About Us

Employment Opportunities

Dependable and Accessible Transportation for Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Ft. Meade, Frostproof and Surrounding Areas

Fixed Route Bus Operator

Fleet Maintenance Technician

Paratransit Bus Operator

Part-Time Shuttle Bus Operator

Service Island Supervisor

Squeeze Shuttle Operator (Part-Time)

Fixed Route Bus Operator

Position Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Director of Fixed Route Service
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Department: Operations

Pay: $20.25/Hour

SUMMARY:

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

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Operates a bus for the safe transportation of the public.
Responsible for following all District rules, policies and procedures.
Responsible for pre and post trip activities for the bus and reporting of any issues related to same.
Responsible for reporting accidents and/or incidents and following District procedures in accordance with the accident reporting procedure.
Responsible for dealing with passengers and the public with courtesy and patience.
Assists impaired passengers in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act.
Loads and secures up to two (2) wheelchair scooters.
Assists passengers with grocery packages upon request
Assists Paratransit passengers at pick-up and drop-off points.
Provides customer service as defined in District Standard Operating Procedures.
Responsible for handling emergency situations appropriately.
Monitors cleanliness of bus interior.
Assists with training of new operators.
Checks bus and reports lost or left behind items; communicates and reports to appropriate personnel.
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

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.

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Fleet Maintenance Technician

Job Title: Technician
Department: Maintenance
Reports To: Fleet Manager
FLSA Status: Non-exempt/Full Time

SUMMARY:

Under general supervision, performs skilled work in servicing, lubricating, repairing and maintaining heavy duty diesel and gasoline vehicles for a public transit system. This position is classified as safety sensitive.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Complete scheduled and non-scheduled Maintenance on all equipment, systems and subsystems for the safe operation of transit coaches.
Responsible for Standardized Preventive Maintenance Program Inspections, Services and Repairs on Heavy duty Transit Buses, Para Transit Vehicles and Support Vehicles.
Works with technicians to determine the source of problem and/or failure.
Works independently to determine the source of problem and/or failure.
Executes Bus Swaps outs and field repairs as needed including the replacement of tires and completes vehicle Pre-Trip Inspections.
Cleans Shop Work Areas, pressure wash engines, transmissions and perform other cleaning task as needed.
Complete written and electronic work orders with a detailed description of the work performed.
Road Testing vehicles to determine nature of problems and verification of complaints and repairs.
Replacement of tires, including the demounting and mounting of tires on wheels.
Safe use of Bus Lifts for lifting all sizes of vehicles.
Visual Inspection of Vehicles to determine their readiness for service.
Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

High School diploma or G.E.D. required; minimum of three (3) years experience servicing and repairing heavy duty diesel engines, Gasoline engines, and general fleet repair. An equivalent combination of education and experience that is determined to be directly related to the specific requirements may be substituted.

Must have an assortment of general and specialized tools specific to automotive repair.

OTHER CERTIFICATES/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 90 days of employment. Must be maintained in good standing while employed with the District.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
Ability to maintain accurate records of work performed and materials used.
Must be available to work various shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime.
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.
Knowledge of the location, nomenclature, and function of complex parts of heavy duty diesel transit equipment.
Knowledge and demonstrated experience with the materials, methods and equipment typically used in heavy duty diesel maintenance repair and service.
Knowledge and demonstrated experience of the utilization of diagnostic methods and procedures necessary to repair and maintain heavy duty diesel engines and ancillary equipment.

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 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.

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Paratransit Bus Operator

Position Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Director of Operations
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Department: Operations

Pay: $20.25/Hour

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:

Learns to be responsible for the safe transportation of passengers.
Learns to and aids in the loading and unloading process of passengers needing assistance in boarding.
Learns how to and performs daily pre and post-trip inspections of the bus in accordance with applicable regulations and District guidelines.
Learns how to complete daily post-trip inspections, including checking the condition of the bus.
Learns how to maintain the cleanliness of the bus interiors.
Learns how to communicate routine, urgent and emergency situations.
Attends all meetings and training sessions including all in service and driver meetings, first aid and CPR classes that are required by the District.
Responsible for learning all District rules, policies and procedures.
Learns how to verify route times to maintain the accuracy of the schedulers’ assignments.
Learns how to provide information to the scheduler and dispatcher for updating maps and routes.
Learns how to report accidents and/or incidents and follow District procedures in accordance with the accident reporting procedure.
Learns how to deal with passengers and the public with courtesy and patience.
Learns how to assist impaired passengers in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act.
Learns how to assist Paratransit passengers at pick-up and drop-off points.
Learns how to deal with passengers who may have a wide range of mental acuity.
Assists impaired passengers in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act.
Learns how to load and secure up to five (5) wheelchair scooters.
Learns how to deal with emergency situations.
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:

LICENSES:

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

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Part-Time Shuttle Bus Operator

Job Title: Part-Time Shuttle Bus Operator
Department: Operations
Reports To: Operations Director
FLSA Status: Non-exempt/Part-Time

