Long Island Bus operator schedules job fairs

Long Island Bus’ future operator will host two job fairs this week with the goal of putting together a workforce for Nassau County’s new bus system.

Veolia Transportation, of Lombard, Ill., is holding the job fairs at the Long Island Marriott Hotel in Uniondale from 1 to 8 p.m. Thursday and from 7:30 a.m. to noon Friday. Thursday’s job fair is only for existing MTA LI Bus employees. Friday’s event is open to both LI Bus employees and the public.

In June, Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano selected Veolia from among three private bidders to operate LI Bus, which has been run by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority for nearly 40 years. Pending a finalized contract and the approval of the county legislature and Nassau Interim Finance Authority, Veolia will take over LI Bus on Jan. 1.

“This will be a great opportunity for those interested in positions with the Nassau County bus service to get to know Veolia’s team and more details about the full range of positions that are being filled. We look forward to meeting candidates who will help us deliver quality service for our riders,” said Mike Setzer, Veolia’s chief executive for the Nassau County bus system.

Veolia officials have said they intend to hire as many current LI Bus employees as possible, but all candidates will have to go through the application process.

Among the jobs Veolia is looking to fill are bus drivers, mechanics, dispatchers, maintenance workers, cleaners and supervisors.

Those planning to attend should bring their resumes, driver’s licenses and other important documents, Veolia officials said.

Veolia officials said the number of employees they will hire "has not been established."