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 designated vehicles and facilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Exhibit a professional demeanor consistently with staff, parents, volunteers, and children.
2. Collaborate with the Supervisor to develop efficient bus routes. Operate the bus on assigned routes during morning and afternoon shifts, five days a week.
3. Ensure the safe boarding, riding, and disembarking of children, returning them to their parents or authorized guardians.
4. Oversee the maintenance of facilities and vehicles in a timely and professional manner, which includes:

• 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 Bus Drivers.
2. Engage in a combination of classroom and practical driving instruction prior to transporting children, covering:

• Safe and efficient vehicle operation;
• Adhering to a fixed route;
• Administering basic first aid in emergencies;
• Managing emergency situations, including vehicle evacuation protocols;
• Operating specialized equipment such as wheelchair lifts and safety restraints;
• Conducting routine vehicle maintenance and safety checks;
• Understanding the goals and philosophy of the Head Start program and its implementation.

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

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

1. Work with 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 are completed as mandated by state regulations.
3. Undergo an annual evaluation that includes an on-board performance observation while driving.
4. Perform minor repairs as needed to ensure facility safety.
5. Complete Maintenance/Work requests promptly and submit to the Supervisor.
6. Prepare facilities for special events in a timely manner.
7. Assist in relocating supplies, furniture, or equipment as required.
8. Manage data related to transportation and designated areas.
9. Support the prevention of fraud and ensure compliance in transportation and overall center management.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the Head Start program.
2. Participate in all professional development training opportunities.
3. Manage stress and maintain composure when interacting with children and adults.
4. Be prepared to administer first aid to children or staff as needed.
5. Perform other job-related duties as necessary for the effective operation of the program.

QUALIFICATIONS:

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

• Must be at least 25 years old.
• Ability to pass tuberculosis screening.
• Valid commercial driver's license with a school bus endorsement or the ability to obtain one.
• Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam prior to employment and annually thereafter.
• Pass drug screening prior to employment.
• Access to transportation with liability insurance and willingness to use it for agency-related travel.
• Ability to hear and communicate effectively with children and adults.
• Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds, using necessary protective equipment and assistance as needed.

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

• Supportive of the Head Start Program's concepts.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Possess planning and organizational skills to effectively respond to emergencies.
• Ability to make independent decisions and work with minimal supervision.

1. Must successfully pass background checks.

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

Compensation: $16.38 per hour

Work Schedule: 5:30 AM - 10:00 AM / 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM with a break from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Benefits: Eligible full-time regular positions receive 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.

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