About Company
Golden Arrow Bus Services is a cornerstone of public transport in the Western Cape, South Africa. With a rich history spanning over 150 years, we are dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and affordable bus services to millions of commuters daily. Our extensive network connects communities, facilitates economic activity, and plays a vital role in the social fabric of the region. We pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to safety, exceptional customer service, and environmental sustainability, continuously investing in modern fleet technology and robust driver training programs to uphold our reputation as a leader in passenger transport. Joining Golden Arrow means becoming part of a respected legacy of excellence and a collaborative team that is passionate about making a tangible positive impact on people’s lives and local communities.
Job Description
Are you a highly skilled and safety-conscious professional driver with a deep-seated passion for serving the community? Golden Arrow Bus Services is actively seeking experienced, dedicated, and customer-focused Full-Time Bus Drivers to join our dynamic operational team in Paarl, Western Cape. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the safe, punctual, and efficient transportation of passengers across designated routes, ensuring their comfort and adherence to schedules are paramount. This isn’t merely a driving job; it’s a role where you become the visible representative of Golden Arrow, embodying our steadfast commitment to exceptional service, unwavering reliability, and the well-being of our passengers.
We are looking for individuals who take immense personal pride in their driving abilities, possess excellent navigational skills within the Paarl and surrounding areas, and consistently maintain a calm, professional, and courteous demeanor under all circumstances, including challenging traffic conditions or unforeseen events. Your daily responsibilities will extend significantly beyond simply operating a vehicle; you will be an integral part of our passengers’ daily routines, contributing directly to their punctuality, their sense of safety, and their overall peace of mind. Successful candidates will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of all road safety regulations, maintain impeccable vehicle cleanliness to enhance the passenger experience, and be proactive in addressing passenger inquiries or concerns with a friendly, helpful, and solution-oriented attitude. If you thrive in a challenging yet profoundly rewarding environment, value long-term job stability, and are genuinely committed to contributing positively to the vital public transport sector in the Western Cape, we strongly encourage you to apply and help us continue our proud tradition of connecting communities and enriching lives.
Key Responsibilities
- Safely and responsibly operate a passenger bus on designated routes, adhering strictly to established schedules, speed limits, and all applicable traffic laws.
- Ensure the comfort, security, and safety of all passengers, including proactively assisting those with special needs, disabilities, or young children when required.
- Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections, meticulously checking for any mechanical defects, safety hazards, or maintenance requirements, and reporting them promptly.
- Accurately collect fares, issue tickets, or verify valid passes using on-board electronic equipment and company protocols.
- Maintain precise and up-to-date records of mileage, fuel consumption, passenger counts, and any incidents as required by company policy.
- Communicate effectively, clearly, and professionally with passengers, fellow colleagues, depot staff, and management.
- Handle unexpected situations such as mechanical breakdowns, route delays, passenger medical emergencies, or road incidents with composure, professionalism, and according to established company procedures.
- Adhere to all company policies, operational procedures, safety regulations, and uniform standards at all times.
- Maintain the cleanliness and tidiness of the bus interior throughout shifts, ensuring a pleasant environment for passengers.
- Provide exceptional customer service, courteously answering passenger questions, providing accurate route information, and assisting with luggage when appropriate.
Required Skills
- Valid Code EC (or equivalent) driver's license with a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) for Passengers.
- Minimum 2 years of verifiable professional bus driving experience.
- Clean driving record with no major endorsements or traffic violations.
- Excellent knowledge and strict adherence to traffic laws, road safety regulations, and defensive driving techniques.
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, late evenings, weekends, public holidays, and split shifts.
- Good geographical familiarity with Paarl, its surrounding areas, and key routes within the Western Cape.
- Demonstrated unwavering commitment to passenger safety and comfort.
- Ability to perform basic vehicle checks and accurately report faults or mechanical issues.
- Proven reliability, punctuality, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Preferred Qualifications
- Certificate in Advanced Defensive Driving or similar safety-focused training.
- Valid First Aid certification.
- Previous experience specifically within public transport or large-scale passenger vehicle operations.
- Proficiency in more than one official South African language (e.g., Afrikaans, Xhosa) to better serve diverse communities.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and performance.
- Comprehensive medical aid contribution for employee and dependants.
- Robust pension fund benefits to secure your future.
- Ongoing professional development, refresher training, and career advancement opportunities within a leading transport company.
- Stable and secure full-time employment with a respected industry leader.
- Provision of full company uniform.
- Access to employee assistance programs for personal and professional support.
- Positive and supportive work environment with a focus on teamwork.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the above criteria and are eager to join a legacy of excellence in public transport are invited to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your application includes a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining your driving experience, relevant qualifications, and up-to-date contact details. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the Golden Arrow family!