/or employees and property of Metro. A conviction will not necessarily bar you from employment consideration.

How do I get my driving record from another state? Metro staff will acquire your five-year driving record from another state.

Do I need to have professional driving experience? No, work experience that demonstrates good performance, reliability, and good communication within the last 10 years will be considered.

What if I am self-employed? If you are self-employed, you will be required to submit specific tax-related information for the years you were self-employed. We will also request that you provide us with the names and phone numbers of three client references for each business you have owned.

How soon can I start? (or, I got an offer—now what?) As soon as we have acceptable reference information from your previous employers, we will call you with a conditional offer of employment. You must be able to obtain a CDL Learner’s Permit with Air Brake and Passenger endorsements; successfully pass a DOT physical, work test, and drug screen; and provide a complete five-year driver’s abstract. The reference check process usually takes up to two weeks, and depending on how quickly you can fulfill the requirements of the conditional offer, you could start driving part-time for Metro within a month of applying for the job!