Head Start Bus Driver

Essential Job Functions

• Make sound and immediate decisions based on traffic, road conditions and bus
• Complete pre and post trip bus inspections during scheduled
• Immediately inform supervisor of identified or suspected mechanical problems and follow through with authorized Complete and submit reports as required.
• Report all accidents and/or passenger injuries to  Designated Transportation Supervisor and follow policies and procedures.
• Keep an updated CDL with current DOT physical card and maintain a safe driving record; report changes to license status immediately.
• Report to Supervisor and log all employment activities according to Department of Federal Motor Carrier for CDL
• Report to Supervisor any over the counter drugs or medical conditions before performing a safety sensitive
• Pass alcohol/drug testing according to FMCSA requirements.

Pick up/deliver passengers safely per manifest and fixed route ride assignments.

• Inform authorized adults of transportation program policy and procedures.
• Follow all safety procedures.
• Treat passengers in a courteous, positive, friendly, and professional manner and confront situations
• Must perform all duties in accordance with ADA requirements for passenger assistance.
• Child passengers will be seated in a C.A.R.S seat properly.
• Keep to assigned route.
• Stay on schedule.

Provide positive public relations and program awareness by maintaining a clean bus, a professional appearance and participating in community events when assigned.

• Clean bus inside and out between passenger trips.
• Assist with training other drivers when requested.
• Understand and follow MNDOT, Agency, and Program guidelines and philosophy and report to supervisor requests that are unusual or do not fall under said guidelines.

Assist in operations.

• Be available to work Monday-Friday.
• Assist with shuttling buses to and from service appointments and route stops when needed.

Attend conferences, meetings, trainings, and committee meetings as approved by Supervisor.

• Attend agency-sponsored orientations and training.
• Attend and participate in assigned UCAP committees, work teams and meetings.
• Attend Head Start trainings as requested or required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Must possess knowledge of road use, laws, MNDOT and Head Start regulations.
• Ability to relate in a courteous and professional manner displaying sensitivity and caring attitude toward participants and
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to safely operate and maintain 5 - 23 passenger bus and wheelchair lift as applicable in all weather conditions.
• Ability to make appropriate decisions regarding safety issues.
• Know geographic area and ability to read maps.
• Ability to accept guidance, training, and support from other transportation staff.
• Work as a team member in the daily operations and on-going system development.
• Access to a reliable mode of transportation to and from the work site.
• Reliable, regular attendance.
• Must have satisfactory completion of medical exam per Head Start regulations.
• Must be able to pass DOT physical and alcohol/drug testing requirements.
• Must have satisfactory completion of background check.

Education and Experience 

• Able to obtain and keep a valid Class C or higher commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement and have a good driving record.
• Obtain CARS certification and Pediatric First Aid CPR certification within 90 days.