About Citrus Connection

Community Relations/Customer Service Rep

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Customer Service Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Department:  External Affairs

SUMMARY: This position provides front line assistance to clients, customers and the general public. It also involves work with considerable contact with the public, by telephone, in person and via email. The physical location of this position will be based on a vacancy in one of three Citrus Connection Customer Service locations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Provides customer service to both internal and external customers, clients, and the general public in the form of providing transit information such as services, routes, schedules, fares, and District rules/regulations.
2. Upon request, provides best possible routes and schedules for customers; answer inquiries and provide information to walk-in customers.
3. Computes and quotes rates for trips using published rate tables.
4. Collects money, makes change and issues receipts.
5. Deals with difficult customers in a positive manner in phone, in person and via email.
6. Distribute written materials including mail and other related items.
7. Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONIBILITIES: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

High school degree or G.E.D.; one (1) year of directly related experience desired in customer services, sales, reception, and/or general clerical duties. An equivalent combination of education and experience that is determined to be directly related to the specific requirements may be substituted.

Bi-lingual (Spanish) a plus

OTHER CERTIFICATES/LICENSES:

Must have valid Florida driver’s license.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Knowledge of local geographic areas.
  • Ability to speak effectively before small and large groups and respond to questions.
  • Ability to maintain a level of professionalism and confidentiality.
  • Ability to express ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to type thirty-five (35) words per minute (WPM) with minimal errors; data entry skills required.
  • Ability to file documents and records accurately.
  • Ability to operate a multi-line phone system; knowledge of telephone procedures and etiquette.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and conflict resolution skills.
  • PC literate, basic skills in Microsoft Office Suite and Internet research.
  • Must be a self-starter; able to work independently.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with management, internal staff and external vendors.
  • Ability to establish effective working relationships with co-workers, various County and City employees, customers, and the general public.
  • Uses sound, independent judgment in daily work activities and exercises discretion; has strong ethical standards.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT and PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work environment and physical demands characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
This job is usually performed in a normal office environment. Must be physically able to lift and carry 20-25 lbs. infrequently; 50 lbs. occasionally.

Route Reservationist

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Call Center Supervisor

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Department:  Regional Mobility Call Center

SUMMARY: This position requires positive customer service skills while dealing with consistent phone calls, scheduling, giving out route information, performing various clerical duties such as emailing, faxing, copying, filing and compiling research. Successful employees in the call center demonstrate high standards of excellence, hard work/dedication/professionalism, respect, adaptability, dependability, patience, and teamwork.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Responsible for negotiating and scheduling trip request from Para Transit passengers.
2. Responsible for verifying client eligibility via Trapeze
3. Assuring trips are scheduled according to approved funding.
4. Responsible for providing Fixed Route information to Fixed Route Passengers. Using CCbusinfo, and AVAIL.
5. Communicates client changes to Dispatch for follow-up via TEAMS
6. Respond to incoming calls and routing to other departments for follow-up.
7. Verify address to determine service availability prior to sending applications.
8. Communication with Intake specialist regarding passenger transportation opportunity.
9. Responds to complex inquiries from clients in order to provide or clarify information on company and departmental services, procedures and policies.
10. Responsible for following District, Local, State, and Federal rules, policies, and procedures for public transit.
11. Communicate any escalated service issues to Call Center staff, Operations, and Safety.
12. Communicate to management personnel any issues that impede the efficient operation of the call center.
13. Forecasts client’s needs and proactively works to address questions, issues, and concerns.
14. Participate in emergency management for special needs shelter evacuations.
15. Attend department/district meetings and trainings.
16. Participates in community outreach events, workshops, and presentations.
17. Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

High school diploma or G.E.D. required; one (1) year of customer service, or related duties. Computer skills, specifically Microsoft Office required. An equivalent combination of education and experience that is determined to be directly related to the specific requirements may be substituted. Trapeze experience preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Must be able to read, understand, and communicate in English.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• PC literate, basic skills in Microsoft Office Suite, and Internet Research
• Ability to do basic math.
• Must be a self-starter; able to work independently.
• Consistent in attendance and stable work history.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with management, internal staff and external vendors.
• Ability to establish effective working

PREFERRED BUT NOT REQUIRED:

Bilingual

WORKING ENVIRONMENT and PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work environment and physical demands characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
Must be able to work in an environment that may be crowded or noisy, where work can be repetitive or stressful, with little time between calls.
Employee will be sitting for long periods of time, operating a computer, and phone, using repetitive movement requiring manual dexterity and fine motor skills. Employee is frequently required to talk, walk and sit. Employee may regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and infrequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

 

 

Fixed Route Bus Operator

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Director of Revenue Services

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Department:  Revenue Services

