Temporary Van Driver, CAU

Cornell University•Ithaca, NY

16h•Onsite

About The Position

Cornell University is seeking candidates for the position of Temporary Experience Navigator (Van Driver) within the Alumni Affairs and Development division, based in Ithaca, NY. This role is part of the Cornell’s Adult University (CAU) 2-week summer program. The Temporary Experience Navigator (Van Driver) will serve as a guide for CAU Summer participants, ensuring their smooth and enjoyable transportation to and from daily activities. This includes providing transportation for dorm residents to classes and evening activities, as well as for participants to and from field trips, while managing all logistics, safety measures, and comfort details. Drivers are expected to be conversational, professional, proactive, and vigilant in ensuring participant safety and inclusion.

Requirements

Comprehensive training for each position will be provided.
Must have a valid U.S. driver’s license with a clean driving record
Ability to advocate for individuals from a broad range of backgrounds.
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members
Reliable, punctual, and safety-conscious—takes responsibility for ensuring seamless transport operations.
Personable and professional—engages guests in a welcoming and appropriate manner.
Proactive and detail-oriented—ensures every transport need (gas, supplies, step stool, lunches) is accounted for before departure.
Comfortable driving passengers in a van setting, following all safety and program guidelines.
Attentive and customer-service focused—ensures every participant gets where they need to be, comfortably and on time.
Hold a valid U.S. driver’s license and meet all requirements for operating a CAU program vehicle.

Responsibilities

Drive CAU participants to and from morning classes, field trips, and evening activities on campus.
Ensure only dorm residents board the campus shuttle and that all course participants receive field trip transport (both to and from the site).
Keep a watchful eye to confirm no participant is left behind at any location.
Ensure vans are gassed up and well-maintained for daily use.
Confirm that all essential items are on board, including: Step stool for easy entry/exit, Boxed lunches & refreshments when required for field trips, Maps, schedules, or any required documentation for smooth navigation.
Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming van environment for all passengers.
Foster a pleasant and engaging ride experience by being friendly, conversational, and appropriate.
Offer basic guidance about CAU events or answer guest questions as needed.
Be attuned to passenger comfort, ensuring music/noise levels and climate settings accommodate guest preferences.
Monitor passenger lists to ensure all required individuals are transported for field trips and return trips.
Adhere to CAU transport policies regarding eligibility for shuttle services.
Report any concerns, logistical issues, or unexpected changes to the CAU team.
Complete mandatory van training in advance of the program, even if previously trained.
Follow all safety protocols, driving regulations, and program guidelines at all times.