Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
You don’t need a CDL to apply. We’ll provide paid training and testing for your license. However, you must obtain an Oregon or Washington Commercial Learner's Permit before starting employment with TriMet.
Wages and training
The training period is seven weeks of full-time (40 hours/week) training. You’ll receive $29.35 an hour during training and for the first 18 months of work with regular, guaranteed pay increases every four months until the top rate of pay ($39.12) is reached at 35 months.
Time on the job |
Wage |
First 18 months |
$29.35 |
19th–22nd months |
$31.28 |
23rd–26th months |
$33.22 |
27th–30th months |
$35.24 |
31st–34th months |
$37.20 |
35th month (top operator rate) |
$39.12 |
Work hours
This position includes work shifts that vary from day to night, including split shifts, weekends and holidays. Schedules are created based on seniority, and we are unable to accommodate school or other work schedules.
Work environment
You will be operating a bus in all weather conditions and with varying routes. You will interact with the public and provide excellent customer service to riders of different abilities, cultures and backgrounds.
No heavy lifting required.
What benefits does TriMet offer?
- Low to no-cost medical, prescription, dental and vision insurance
- Health care/dependent care spending accounts
- Defined contribution retirement plan with 9% company match (no employee contribution required)
- Deferred compensation retirement plan
- Up to $5,250 yearly tuition reimbursement for continuing education
- $150 monthly childcare subsidy
- On-site fitness center for a small fee
- $18,250 employer-paid life insurance for part-time operators
- $25,000 employer-paid life insurance for full-time operators
- Short-term disability
- Paid vacation time and sick leave
- Time-and-a-half for hours worked on holidays when out of probation
- Employee assistance program
- Access to an online learning resource with hundreds of learning courses
- Free transit pass for you and your family
Do part-time drivers receive medical benefits?
Yes, even while working part-time, you will get the same great medical, dental and vision benefits full-time employees receive following 30 days of employment. Other benefits include a retirement plan with generous company match, life insurance at no cost and access to TriMet’s network of fitness facilities. After your probationary period is complete you’ll have access to TriMet’s employee assistance program, free transit passes for eligible dependents, paid sick time and paid holidays!
How soon can I go full-time?
New TriMet bus drivers now have immediate access to full-time work.
How do I become a MAX or Portland Streetcar operator?
Learn more.
One more thing...
Although recreational marijuana use is legal in the state of Oregon, you will not be considered for this position if you’re unable to pass a pre-employment drug screening due to federal regulations. Drivers are also subject to random drug screens during employment.