SUMMARY: This position is responsible for providing service to bus riders by safe, reliable, and expert transportation to the community.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  1. Operates a bus for the safe transportation of the
  2. Responsible for following all District rules, policies and
  3. Responsible for pre and post trip activities for the bus and reporting of any issues related to
  4. Responsible for reporting accidents and/or incidents and following District procedures in accordance with the accident reporting
  5. Responsible for dealing with passengers and the public with courtesy and
  6. Assists impaired passengers in accordance with the American with Disabilities
  7. Loads and secures up to two (2) wheelchair
  8. Assists passengers with grocery packages upon request
  9. Assists Paratransit passengers at pick-up and drop-off points.
  10. Provides customer service as defined in District Standard Operating
  11. Responsible for handling emergency situations
  12. Monitors cleanliness of bus
  13. Assists with training of new
  14. Checks bus and reports lost or left behind items; communicates and reports to appropriate
  15. Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Knowledge of the geography of the county and bus routes.
  • Skill in safely operating a bus or other vehicle in a variety of weather and traffic. Ability to work under pressure; ability to multi-task.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and strong conflict resolution skills. Must be a self-starter; able to work independently.
  • Ability to establish effective working relationships with co-workers, various County and City employees, customers, and the general public.
  •    Uses sound, independent judgment in daily work activities and exercises discretion; has strong ethical standards.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

High school diploma or G.E.D. required; two to four years’ customer service experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience that is determined to be directly related to the specific requirements may be substituted.

LICENSES:

Must have valid CDL Class “B” license with (P) Passenger Endorsement and Airbrakes PERMITS upon hire.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The work environment and physical demands characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
This job is performed in all weather conditions.
It may include the need to be able to lift up to 100 lbs. infrequently.

Paratransit Bus Operator Trainee

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Director of Revenue Services

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Department:  Revenue Services

SUMMARY: This position is a limited duration training position in which the employee is taught the knowledge and skills necessary to become a Paratransit bus operator. After successful completion of the training, the employee will know how to transport, safely and expediently, passengers on District buses.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  1. Learns to be responsible for the safe transportation of passengers.
  2. Learns to and aids in the loading and unloading process of passengers needing assistance in boarding.
  3. Learns how to and performs daily pre and post-trip inspections of the bus in accordance with applicableregulations and District guidelines.
  4. Learns how to complete daily post-trip inspections, including checking the condition of the bus.
  5. Learns how to maintain the cleanliness of the bus interiors.
  6. Learns how to communicate routine, urgent and emergency situations.
  7. Attends all meetings and training sessions including all in service and driver meetings, first aid and CPRclasses that are required by the District.
  8. Responsible for learning all District rules, policies and procedures.
  9. Learns how to verify route times to maintain the accuracy of the schedulers’ assignments.
  10. Learns how to provide information to the scheduler and dispatcher for updating maps and routes.
  11. Learns how to report accidents and/or incidents and follow District procedures in accordance with theaccident reporting procedure.
  12. Learns how to deal with passengers and the public with courtesy and patience.
  13. Learns how to assist impaired passengers in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act.
  14. Learns how to assist Paratransit passengers at pick-up and drop-off points.
  15. Learns how to deal with passengers who may have a wide range of mental acuity.
  16. Assists impaired passengers in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act.
  17. Learns how to load and secure up to five (5) wheelchair scooters.
  18. Learns how to deal with emergency situations.
  19. Learns how to perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Ability to work under pressure; ability to multi-task.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to utilize mobile data terminals.
  • Ability to maintain required records.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and strong conflict resolution skills.
  • Must be a self-starter.
  • Ability to establish effective working relationships with co-workers, various County and City employees, customers, and the general public.
  • Uses sound, independent judgment in daily work activities and exercises discretion; has strong ethical standards.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

High school diploma or G.E.D. required; two to four years’ customer service experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience that is determined to be directly related to the specific requirements may be substituted.

LICENSES:

Must have valid CDL Class “B” permit with (P) Passenger Endorsement and Airbrakes upon hire. Must be able to obtain license within sixty (60) days of hire.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The work environment and physical demands characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
This job is performed in all weather conditions.
It may include the need to be able to lift up to 100 lbs. infrequently.

Fleet Maintenance Apprentice Technician

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Shop Supervisor

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Department:  Fleet Maintenance

SUMMARY: Under general supervision, performs semi-skilled work in servicing, lubricating, repairing and maintaining vehicles for a public transit system. This position is classified as safety sensitive.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Responsible for a highly standardized maintenance program which includes tire repair, lubrication and general garage duties.
  • Maintains routine records of activities performed and materials used.
  • Fuels transit vehicles and checks water, oil, battery and tires; adds water, oil and air if needed; drains air tanks.
  • Reports damage, defects or malfunctioning parts to proper authority.
  • Changes tires in the garage and, when necessary, on the road.
  • Washes engines, bus units and bus interiors and exteriors as necessary.
  • Cleans garage and parking areas and performs other related cleaning, sweeping, mopping or dusting duties.
  • Operates service truck and fork lift.
  • Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Knowledge of the location, nomenclature, and function of the less complex parts of transit equipment.
  • Knowledge of the types, grades, and uses of standard diesel lubricants.
  • Knowledge of the materials, methods and equipment typically used in diesel maintenance work.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records of work performed and materials used.
  • Must be able to understand, read and communicate in English.
  • PC literate, basic skills in Microsoft Office Suite and Internet research. Ability to do basic math. Must be a self-starter; able to work independently.
  • Ability to establish effective working relationships with co-workers, various County and City employees, customers, and the general public.
  • Uses sound, independent judgment in daily work activities and exercises discretion; has strong ethical standards.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

High School diploma or G.E.D. required; one (1) year of experience servicing heavy duty diesel equipment. An equivalent combination of education and experience that is determined to be directly related to the specific requirements may be substituted. Must be able to provide an assortment of general hand tools and basic tool box.

