Help me choose a shift for my new bus driving job?

Question

I drive a commuter bus for a suburban transit organization. Right now, I'm a fill in, but starting next week, I get to pick a regular route and schedule. The senior drivers have some things locked up, but if I'm not fussy about which route, I have a choice of shifts. If I was fussy about the route, and the all are similar, not every route has every shift open.

Here's my choices:

4am-8am and 3pm-7pm $14.50/hr

7am-3:30pm $14/hr (not enough seniority)

3:30-12 midnight $14.25/hr

Sat 8am-4:30pm $14.25/hr (stand-by 4 weekdays, often get paid $14/hr for doing nothing)

Which would you choose? After 90 days, I get my first raise of about 3%. Then about 3-5% annually, depending on how the union negotiates the new contract. As it stands now you start at 85% of scale. After 90 days it goes to 88%. After your first year, 91%, after your 2nd 94%, after your 3rd 97% and after your 4th 100%. The union can only get about 1.5-2% the last two contracts, but have managed to hold on to benefits. Thanks.

Answer 1

What's your personality type?  Do you wake early and easily, and are a 'morning person', or do you do best in the afternoon and no one wants to talk to you until you've had your morning coffee?  

Or are you the night owl type that can sleep all day without a problem?

That should be what decides for you.

Answer 2

As a career bus driver I would say that choosing shifts all comes down to preference and seniority. I have found I prefer driving transit late at night and on weekends due to the lessor passenger volume and reduced traffic. I wouldn't worry about the slight difference in pay grade. With transit driving working conditions are everything! Avoid split shifts during the weekday rush hours. Start with something not too demanding or high pressure. Good luck!

Answer 3

i think i would choose the 3.30/midnight shift,a split shift takes a long time to get used to,and if you choose to do the saturday shift you wont be able to make plans in case you get called in to work,and also you are at home and will be spending money,all the time,but start 3.30 you have most of the day to yourself,but the saturday shift may be better if you have children to look after.

Answer 4

My dad always says to go for the money. So, go for the money. :)

Good luck! :)