Purchased Transportation Driver

WIREGRASS REHABILITATION CENTER INC•Dothan, AL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Purchased Transportation Driver provides safe, reliable, and courteous transportation for WRC employees and consumers using passenger vans, buses, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The driver is responsible for safely operating assigned vehicles and accessibility equipment, assisting passengers as appropriate, properly securing wheelchairs and other mobility devices, and ensuring passengers are transported safely to and from authorized destinations. The driver is expected to provide respectful and professional assistance to individuals with disabilities while promoting passenger safety, dignity, and independence. Regular and dependable attendance is an essential function of this position.

Requirements

Must possess a valid driver’s license appropriate for the type of vehicle operated.
Must meet WRC requirements for designation as an authorized driver and meet applicable insurance requirements.
Must maintain any required licensure or certifications applicable to the position.
Must maintain an acceptable driving record.
Must successfully complete required training related to passenger transportation, vehicle safety, wheelchair securement, and operation of accessibility equipment.
Ability to give and follow verbal and written instructions.
Ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with passengers, consumers, staff, family members, caregivers, and community partners.
Ability to organize, plan, and follow assigned transportation routes and schedules.
Ability to safely operate passenger vans, buses, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Ability to safely operate wheelchair lifts, ramps, securement systems, and other accessibility equipment.
Ability to properly secure wheelchairs and other mobility devices in accordance with training and established safety procedures.
Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to passenger safety concerns and emergencies.
Ability to work cooperatively with others and resolve concerns professionally.
Ability to represent WRC professionally in interactions with passengers and the public.
Ability to work respectfully and effectively with individuals with disabilities and serve as an appropriate role model.
Must be physically and mentally capable of safely operating assigned vehicles and transportation equipment.
Ability to assist passengers entering and exiting vehicles, as appropriate.
Ability to safely operate wheelchair lifts, ramps, securement devices, seat belts, and other passenger safety equipment.
Ability to bend, reach, stoop, stand, and use both arms and hands as necessary to assist passengers and operate transportation equipment.
Ability to push or maneuver occupied and unoccupied wheelchairs as necessary to provide transportation assistance.
Ability to participate in required training sessions as scheduled.
Must adhere to the WRC Code of Ethical Conduct, demonstrating professionalism and ethical behavior in all interactions with consumers, staff, and the public.
Must maintain a safe, clean, and healthy environment within assigned vehicles.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED preferred, but not required.
Prior experience operating passenger vans, buses, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, or similar vehicles preferred.
Experience working with individuals with disabilities is preferred.

Responsibilities

Safely operate WRC passenger vans, buses, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles to transport consumers and other authorized passengers to and from designated locations.
Follow assigned transportation routes, schedules, pickup locations, and drop-off locations.
Assist passengers with safely entering and exiting vehicles, as appropriate and within the scope of assigned duties.
Safely operate wheelchair lifts, ramps, and other accessibility equipment according to manufacturer instructions, training, and WRC procedures.
Properly secure wheelchairs and other mobility devices using approved securement systems before the vehicle is placed in motion.
Ensure passengers use required seat belts, wheelchair occupant restraints, and other passenger safety equipment.
Provide appropriate assistance to passengers while promoting dignity, respect, and independence.
Conduct required pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections, including checks of tires, lights, mirrors, safety equipment, wheelchair lifts, ramps, and securement equipment.
Immediately report vehicle defects, damage, safety concerns, accidents, incidents, or malfunctioning accessibility equipment to the appropriate supervisor.
Ensure the vehicle is not operated when a condition exists that could compromise passenger or vehicle safety.
Maintain assigned vehicles in a clean, sanitary, and orderly condition.
Ensure that no passenger is left unattended in a vehicle at the completion of a route or trip by completing required vehicle checks.
Observe passengers during transportation and promptly report safety concerns, incidents, injuries, behavioral concerns, or other significant issues in accordance with WRC procedures.
Maintain appropriate confidentiality regarding passengers and consumer information.
Follow all applicable traffic laws, WRC safety policies, transportation procedures, and requirements governing the operation of assigned vehicles.
Refrain from using handheld electronic devices or engaging in other distracting activities while operating a vehicle.
Maintain required transportation records, mileage logs, inspection forms, incident reports, or other documentation as assigned.
Participate in required driver safety, passenger assistance, wheelchair securement, emergency response, and other applicable training.
Maintain professional and courteous interactions with passengers, families, caregivers, staff, community partners, and members of the public.
Immediately report accidents, citations, changes in driving status, or other circumstances that could affect authorization to operate WRC vehicles.