LICENSES:

Must possess a CDL/Class B license or provide proof of passing the General Knowledge Test for the CDL. Must be able to obtain a CDL with P (passenger) endorsement license and air brakes testing within 30 days of employment. Must be maintained in good standing while employed with the District.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The work environment and physical demands characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

This job is sometimes performed in essentially an outdoor environment, subject to extremes of both hot and cold weather and wet conditions. Employee must be able to work outside on a daily basis. This position is exposed to various chemical and gas/diesel fumes on a daily basis.

Must be physically able to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 100 lbs. on a daily basis.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Citrus Connection is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (“EOE”) and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, gender, national origin, or veteran status in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.

We believe that our employees are our most valuable asset. As a member of the Citrus Connection Team, you’ll find an environment that celebrates diversity and welcomes the open exchange of ideas and individual perspectives. We are proud to offer an attractive salary along with a generous benefits package designed to support you while addressing work/life balance issues.

Thank you for your interest in Citrus Connection.


DRUG FREE WORKPLACE

The Citrus Connection is a Drug Free Workplace (“DFWP) and is committed to providing a safe, efficient, and productive work environment for all employees, to help ensure a safe and healthful working environment.


OFFICIAL APPLICATION

To be considered for employment, the employment application must be completed in its entirety, signed in the application Acknowledgement section, and the position for which you are applying, specified.

Please review our current job openings. If your qualifications match the minimum requirements of any of our openings, please click the Application Request Link or download an the Citrus Connection Employment Application. Once you complete the application, you may also print it, email it to Recruiting@ridecitrus.com or drop it off at our location at: 1212 George Jenkins Blvd ~ Lakeland, FL 33815.

Applications are screened by the Human Resources Department. Applicants that meet the minimum requirements will be forwarded to the Hiring Manager for review and consideration for interviews. The Hiring Manager will only contact the most qualified applicants.

Equal Employment Opportunity Affirmative Action Plan

EEOC Protected Class Title VII Brochure

FTA Drug and Alcohol Policy

DOT Substance Abuse Policy

CDL Manual

BENEFITS

  • Paid Vacation Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Company-Paid Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance for Employees
  • Voluntary Insurance (AFLAC)
  • Health & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Uniforms for select personnel

HOLIDAYS

Citrus Connection recognizes the following paid holidays for full-time time regular employees

  • New Year’s Day
  • Martin Luther King Day
  • Presidents'
  • Memorial Day
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day
  • Columbus Day
  • Veteran’s Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Citrus Connection operates in accordance with Title VII. Click here for more information.

The District is an Equal Opportunity Employer (“EOE”) and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, gender, pregnancy, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, veteran status or any other legally protected category in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Employment opportunities include all employment practices, including recruitment, selection, promotions, terminations, inter-departmental transfers, layoffs, compensation, training, benefits, and other terms and conditions of employment. No person shall be excluded from participating in, denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination in employment under any project, program or activity receiving federal financial assistance from the federal transit laws.

The overall goal of the District is to have, in its employ, individuals within its workforce that reflect each segment of the various demographical backgrounds that make up the Lakeland urban area. This goal is extended to having members of the various ethnic backgrounds in various positions, such as supervisory, professional, and clerical and service delivery positions.

As part of the EEO (“Equal Employment Opportunity”) Program, the District will make reasonable accommodations for disabled applicants and current employees and strongly prohibits discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation in violation of law. We are committed to providing a fair and respectful work environment that is free from unlawful discrimination.

It is important to the District that each employee who joins our team be qualified to perform job duties set forth in the job description. All applicants are recruited and selected based on transferable skills, knowledge, previous work experience, and the minimum educational level for the specific position that is required for successful job performance. We are proud to offer equal employment opportunities, and we embrace the diversity that makes up our family of employees.

The District is a government agency, operating under the Federal Transit Administration and Florida Department of Transportation’s employment rules, laws, guidelines, policies, and regulations. Every safety-sensitive applicant’s background will be carefully reviewed to ensure the safety of all workers and the general public. Each applicant applying for a safety-sensitive position is required to complete and successfully pass a pre-employment drug test and Department of Transportation (“DOT”) Physical. All non safety-sensitive applicants will be required to pass a pre-employment drug test.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Steven Schaible, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
EEO & Human Resources Director
Citrus Connection
1212 George Jenkins Blvd.,
Lakeland, FL 33815
Phone: (863) 327-1308
E-mail: sschaible@ridecitrus.com

Federal Transit Administration
230 Peachtree St. N.W., Suite 800,
Atlanta, GA 30303
Attention: Region IV Civil Rights Officer
Phone: (404) 865-5620