ABQ RIDE Hits the Gas on Hiring
ALBUQUERQUE – ABQ RIDE is 38 employees closer to bridging the driver shortage to avoid service cuts. In just a few hours, more than 65 applicants completed applications, received interviews, scheduled employee health appointments, and dozens walked out with a conditional job offer.
“We’re making it worth your while to work in City transit, whether it’s a career change or your last job before retirement,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “These are solid jobs with competitive benefits that provide stability for families and support from a staff that cares about your career success.”
In 2024, ABQ RIDE delivered more than 7.3 million rides to the community and is nearly 80% of the way to recovering pre-pandemic ridership levels. It’s critical to hire more drivers, mechanics, and other roles to keep the wheels of transit turning for convenient connectivity around Albuquerque and to meet the community’s growing demand for public transit services.
“The demand for public transportation is here,” said Transit Director Leslie Keener. “While we covered some great mileage today with new hires, we have a long road ahead. ABQ RIDE encourages the public to apply and be part of our inspiring, public-service oriented team who connects our community to where they need to go 359 days a year.”
In addition to substantial hiring benefits, ranging from $500-$5K for roles promoted at this event, ABQ RIDE staff enjoy upwards of $15K in City benefits annually that start on day one. New bus drivers can earn more than $72K in total compensation annually, with the potential of earning more than $85K annually.
“I am at this event because I have lived in Albuquerque my whole life and I saw a need. I’ve been in customer service over 20 years and feel that I can make a difference in this role. Sometimes people just need a smile and someone to listen. Public transit is good for Albuquerque and Albuquerque needs bus drivers; it’s part of the City. Transit gets everyone moving, people working,” said community member and now Motorcoach Operator Haywood Watson. “Public transportation is like the backbone of anything when it comes to work. Not everyone has a car. If I can help others get to and from work, I’m doing God’s work.”
The Albuquerque Police Department also participated in the event to hire Transit Safety Officers who enforce the Rules to Ride and monitor the system for rider safety.
“A lot of young people are interested in becoming Transit Safety Officers,” said Interim Deputy Commander Matthew McElroy. “This role completely immerses you in the department; it puts you just outside the realm of being a law enforcement officer by networking and doing many of the same activities as officers, but without the high stakes or commitment of going into the six-month police academy.”
Positions are still available for online applications in the following roles: Motorcoach Operator, Sun Van Chauffeur, Paint & Body Worker, Transit Vehicle Servicer, Mechanic II & III, Mechanic’s Helper, and Transit Safety Officer.
Apply for a job, learn about hiring incentives, find event information, and calculate your benefits. More information is available at ABQRIDE.com.
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ABQ RIDE’s mission is to provide the community with safe, clean, and reliable transportation.