Driver - Transit / School Bus

Overall Job Objective

Summary

Under general supervision, the incumbent will operate both a school bus and a transit vehicle, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of community members and students to their designated destinations. The incumbent will be responsible for providing excellent customer service, maintaining clear communication with passengers, and ensuring the safety of all individuals while in transit. The role may involve driving a transit vehicle with up to 14 passengers on fixed routes or Demand Response within the Community and surrounding areas, as well as transporting students to and from school and school activities in a 77 passenger School Bus. Driver work shifts may vary depending on transportation needs and may include some evenings, early mornings, weekend shifts and split shifts.

Minimum Qualifications

The ideal candidate must have a High School diploma or GED equivalent, with at least one year of experience as a school bus driver or in another CDL-required position preferred. A valid Arizona Commercial Drivers License (CDL) with both School Bus and Passenger Endorsements is required. The driver must also meet the requirements to hold a DPS (Department of Public Safety) certification. The candidate must be at least 21 years of age and meet the Communitys insurance carrier requirements. The ability to lift up to 50 pounds is essential. Additionally, the candidate must obtain First Aid/CPR certification within 60 days of hire and be subject to alcohol and controlled substance testing in accordance with Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations. The position also requires the successful completion of an extensive background check. Ideal candidate will be able to speak the Oodham language fluently.

Examples of Duties

• Safely operates a 77-passenger school bus as well as transit vehicles on assigned routes, adhering to time schedules and traffic laws.
• Ensures the safety of all passengers by monitoring safety belt use, child safety seats, and other safety protocols, and by assisting elderly or special needs passengers with entry and exit from the vehicle, including use of wheelchair lifts when necessary.
• Performs daily pre- and post-trip inspections of vehicles and completing inspection paper work. Ensuring vehicle is in safe operating condition, and report any malfunctions or required repairs to the supervisor.
• Maintains accurate records of vehicle use, including mileage, fuel consumption, and routine maintenance needs.
• Completes incident reports as needed.
• Performs daily cleaning and fueling of both the interior and exterior of vehicles to ensure they are well-maintained and in optimal operating condition.

• Logs and submits daily route manifests, including all stops, incidents, and accident reports, and report any vehicle malfunctions or safety issues.
• Attends and participates in scheduled staff meetings, workshops, and required in-service training (e.g., CPR, First Aid, DPS school bus driver certification) to maintain necessary certifications.
• Complies with tribal, state, and federal laws, as well as safety regulations, in all aspects of transportation operations.
• Maintains strict confidentiality regarding children, families, and any sensitive information encountered during the course of duties.
• Reports any suspected abuse, neglect, or maltreatment, as well as other social service-related incidents, to the Transit Manager.
• Provides basic emergency medical care when necessary and respond appropriately to any emergency situations.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Other Requirements

• Knowledge of state, tribal, municipal, and federal traffic laws, as well as regulations governing the operation of commercial transportation vehicles in Arizona.
• Knowledge of vehicle maintenance requirements and the ability to perform routine maintenance and identify necessary repairs.
• Knowledge of the geographical area surrounding the Ak-Chin Indian Community and local neighborhoods.
• Knowledge of basic emergency medical care practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of and ability to safely transport special needs or elderly passengers.
• Skill in operating assigned vehicles safely and efficiently under various conditions.
• Skill in providing excellent customer service with the ability to interact courteously and professionally with passengers.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining positive working relationships with community members, students, coworkers, and the public by use of effective communication skills.
• Ability to lift and assist passengers, including those who are elderly or wheelchair-bound, with a capacity to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability utilizing computer applications, related software, and radio communication equipment.
• Ability to drive safely in heavy traffic and navigate challenging road conditions when necessary.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions, policies, and procedures.

• Ability to speak in the Oodham language is preferred.