Staff Shuttle Driver

Job Description 

Position Title: Staff Shuttle Driver

Location: Niseko and Hakuba, Japan

Reports to: People Logistics Manager
Contract Term: Exact dates TBC - October/November, 2026 - April 2027
Salary: ¥2,250 per hour, starting

About Us

Rhythm is about creating epic experiences for our customers, which starts with our people. We live by our values and put people first. We take pride in creating working and living environments that foster innovation, adventure, and balance. Working at Rhythm is more than a job, it's an experience you will have forever.

The Role

As a Staff Shuttle Bus Driver, your primary responsibility is to ensure the safe, timely, and reliable transportation of staff between their accommodation and workplace each day. This involves following a designated route, adhering to a set timetable, and making scheduled stops to pick up and drop off passengers.

Key Responsibilities and Duties 

Driving

• Operate the shuttle bus according to the assigned route, designated stops, and timetable to ensure consistent and dependable service.
• Strictly adhere to all Japanese road rules and regulations at all times to ensure legal and responsible operation of the vehicle.
• Prioritize safety: Adjust driving behaviors based on road, traffic and weather conditions. Ensure all passengers are seated and the shuttle is not over capacity. 
• Communicate with fellow drivers, management, and staff about any route changes, delays, or incidents— when the vehicle is safely parked. 
• Monitor communication channels for obstacles, timetable or route changes. 
• Support Staff Events and Special Transportation needs when requested from the People Operations team.  

Vehicle Safety & Readiness:

• Conduct twice-daily inspections to ensure the shuttle bus is in optimal working condition.
• Identify and report any mechanical or safety issues promptly for resolution.
• Regularly refuel the vehicle and maintain other fluid levels as needed.
• Ensure all necessary systems are operational. 
• Ensure to follow start-up/turn-down procedures of the vehicle. 

Cleanliness & Presentation:

• Keep the bus clean, both interior and exterior, to maintain a professional appearance.
• Ensure the vehicle is free of snow, ice, and any visible damage, especially during winter months.
• Present the bus in a manner that contributes to a positive experience for all passengers and staff.

Support:

• Perform snow removal in the parking exit area when necessary to allow for timely and safe departure from the shuttle storage area. 
• Collaborate with other team members and provide assistance when required.
• Demonstrate a proactive attitude and willingness to take on extra responsibilities beyond primary driving duties.
• Be open to additional tasks as assigned by management to support daily operations.

What You Need to Succeed 

• International Driving Permit (IDP)  with category D stamp (higher than a standard driving licence required ( Australia: MR, NZ: class 2 or above). Check your local International Driving Permit issuing body, usually Post Offices, for more details) or a Japanese driving license with chugata or higher endorsement. The combination of IDP and your local licence must allow driving of 29-seater buses. 
• Experience driving 24-29-seat buses with a good and proven track record.
• Experience driving on snow and ice is highly important. 

The Perks and Benefits 

As a Rhythm employee, you’ll experience the same legendary hospitality we extend to our guests. We’re passionate about looking after our crew, and here are just a few of the perks you’ll enjoy when you join our team:

• Live, Work, and Play in Paradise: Immerse yourself in one of the world’s top mountain resorts.
• Work with a Legendary Crew: Join a team that’s passionate, fun-loving, and deeply connected to the industry.
• Subsidized Staff Accommodation: Affordable housing options and housing assistance to help you settle in.
• Epic Social Scene: From team ride days and department dinners to staff parties, events, and day trips, our social calendar is packed with opportunities to connect and unwind.
• Wellness and Lifestyle Benefits: Access the Rhythm Wellness program, enjoy free snowsports or bike demos, and take advantage of generous store discounts for you, your friends, and your family.

At Rhythm, we work hard, but we play even harder. If you know anyone who’s worked with us before, they’ll tell you this isn’t just a job- it’s an experience of a lifetime. Our fun, supportive culture is the heart of everything we do because people like you make Rhythm what it is.

Ready to join?

If you have the skills, the flair, and the stoke (enthusiasm) to share, we want to hear from you! Your passion for adventure and alignment with our core values could be the perfect fit for an unforgettable experience.

If you have any specific questions or require further clarification, please don't hesitate to reach out.