Paratransit Operator

The purpose of this position is to operate a specialized van with wheelchair lift to transport paratransit passengers in a safe, timely, and courteous manner in accordance with applicable laws, as well as City rules and policies. Properly secure passengers and mobility devices to the vehicle as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Conduct and document a thorough vehicle inspection.

Utilize onboard tablet and software to maintain accurate daily records reflecting passenger activity. Collect accurate fares. Assist passengers in and out of the vehicle. Maintain, review, and update daily schedules.

• Operate a specialized vehicle with wheelchair lift/ramp to transport paratransit passengers in a safe, proficient manner;
• Comply with all City, county, state, and federal traffic rules, regulations, laws and procedures for the safe operation of a transit vehicle;
• Provide assistance with alighting, including assisting persons onto and off the wheelchair lift, operating lift/ramp, and securing wheelchairs and mobility devices using seatbelt securement for transport as required;
• Provide information in a courteous manner to passengers regarding routes, schedules, transfers, and fares;
• Monitor passengers during transport and assist passengers as needed to ensure a safely completed trip;
• Assist passengers with disabilities in accessing transportation services as required by local, state, and federal regulations, including regulations established by the ADA;
• Perform passenger trips according to a regularly changing schedule and in a manner that provides for maximum possible passenger safety while maintaining service efficiency;
• Collect and maintain an accurate record of passenger fares;
• Maintain accurate daily records reflecting passenger activity;
• Ensure the cleanliness of the interior and seating area for passengers; and
• Other duties as assigned.

• High School diploma or GED and
• At least six months of driving experience

• The safe operation of a public transit bus, including complete familiarization with its systems and safety features.
• Traffic rules, regulations and laws, and procedures for the safe operation of a transit bus, and the ability to operate a transit bus in a safe manner.
• Geography and roadways of an assigned route and of the entire municipality.

• Operate a motor vehicle safely.
• Operate vehicle radio, Mobile Data Terminal (MDT), AVL system, and fare collection systems.
• Operate and/or utilize all standard safety equipment installed in transit passenger vehicles, including safety harnesses, restraints, and any other equipment required by federal, state, or local regulations.
• Assist customers boarding or alighting from vehicles, without lifting persons or wheelchair devices, and lift or carry customer items on and off vehicles as requested.
• Operate a wheelchair ramp and assist passengers with disabilities.
• Push, pull, and turn passengers in a wheelchair with a combined weight of 800 lbs. up/down wheelchair ramps, on/off vehicle lifts, and across various surfaces as needed.
• Maintain effective working relationships and deal courteously and effectively with the public, fellow employees, and supervisors.
• Handle confrontational passengers effectively.
• Be patient and allow customers to take their time.
• Give customers with disabilities the same information and choices given to other passengers.
• Conduct and document a thorough vehicle inspection.
• Read, understand, and follow rules and regulations, maps and schedules, vehicle operating procedures, vehicle laws, and written and oral instructions.
• Be able to work without immediate supervision in the field after completion of the initial training period.
• Prepare accident and incident reports.
• Maintain simple records and make basic math calculations.
• Be punctual and maintain regular, predictable attendance.
• Be available to work a flexible schedule that includes nights, weekends, holidays, working split shifts, and overtime.

Valid North Carolina Class C Drive'r License