CDL Route Driver

Palmer Bus Service of St. Cloud • Saint Cloud, MN

2d

About The Position

The CDL Route Driver safely transports students to and from school, as well as students and school-district-authorized passengers on field trips, activities, and other outings. The driver reports to the bus garage before scheduled departure, checks with the dispatcher for changes to duties or passengers, and completes a DOT-required pre-trip inspection and radio check before beginning each route. The position requires safe operation and upkeep of the bus, enforcement of passenger safety rules, and communication with the Site Manager about student conduct, incidents, accidents, and maintenance needs.

Drivers pick up students at assigned stops, ensure they board and are seated safely, and check the bus upon returning to the garage to ensure no child remains aboard. They transport passengers to assigned trips and activities, maintain fuel levels, and clean the bus interior after trips, as needed, or at least weekly. The driver may also attend meetings and training and perform related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Possess, or be able to obtain, a valid Minnesota Commercial Driver’s License with passenger, school bus, and air brake endorsements, and maintain the required license and endorsements once acquired.
• Know and follow safety practices and procedures.
• Understand emergency evacuation techniques.
• Administer basic first aid and/or be CPR certified if required by the district.
• Know relevant health standards and hazards, state regulations and laws concerning school bus operation, and child behavior.
• Adhere to safety practices.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records.
• Operate equipment used to transport students with special needs.
• Be reliable and able to work independently.
• Demonstrate patience and firmness when dealing with children.
• Be attentive to detail, tactful, and courteous, and establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Communicate with diverse groups and maintain confidentiality.
• Meet the stated physical demands: approximately 90% sitting, 5% walking, and 5% standing.

Responsibilities

• Report to the bus garage before scheduled departure and check with the dispatcher for changes to duties or student passengers.
• Perform the DOT-required pre-trip inspection and complete a radio check before each route.
• Pick up students at assigned stops and ensure they board safely and are seated before proceeding.
• Enforce passenger discipline and safety rules; report noncompliance and serious incidents to the Site Manager.
• Safely operate the bus in compliance with traffic laws and state and federal transit regulations, taking road and stop conditions into account.
• Check the bus upon arrival at the garage to ensure no child has been left aboard.
• Transport students and authorized school-district passengers to field trips, sporting events, and other activities.
• Report accidents immediately to the Site Manager and promptly complete accident reports.
• Maintain the bus by keeping fuel above half a tank or refueling after a trip, cleaning the interior, and alerting office staff to maintenance needs.
• Attend meetings, in-service training, and workshops as needed to gather information required for the job.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed