Transportation Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the guidance of the Early Childhood Director and direct oversight of the Center Manager, this role encompasses all responsibilities related to the safe transportation of children and the upkeep of assigned vehicles and facilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Exhibit a professional demeanor consistently when interacting with staff, parents, volunteers, and children.
2. Collaborate with the Supervisor to establish bus routes, operating the bus on designated routes each morning and afternoon throughout the week.
3. Ensure the safe transport of children during boarding, riding, and disembarking, returning them to their parents or authorized guardians.
4. Oversee the maintenance of facilities and vehicles in a timely and professional manner, including but not limited to:

• Changing air filters in HVAC systems
• Conducting monthly fire extinguisher inspections
• Maintaining the grounds through watering, mowing, trimming, and weed control
• Ensuring buses are in optimal operating condition and reporting any issues to the supervisor
• Maintaining a clean and safe environment inside and outside the bus through regular cleaning.

1. Participate in mandatory Random Drug and Alcohol Testing for drivers.
2. Engage in a combination of classroom and practical driving instruction prior to transporting children, covering:

• Safe and efficient vehicle operation;
• Running a fixed route safely;
• Administering basic first aid in emergencies;
• Managing emergency situations, including evacuation procedures;
• Operating special equipment like wheelchair lifts and safety restraints;
• Conducting routine vehicle maintenance and safety checks;
• Understanding the goals and philosophy of the Head Start program.

1. Maintain accurate records related to bus operations and children being transported, including:

• Accident documentation
• Pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections
• Regular maintenance logs
• Contact details for child release to guardians
• Written fixed bus routes and alternate routes as necessary

1. Work alongside the Bus Monitor to educate children on safe riding practices and procedures.
2. Ensure the assigned vehicle is well-maintained and that all safety inspections comply with state regulations.
3. Complete an annual evaluation that includes an on-board performance observation.
4. Perform minor repairs as needed to maintain safe facilities.
5. Timely completion of Maintenance/Work requests and submission of completed orders to the Supervisor.
6. Prepare facilities for special activities promptly.
7. Assist in moving supplies, furniture, or equipment as required.
8. Manage data related to transportation and designated areas effectively.
9. Help prevent fraud and ensure compliance in transportation and overall center management.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the program.
2. Participate in training aimed at professional development.
3. Handle stress and challenges that arise from daily interactions with children and adults.
4. Be prepared to administer first aid to children or staff as necessary.
5. Perform other job-related duties as required for the program's operation.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Education: High school diploma or GED.
2. Experience: Minimum of three months driving experience with a bus or similar vehicle. A clean driving record is essential. Experience in minor repairs and maintenance is preferred. Basic computer skills are required.
3. Physical Requirements:

• Must be at least 25 years old.
• Pass tuberculosis screening.
• Possess a valid commercial driver's license with a school bus endorsement or be capable of obtaining one.
• Successfully complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam prior to employment and annually thereafter.
• Pass drug screening prior to employment.
• Have access to transportation with liability insurance and be willing to use it for agency-related travel.
• Ability to communicate effectively with children and adults.
• Specific vision abilities required include close, distance, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds, using necessary protective equipment and seeking assistance as needed.

1. Skills: Proficient in reading, writing, and performing basic mathematical calculations. Basic computer skills are necessary.
2. Personal Traits:

• Supportive of the Head Start Program's concepts.
• Maintain confidentiality without inappropriate disclosure.
• Possess planning and organizational skills to effectively problem-solve and lead during emergencies.
• Ability to make decisions and work independently without close supervision.

1. Must successfully pass background checks.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this role effectively, an individual must meet the essential functions satisfactorily. The requirements listed above represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Compensation: $16.38 per hour

Benefits: Eligible full-time regular positions offer 14 paid holidays, 12 paid annual leave days, and 12 paid sick days per year; employer-provided life insurance, medical insurance supplement, education assistance, 401K with matching contributions, and more.

Note: All staff must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or have an approved exemption.