Pay: $18.40/hr

SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for providing safe, reliable, and courteous shuttle bus transportation to the public. The position includes a structured training period during which the employee develops the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a Part-Time Shuttle Bus Operator. Upon successful completion of training, the employee is expected to safely and efficiently transport passengers while following established routes, schedules, District policies, and operating procedures.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Operates a shuttle bus to safely and efficiently transport members of the public.
Complies with all District rules, policies, procedures, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspections to verify the vehicle’s condition and identify and report maintenance or safety concerns.
Reports accidents, incidents, and emergencies promptly and follows established District reporting procedures.
Provides courteous, patient, and professional customer service to passengers and members of the public.
Assists passengers with disabilities or those requiring assistance with boarding, exiting, and other transportation-related needs, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and District procedures.
Loads and secures up to two (2) wheelchair scooters in accordance with applicable safety procedures.
Assists passengers at designated pick-up and drop-off locations.
Handles routine, urgent, and emergency situations appropriately and communicates relevant information to the appropriate personnel.
Monitors the cleanliness of the shuttle bus interior and reports any issues requiring attention.
Checks the shuttle bus for lost or forgotten items and reports or turns in recovered items in accordance with District procedures.
Communicates with schedulers and dispatchers regarding route times, schedule discrepancies, and recommended updates to maps or routes.
Performs vehicle refueling in accordance with established procedures.
Assists with training new operators, as assigned.
Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

High school diploma or GED credential required, along with 2 to 4 years of customer service experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the requirements of the position may be substituted.

OTHER CERTIFICATES/LICENSES:

Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Class E driver’s license.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Knowledge of county geography and established bus routes.
Ability to safely operate a shuttle bus or other vehicle under varying weather and traffic conditions.
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks effectively.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal, customer service, and conflict-resolution skills.
Ability to work independently, take initiative, and exercise sound judgment.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, County and City employees, passengers, and the general public.
Ability to exercise discretion, make sound decisions in daily work activities, and maintain high ethical standards.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT and PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

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

The position may occasionally require lifting up to 100 lbs.

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Service Island Supervisor

Job Title: Service Island Supervisor
Department: Maintenance
Reports To: Maintenance Manager
FLSA Status: Non-exempt/Full Time

Pay: $22/hr

SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for cleaning and resolving operator complaints about equipment for pre-post trips. This position is also responsible for supervising the refueling, servicing and cleaning of fixed route buses, paratransit buses and support vehicles in a fast-paced environment. This position is responsible for performing any of the above responsibilities as needed in remote locations. This position requires shift work including evenings and weekends.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Ensure that all vehicles are refueled, all fluid levels are checked, and vehicles are not leaking fluids or air. Ensure tires are checked for air and tread conditions.
Ensure the interior and exterior of buses and support vehicles are cleaned. This shall include sweeping, moping, cleaning seats, removal of trash, window washing, cleaning of grab rails, cleaning operator’s area and dash. Ensure buses are washed and parked safely.
Ensure fare collections are performed per maintenance managers instructions.
Operate buses and support vehicles on District property and public roadways.
Review operator Pre & Post Trip reports.
Perform minor mechanical work/repairs as needed. Work may include but not be limited to the repair of lights, mirrors, battery replacement, windshield wiper replacement, minor electrical problems, wheelchair restraint, and adjustment of fluid levels.
Work closely with operations to resolve Operator complaints on equipment.
Performs other related duties as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Must have or be able to acquire a current and valid Florida CDL Class B license with airbrakes and passenger endorsement. * Must successfully pass the Citrus Connection CDL Defensive Driving Course. Must pass DOT Medical Exam. High school diploma or GED preferred. Clean driving record.

* A CDL permit may be accepted if candidate demonstrates the required knowledge, skills and ability to effectively perform the functions of this position (must possess CDL license prior to completion of probationary period).

OTHER CERTIFICATES/LICENSES:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Knowledge of supervision and the ability to direct a work crew.
Knowledge of cleaning and refueling operations.
Ability to use fuel cards and other required paperwork or electronic data entry forms.
Ability to work with chemicals and follow applicable MSDS/SDS guidelines.
Ability to pass a DOT physical and drug screen and maintain CLD B license with endorsements.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of staff, the public and those doing business with Citrus Connection.
Ability to read, understand and interpret operations and service manuals in English.
Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to effectively communicate in English, both orally and in writing.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT and PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The functions of this position are primarily performed outdoors under varying weather conditions with exposure to various fuels and other chemical agents. Must be able to work with commercial cleaners and toxic materials. Requires the stamina and ability to stand, supervise and assist with the work if necessary in all weather conditions; bend, stoop, walk, run, scrub, push, stretch, kneel and lift 50 lbs. Requires normal visual acuity and field of vision, hearing, speaking and color perception; dexterity in operating equipment.

