Van Driver

Portland Public School District•Portland, MI

About The Position

Portland Public Schools is hiring School Van Drivers to provide safe, reliable, and efficient transportation for students to and from school, educational and athletic events, and other District-sponsored activities. The role is intended for dependable, responsible, student-centered individuals committed to student safety and working with children. Training will be provided to qualified candidates who are passionate about working with students and providing safe, dependable transportation. The driver operates a District-owned passenger van on assigned routes and for District-sponsored activities, follows schedules and authorized pickup and drop-off locations, and complies with traffic laws, District policies, and student transportation safety regulations. The driver supervises students during transport, ensures they are safely secured, maintains vehicle cleanliness and condition, and keeps required transportation records. The position reports to the Director of Operations. The calendar is as per the District and Ionia ISD calendar, and compensation is in accordance with the Transportation Agreement.

Requirements

Must possess or be willing to obtain a valid Michigan chauffeur driver's license and maintain a safe driving record.
Must meet all applicable State of Michigan and Portland Public Schools requirements for transporting students in a school van.
Must successfully complete all required background checks, training, and certifications.
Must meet applicable medical and physical requirements for operating a school transportation vehicle.
Must demonstrate safe driving practices and knowledge of traffic laws and transportation safety procedures.
Must possess strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
Must demonstrate patience, professionalism, and sound judgment when working with students.

Responsibilities

Safely operate a District-owned passenger van to transport students along assigned routes and to District-sponsored activities.
Follow established transportation schedules, routes, and authorized pickup and drop-off locations.
Comply with applicable traffic laws, District policies, and student transportation safety regulations.
Ensure students enter and exit the vehicle safely and are properly secured using appropriate seat belts or required safety restraints.
Maintain a safe, positive, respectful, and orderly environment for students during transportation.
Provide appropriate student supervision and report behavioral concerns to the proper District personnel.
Communicate with the Transportation Department regarding route changes, delays, student concerns, or vehicle maintenance needs.
Maintain accurate transportation records and complete required reports in a timely manner.
Immediately report accidents, injuries, mechanical concerns, and other safety-related incidents.
Maintain the cleanliness and general condition of the assigned vehicle.
Demonstrate professionalism, confidentiality, and responsible judgment when interacting with students, families, staff, and community members.
Perform other transportation-related duties as assigned.