Cold Weather Shelter Van Driver - Lynnwood

Volunteers Of America Western Washington•Lynnwood, WA

7d•$22 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Cold Weather Shelter Van Driver provides safe, reliable transportation for guests of the South Snohomish County Extreme Weather Shelter in Lynnwood. Under the direction of the Shelter Services Program Manager, the driver transports guests between designated pickup locations and the shelter during weather-related activations. This on-call position includes vehicle safety checks, passenger assistance, route coordination, transportation documentation, and communication with the van greeter and shelter staff. Primary routes include Lynnwood City Hall, James Village, and Bank of America at Highway 99 and 173rd Street, with transportation to and from Maple Park Church. Routes, pickup locations, and schedules may change based on shelter operations, weather conditions, and partner guidance. Typical cold-weather assignments begin around 6:30 p.m. on most days and 8:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, with morning returns beginning around 6:30 a.m.

Requirements

Commitment to serving people experiencing homelessness, including individuals experiencing mental health concerns, substance use, trauma, and disability.
Valid Washington State driver’s license held for at least six months and an acceptable driving record.
Ability to complete required agency driver training, meet agency insurance eligibility requirements, and obtain and maintain approval as an agency driver.
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
Ability to operate a passenger van safely in darkness, cold, rain, icy conditions, and reduced visibility, following agency safety procedures.
Safe, defensive driving skills, familiarity with local streets, and ability to follow designated routes and identify safe alternate routes.
Availability for on-call assignments, evening pickups, and early morning returns during weather activations, including assignments with limited notice.
Reliable attendance, punctuality, and ability to remain awake and alert throughout transportation assignments.
Strong communication, problem-solving, and de-escalation skills; ability to maintain professional boundaries.
Ability to communicate clearly by phone or radio and complete accurate trip, mileage, and incident documentation.
Ability to assist passengers entering and exiting the vehicle, including guests with mobility limitations, and assist with belongings.

Responsibilities

Respond to shelter activation notices and report for transportation assignments as scheduled.
Conduct required vehicle safety checks before use and promptly report mechanical problems, damage, maintenance needs, or unsafe conditions.
Conduct evening pickups and morning returns along designated routes and follow approved schedules and communication procedures.
Monitor road and weather conditions, communicate delays or unsafe conditions, and follow agency direction regarding route changes or suspension of transportation.
Coordinate with the van greeter to assist guests with safe loading, seating, seatbelt use, belongings, and unloading.
Follow vehicle capacity limits and keep aisles, exits, and the driver’s area clear.
Maintain a safe, respectful, and professional environment that supports guest dignity and access to shelter.
Respond to medical, behavioral, and passenger-safety concerns using de-escalation, emergency procedures, and appropriate outside resources.
Communicate with the van greeter and shelter staff about passenger capacity, additional trips, delays, and guest support needs.
Complete trip, mileage, passenger, and incident documentation accurately, promptly, and confidentially.
Maintain a clean and orderly vehicle and follow vehicle fueling, parking, key-control, and security procedures.
Maintain guest and program confidentiality.