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Squeeze Shuttle Operator (Part-Time)

Job Title: Squeeze Shuttle Operator (Part-Time)
Department: Operations
Reports To: Operations Director
FLSA Status: Non-exempt/Part-Time

Pay: $18.40/hr

SUMMARY:

The part-time Squeeze Shuttle Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently providing courteous, reliable, and customer-focused transportation to the public through Squeeze, the District’s complimentary downtown shuttle service operating in Lakeland and Lake Wales. The position includes an initial training period to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to perform all assigned duties independently and in accordance with District policies, procedures, and service standards.

Operators may be assigned to operate traditional passenger golf carts, electric GEM vehicles, vans, minibuses, or other District-authorized vehicles, as operational needs require. Assignments may vary based on weather conditions, passenger demand, special events, and other service needs.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Safely operate assigned Squeeze vehicles to transport passengers, following applicable traffic laws, designated service areas, routes, schedules, and District policies and procedures.
Perform required pre-trip and post-trip inspections and other vehicle readiness activities; identify, document, and report vehicle defects, damage, maintenance needs, and other concerns.
Maintain vehicle cleanliness and readiness, including monitoring the passenger compartment, performing required refueling or other assigned vehicle servicing, and reporting any condition that may affect safe operation.
Provide courteous, professional, and patient customer service to passengers and the public; communicate clearly, answer questions, provide service and route information, and address concerns or conflicts appropriately.
Assist passengers with boarding, exiting, and other reasonable transportation-related needs, including providing appropriate assistance to passengers with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws, District procedures, and training.
Safely load, secure, and unload up to two (2) passenger mobility scooters when required and when the assigned vehicle is equipped and capable of accommodating them.
Assist passengers at designated or approved pick-up and drop-off locations and follow applicable passenger loading, unloading, and safety procedures.
Monitor service conditions and communicate with dispatchers, schedulers, supervisors, and other appropriate personnel regarding routine operations, passenger needs, delays, service disruptions, urgent matters, and emergencies.
Verify route and schedule information; communicate operational changes, route concerns, service needs, and recommendations to appropriate personnel to support accurate scheduling and the maintenance or updating of routes and maps.
Recognize, respond to, and report accidents, incidents, emergencies, safety hazards, and other unusual situations in accordance with District procedures, including completing required reports and notifications.
Check assigned vehicles for lost, forgotten, or unattended passenger belongings and report or turn over recovered items in accordance with District procedures.
Work independently while exercising sound judgment, discretion, professionalism, and appropriate conflict-resolution skills, and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, City and County personnel, passengers, and the general public.
Complete required initial and ongoing training and demonstrate proficiency in vehicle operation, passenger assistance, inspections, communications, route and schedule procedures, emergency response, and other assigned responsibilities.
Assist with the orientation and training of new operators when assigned.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

High school diploma or GED credential required.
Two (2) to four (4) years of customer service experience.
An equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the requirements of the position may be substituted.

OTHER CERTIFICATES/LICENSES:

Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Class E driver’s license.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Knowledge of local geography, including designated service areas, routes, and relevant roadways.
Ability to safely operate assigned passenger vehicles, including traditional golf carts, electric GEM vehicles, vans, and minibuses, in varying weather, traffic, and operating conditions.
Ability to learn, understand, and follow District policies, procedures, service standards, vehicle operating requirements, and applicable laws and regulations.
Ability to provide excellent customer service and communicate effectively, professionally, and courteously with passengers, coworkers, dispatchers, schedulers, supervisors, and the public.
Ability to recognize and appropriately respond to routine, urgent, emergency, and potentially confrontational situations.
Strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment and discretion, manage multiple responsibilities, and remain effective under pressure.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with District personnel, City and County employees, customers, and the general public.
Ability to learn and apply route, schedule, dispatch, vehicle inspection, passenger assistance, incident reporting, and emergency procedures.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT and PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

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

Work is performed outdoors and in vehicles under varying weather conditions, including rain, heat, and other weather conditions.
The position may require infrequent lifting of up to 100 lbs, as well as physical effort associated with passenger assistance and other assigned duties.

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sELECTION PROCESS

Applications are initially reviewed by the Human Resources Department to ensure they meet the minimum qualifications for the position.

Once this initial screening is complete, applications are sent to the appropriate department’s selection committee, which may vary depending on the position. This group is responsible for reviewing qualified candidates and identifying those they wish to interview.

Human Resources will then contact the selected applicants to schedule in-person interviews.

2023-26 EEO AAP

EEOC Protected Class Title VII Brochure

FTA Drug and Alcohol Policy

DOT Substance Abuse Policy

CDL Manual

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.

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
President’s’ Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veteran’s Day
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day

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.

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

Tony Kirk Sr., SHRM-CP
Director of Human Resources/Risk
Citrus Connection
1212 George Jenkins Blvd.,
Lakeland, FL 33815
Phone: (863) 327-1308
E-mail: tkirk@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

Fixed Routes

Bus Systems

About Us

Employment Opportunities

Fixed Route Bus Operator

Fleet Maintenance Technician

Paratransit Bus Operator

Part-Time Shuttle Bus Operator

Service Island Supervisor

Squeeze Shuttle Operator (Part-Time)

sELECTION PROCESS

DRUG FREE WORKPLACE

Benefits

Holidays

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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