Bus Driver / Maintenance

Bus Driver

The Bus Driver is responsible for safely operating the bus or alternative vehicle to transport children to and from their homes and the Head Start centers. In this capacity, the Bus Driver is often the first and the last person that both a parent and a child see each program day. Secondary duties include performing routine maintenance work as requested. The bus driver responsibilities chiefly fall within the following core functions, although s / he may perform other tasks as needed :

• Safely operating the bus or alternative vehicle to transport children to and from their homes and the Head Start centers.
• Maintaining accurate records regarding their vehicle and children who are being transported.
• Establishing written fixed bus routes and if necessary, alternate routes.
• Escorting children to their classroom and conveying any messages from parents to the teacher, as well as any incidents on the bus.
• Collaborating with the Bus Monitor to teach children safe riding practices and safety procedures on and off the bus.
• Maintaining a safe and clean environment inside and outside the bus through regular cleanings.
• Maintaining their assigned vehicle and ensuring that appropriate safety inspections have been completed for its operation as required by federal, state, Tribal, or local authorities.
• Attending regular training for reporting child abuse and neglect and topics related to caring for disabled children.

Each Bus Driver must have an annual evaluation that includes an on-board observation of their performance while driving a bus route. Bus Drivers need to serve as a role model for children riding the bus and in contacts with parents or guardians.

Requirements include possessing a valid CDL - commercial driver's license, prior experience with safely transporting children, and the ability to lift a child weighing 40 pounds, 20 times a day if needed. Bus Drivers must also pass physical examination and all Head Start / licensing required background checks. They must maintain current Physical / TB screen requirements including a clean driving record, passes a criminal background check, passes a screening for alcohol and drugs, passes a physical examination and is able to lift 50 pounds, passes a tuberculosis (TB) test, has good hearing and at least 20 / 40 vision with or without glasses.

Ideal qualifications include basic computer literacy in email usage, word processing and internet navigation, knowledge about federal, state, local, or Tribal transportation requirements, knowledge of the geographic locale and language spoken by the families served, and skills and abilities to problem solve and provide leadership whenever an emergency situation occurs.