Bus Driver

Job Goal

Responsible for driving a school bus to provide safe, efficient, and on‑time transportation of CMS students to and from assigned schools on a daily basis.

• Drive the school bus to transport students to and from assigned schools in compliance with all federal, state and local laws, policies, regulations, administrative codes, and transportation operation guidelines.
• Obey all traffic laws and observe mandatory safety regulations for school buses, including clearing the bus and evacuating students quickly in the event of an emergency.
• Maintain safe driver standards and applicable physical and dexterity standards.
• Maintain knowledge of assigned bus routes and students assigned to the bus.
• Maintain discipline when students are on the bus; report undisciplined students to the proper authority.
• Discharge students only at authorized school or bus stop locations.
• Transport only authorized students.
• Identify and report changes in run directions and routes to the transportation department.
• Perform pre‑ and post‑inspection activities, including mechanical defects, fuel levels, items left on the bus, vandalism to the interior, and ensure all students have exited by the end of the route.
• Exercise responsible leadership during school field trips, in or out of the district.
• Report all accidents and participate in or meet all post‑accident drug‑testing requirements.
• Enforce regulations against smoking, eating and drinking on the bus.
• Keep the bus clean and free of any items that may present a safety problem.
• Fuel the bus if required by the parking location.
• Secure the assigned bus before leaving the vehicle at the conclusion of a run or route, including proper parking, visual inspection for damage, and securing all windows and doors to protect the interior.
• Have prompt, regular attendance in‑person and be available to work on‑site during regular business hours and when directed by the area manager.
• Establish and maintain effective communications and working relationships with bus monitors, district personnel, school officials, and parents.
• Keep up to date on current technology used by CMS, as appropriate for the job.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

None

• Ability to adhere to safety practices.
• Ability to read, interpret and follow printed and electronic maps, route descriptions and directions.
• Ability to operate district vehicles, fire extinguisher, two‑way radio and standard office equipment.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records.
• Understanding of pre‑ and post‑trip procedures.
• Ability to meet physical standards prescribed by the NC DMV.
• Knowledge of first aid, health standards and hazards, including the ability to administer first aid.
• Understanding of safe driving practices and safety procedures.
• Ability and knowledge to utilize wheelchairs, tie‑downs, child safety seats, lifts, etc. (by assignment).
• Ability to communicate with students and adults both written and verbally.
• Operating knowledge of computer programs, including email.

• At least 6 months driving experience as a licensed operator of a motor vehicle. (No previous bus driving experience required.)
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the position.

• Must have a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
• Must possess or have the ability to obtain a valid Class B North Carolina commercial driver’s licence before receiving a bus route.
• Must possess or have the ability to obtain a valid school bus driver certification issued by the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV).
• Commercial driver licence (CDL) holders and applicants must meet the medical qualifications set by the NC General Statute Medical Qualifications Standards applicable to Commercial Drivers.
• Must maintain an acceptable driving record as outlined by North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles as a legal requirement for issuance of a school bus driver certification.

• First aid certification.