I really hate my sucky job. But lemme tell ya one thing, (those who are unemployed)

[FlyingSquirrel]

...if you're looking for job security in a down economy (or job security for pretty much life as long as you don't screw up).... be a bus driver. 'cause when the economy sucks, people ride buses even more.

You can start off by becoming a school bus driver. They'll train ya and they're really desperate for drivers all the time because that job sucks even more.

But you don't really have to be a school bus driver, that just helps. You can get the job without experience as long as you have other qualities they're looking for. They'll also train you and help you get your commercial drivers license.

I wouldn't wish this job on anyone.. except those who want good pay and benefits, don't have other in-demand skills, and need work.

[tavalon]

1. Which sucks worse

Sound Transit or Metro?

I've actually found the drivers on both systems to be almost universally nice.

[FlyingSquirrel]

2. As far as companies to work for?

I wouldn't know, I drove for Metro but not Sound Transit. And now I drive for Everett Transit. Metro has great benefits. The pay is pretty much close to the same everywhere in the region. However it takes a long time to go full-time there. I've heard that Community Transit isn't the greatest to work for, by ex-drivers. Some of their commuter routes are contracted out, I hear, and the pay is not as good. Not sure if Sound Transit is included in that situation.

[Dyedinthewoolliberal]

4. Wow!

Small world, I live in Everett and have at times ridden the bus. :)

[FlyingSquirrel]

6. Cool :-)

[hfojvt]

3. what is so bad about the job?

Especially if the pay is good? But what is good pay? $18 an hour? $11 an hour? Lots of overtime?

[FlyingSquirrel]

5. It just drives me nuts sometimes

dealing with the weird ones, and answering the same questions over and over. And the rest breaks are sometimes inadequate when you have low seniority. Plus having to work evenings and weekends.

But really there are worse jobs out there. And most bus driving jobs in my area start at $19 an hour right now. At Everett Transit, strangely enough the newer drivers get the most overtime, 'cause the more senior drivers just don't want it.