Paratransit Operator CDL Trainee

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) is recruiting to the position of ***Paratransit Operator CDL Trainee***. This is a ***4-week*** training program for qualified applicants holding an active **RI** CDL drivers license with passenger and air brake endorsement permits or an active **RI** CDL Permit with Passenger, Air Brake and General Knowledge endorsement permits. *This is a non-represented at-will position and is not entitled to any benefits offered by RIPTA.*

Position: Paratransit Operator CDL Trainee

Posting Period July 4, 2026 through July 2, 2027

Salary $27.94 Hourly

Reports To RIPTA Training Instructor

Union Affiliation Non-Represented at-will position

Position Summary The Paratransit Division at RIPTA is its service for seniors and people with disabilities. The most used vehicles are 16-passenger vans able to accommodate two or more wheelchairs. This program is known publicly as the

RIde Program.

The Paratransit Operator CDL Trainee is a temporary at-will trainee with the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA).

The CDL Trainee works with RIPTA Training Instructors to obtain their full RI CDL drivers license and required endorsements to be eligible for permanent positions as Paratransit Operators. Once training is completed and the trainee successfully passes the CDL road skills test, the trainee will become eligible to join the RIPTA team as a Paratransit Operator.

Qualification Requirements High School Diploma or equivalent required;

Previous experience with elderly and people with disabilities preferred;

Must possess excellent customer relations skills; with the ability to communicate in English verbally and in writing;

Must be computer literate with the ability to operate and read a tablet and manifest, as well as follow directions and a road map;

Valid CDL Drivers License with Passenger, General Knowledge and Air Brake endorsements required, **or** must be able to qualify for one;

Candidates are required to secure a RI Class B CDL permit with passenger, air brake and general knowledge endorsement permits prior to being considered for participation in the training program;

RIPTA does not assist applicants with instruction regarding the permit written tests.

Candidates must have a valid RI CDL drivers license or active RI CDL permit with required passenger, air brake and general knowledge endorsement permits;

RIPTA is unable to provide CDL training to applicants licensed outside the State of Rhode Island.

Candidates are responsible for the cost of all required written tests, skills test and licensing fees associated with the CDL process. For more information on guidelines for CDL applicants, please visit www.dmv.ri.gov;

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