Bus Assistant - Ionia

Eightcap Inc • Ionia, MI

3d • $14 - $16

About The Position

As a Bus Assistant, you are responsible for assisting the Bus Driver in providing safe and reliable transportation for children enrolled in the Head Start program. As a Bus Assistant, you ensure that children are properly supervised, assisted, and secured in appropriate safety restraints during transport. This position supports the social, emotional, and physical well-being of children by providing care, reassurance, and positive interactions while maintaining compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards and Agency policies.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience working with young children.
• Ability to physically assist children, which may include carrying children to and from the bus in case of an emergency.
• Ability to safely and repeatedly climb up and down bus steps to assist children on and off the bus.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• A criminal records background check, including fingerprint checks.
• A valid Michigan driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety of children during transport by maintaining appropriate ratios, utilizing active supervision strategies and adhering to policies and procedures.
• Work collaboratively with the Bus Driver to assist children during boarding, riding, and exiting the bus. Follow established procedures to ensure children are never left unattended on the bus.
• Monitor children's behavior during transport to promote a safe and respectful environment, use positive redirection strategies when necessary.
• Provide activities on the bus such as playing games, singing songs, and reading books to the children, and engage in appropriate conversations.
• Maintain clear lines of communication with parents/guardians regarding transportation schedules and any issues that may arise. Report any transportation-related concerns to the Bus Staff Supervisor.
• Be familiar with emergency procedures to respond effectively in case of an emergency.
• Maintain accurate child information paperwork and attendance records. Report any incidents in a timely manner.
• Address challenges that may arise between staff and/or parents/guardians in a respectful manner while maintaining confidentiality.
• Actively participate in professional development and training opportunities, ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Perform Other Duties as Assigned

Benefits

• Part-time (≤29 hours/week) benefits include vision insurance, voluntary life insurance, and lump sum disability insurance.
• Staff in this position may be eligible to apply for unemployment benefits during periods of layoff, in accordance with state unemployment regulations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED