Transportation Specialist

About Us:

LTAI C.M.H.S. Inc. & ACTS II Ministry For Teens Inc. is a licensed and contracted child-caring institution providing open residential foster care home services to youth ages 13 to 17. LTAI C.M.H.S. Inc. is the only licensed girls' home in Kalamazoo County that offers residential services for girls We also have a separate home for cognitively impaired and developmentally disabled boys ages We offer a range of valuable services to help our residents transition to less restrictive environments. We provide care in a warm, caring, and nurturing environment.

MISSION: "Empower and equip youth for success beyond foster care."

VISION: "Develop thriving young adults to transform families and communities."

Job Description

The Transportation Specialist is responsible for safely transporting youth in foster care to and from scheduled appointments, court hearings, family visits, school, IL (Independent Living) training, and recreational outings. This position plays a critical role in supporting the continuity of care and ensuring that youth placed in LTAI residential homes receive consistent, trauma-informed, and reliable transportation services.

The ideal candidate is a safety-conscious, compassionate, and dependable individual with experience working with vulnerable populations, including developmentally disabled and cognitively impaired youth.

Major Transportation Duties & Responsibilities

Key Duties

• Transport youth to medical, dental, therapeutic, school, court, family, and community-based appointments as scheduled.
• Maintain accurate trip logs including mileage, pick-up/drop-off times, and youth transported.
• Provide courteous, calm, and supportive interactions with youth during transit.
• Ensure all youth and staff wear seatbelts and that appropriate safety measures are followed, at all times.
• Use LTAI agency vehicles only for authorized transports.

Vehicle Maintenance & Safety

• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of assigned vehicle(s).
• Ensure vehicles are clean (interior and exterior), fueled, and free of safety hazards.
• Report all vehicle issues, incidents, or repairs immediately to the COO.
• Schedule or assist with routine vehicle maintenance (oil changes, tire rotation, detailing).
• Maintain vehicle cleanliness and sanitation after each trip, especially when transporting youth with known medical or hygiene concerns.

Youth Care & Behavioral Support

• Maintain awareness of each youth's behavioral and emotional needs during transport.
• Communicate any notable behaviors or concerns to LTAI staff immediately following transport.
• Apply trauma-informed care principles when interacting with youth who may be escalated, anxious, or overstimulated.
• Follow agency protocols in the event of elopement, medical emergencies, or behavioral incidents in the vehicle.

Documentation & Compliance

• Submit maintenance, fueling and other vehicle related receipts to LTAI's Quality and Compliance Officer
• Complete daily mileage and transport logs.
• Submit incident reports within 24 hours for accidents, behavioral issues, or emergencies.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and child welfare regulations.
• Follow LTAI agency vehicle use policies, safety protocols, and transportation schedules.
• Complete LTAI Orientation and Trainings as requested.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Valid Michigan Driver's License with a clean driving record
• Ability to pass a comprehensive background check and central registry clearance
• CPR/First Aid certified (or willingness to complete upon hire)
• Must be at least 21 years old
• Must have at least 4 years driving experience
• Must have physical ability to lift up to 25 lbs., and assist youth in and out of the vehicle, if necessary

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in child welfare, group homes, residential treatment, or related human services field
• Experience working with youth who are developmentally disabled or cognitively · impaired
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care and de-escalation techniques
• Excellent time management and communication skills
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality

Working Conditions

• Regular exposure to youth in crisis and to unpredictable behaviors
• Must be willing to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, and occasional weekends
• Driving in varied weather conditions and throughout the greater Kalamazoo area and beyond as needed

Work Environment:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel as classified.

It is imperative to recognize that employment at Let's Talk About It CMH Services Inc. entails the possibility of encountering youth who may exhibit violent or mentally unstable behavior. One of our top priorities is the safety and welfare of our staff members, and as such, we are committed to providing comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure a secure and safe working environment. Understanding and acknowledging this potential risk is crucial for maintaining the safety of both our staff and the youth in our care.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Let's Talk About It CMH Services, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds, especially those with lived experience in child welfare or behavioral health, to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 32 – 40 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid training

Work Location: In person