Kitsap Transit extends $7,000 hiring bonus for another year
Since we introduced our $7,000 hiring incentive last August, Kitsap Transit has seen an encouraging uptick in the number of operator applications and hires. In total, we have hired and retained 50 operators since August 1, 2022.
However, we still need to hire more operators to restore service cut during the pandemic and expand service on Sundays. Last month, Kitsap Transit’s Board of Commissioners approved the extension of the hiring bonus to keep our hiring momentum going.
At the same time, the board also gave Kitsap Transit the ability to offer a modified version of the hiring incentive to applicants for other ACCESS and Route operations jobs.
“The hiring incentive has done well, we’re starting to see more and more potential operators applying for the position and going through the training,” Executive Director John Clauson said.
Here’s how it works:
Operators will receive $1,500 after obtaining their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit and medical examiner’s certificate.
New hires that are already fully licensed will receive $2,000 after completing their second week of training.
Employees will receive a second payment of $2,000 after completing 80 hours of solo driving (driving without direct supervision).
Employees will receive a third payment of $3,000 after completing 2080 hours of solo driving.
No experience is required to apply: You just need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, a valid Washington State driver’s license and pass a pre-employment drug test and criminal background check.
On top of wage increases and hiring incentives, Kitsap Transit offers excellent benefits for our employees, including:
Paid training, including CDL testing and certification
Health, dental and vision insurance with dependent coverage
Pension through the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)
Nine paid holidays and two paid floating holidays
Generous paid leave
Free transit passes for all Kitsap Transit services
For more details about working for Kitsap Transit and to submit your application, visit kitsaptransit.com/drive.
*New hiring incentive: Incentive will be paid in three installments to eligible applicants. All incentives are subject to standard payroll taxes.