Head Start Bus Driver

Nisqually Indian Tribe•Olympia, WA

76d•$20 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for safely operating a school bus and other commercial vehicles on fixed routes while transporting children and/or adults safely and on schedule, and completing required forms and reports. The position maintains confidentiality, security, and accuracy of records; promotes positive employee, customer, and community relations; and requires strong written and verbal communication, outstanding customer service, regular attendance, and a neat, professional appearance. Later hours or weekend work may occasionally be required. The role includes carrying out vehicle inspections and maintenance reporting, transporting children and adults, teaching and enforcing passenger safety, coordinating routes and schedules, maintaining accurate passenger records, and completing reports and training. The driver must maintain required licenses and qualifications, comply with Head Start and Tribal policies, and follow applicable federal, state, and tribal safety requirements. This position does not supervise other employees.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Obtain and maintain First Aid and CPR cards within 30 days of employment.
Willingness to work non-traditional hours or days on occasion.
Meet all federal requirements for Head Start drivers under the 1310 final rule.
Commercial driver's license (CDL) with school bus endorsement.
Maintain a clean driving record while employed by Nisqually Indian Tribe.
Valid Washington State driver's license and a driving record meeting the minimum requirements of the Tribe's vehicle insurance provider.
Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check, including a State and National (FBI) criminal history background check before employment.
Ability to work with vulnerable populations, including adults and children.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, follow instructions, prepare accurate records and reports, and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to learn or use dispatching devices such as hands-free cell phones or radios and route-deviation coordination procedures.
Ability to safely operate transit coaches and vans and to resolve customer complaints courteously and tactfully.
Ability to successfully complete mandatory training.
Ability to physically perform the job, including moderate lifting, bending, crouching, assisting passengers on and off the vehicle, and sitting for long periods.
Regular attendance and a neat, well-groomed professional appearance are required.
This position will not be filled by an applicant with any felonious offense or two or more misdemeanor offenses under Federal, State, or Tribal law involving crimes of violence; sexual assault, molestation, exploitation, contact, or prostitution; crimes against persons; or offenses committed against children.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children with disabilities and/or behavioral and emotional challenges.
Knowledge of the Nisqually Indian Tribe's history, customs, and traditions, and ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
Experience working with Federally Recognized Tribes.

Responsibilities

Perform daily pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections under applicable Federal, State, and Tribal guidelines; determine whether vehicles are safe to operate, document deficiencies, and submit maintenance requests.
Teach children safe riding practices, boarding and exiting procedures, street-crossing safety, vehicle danger zones, and emergency evacuation procedures.
Confirm daily schedules with the coordinator or supervisor and report schedule changes; notify the coordinator and director when safety, weather, construction, or emergencies require alternate routes or stops.
Fuel vehicles as needed to ensure sufficient fuel for scheduled routes.
Drive buses to scheduled pick-up and drop-off stops while obeying traffic laws and following safe loading and unloading procedures.
Contact the center in the event of a vehicle breakdown.
Ensure children are seated, buckled, and behaving safely; determine when behavior requires further action.
Interact professionally and courteously with children, parents, school officials, and the public.
Complete and submit bus, time, incident, accident, and other required reports and forms.
Attend required safety, pre-service, and in-service training, as well as monthly staff and management team meetings.
Keep the bus clean and keep aisleways clear for emergency access.
Conduct passenger evacuation drills in compliance with state and federal requirements.
Maintain a valid commercial driver's license and promptly report changes in license status that may affect qualifications or safe vehicle operation.
Assist the coordinator with route planning and maintain accurate pick-up and drop-off information, including addresses and phone numbers.
Ensure routes are efficient, remain within service boundaries, and do not exceed one hour.
Coordinate transportation for families attending scheduled special events.
Maintain current child rosters and authorized-release lists, including emergency alternates, and ensure no child is left behind in a classroom or vehicle.
Stay current on Head Start Performance Standards, Head Start Policies and Procedures, and Tribal Personnel Policies.
Perform other duties as assigned.