Lextran facing bus driver and mechanic shortage

Lexington, Ky. (WTVQ) — Lextran is experiencing a shortage of drivers and mechanics. Officials with Lextran tell me that while this may be a national problem, they are working to hire the positions.

“So across the nation in the transit industry, there’s been a long standing need for bus driver and mechanics,” said Emily Elliott, Director of Planning and Community Development. “We have been continuously hiring and we’re going to continue to do so, but there’s a definite need and unfortunately we’re not the only ones in that space.”

Elliott says with the shortage Lextran sometimes has difficulty scheduling, but once they hire new staff it will allow them more flexible schedules.

“For folks on our staff who are operating those vehicles, for our maintenance mechanics, that department never shuts down. They’re here working 24 hours a day, 365 days.”

Elliott says that in 2022, Lextran had over 3 million trips and over 3.7 million in 2023.

“One of the really good things about the positions at Lextran is they are great union jobs, they are full time year round and it is a CDL holder job. You have great benefits, full dental, vision, healthcare. You’re training is paid, you don’t have to have a CDL to apply. And we currently have a sign on bonus for both bus operators and mechanics available.”

While they work to fill these positions, Lextran says they are extremely thankful to their employees dedication and their obligation to meeting the needs of their community.

If you are interested in a position with Lextran, you can visit their website lextran.com