Transportation Safety Inspector and Trainer

Location:

Warehouse Operations & Mainten

Department:
Transportation

Area:
District Wide

Contract Months: 12

Salary Range: $45,000.00 – $55,000.00

Academic Year: 25-26

The Safety Inspector and Trainer serves a critical leadership role within Houston ISD’s Transportation Department by ensuring compliance with all safety regulations and promoting a culture of excellence and vigilance in student transportation. This position is responsible for conducting vehicle inspections, evaluating driver performance, and delivering high-quality training programs for bus drivers, attendants, and transportation staff.

Aligned with HISD’s commitment to a high-performance culture and student-centered service, the Safety Inspector and Trainer works in collaboration with transportation leadership to implement effective safety practices, improve operational efficiency, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism, reliability, and student protection.

1. Conduct regular, comprehensive safety inspections of school buses, service vehicles, and equipment to ensure strict compliance with local, state, and federal transportation safety standards.

2. Ensure full adherence to transportation safety regulations, including those from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Department of Transportation (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). OSHA, and applicable state education agencies.

3. Investigate accidents, incidents, and safety violations, prepare detailed incident reports, and serve as an active member of the Accident Review Board, contributing to a culture of continuous safety improvement.

4. Serve as the lead instructor for state-mandated and specialized safety training programs, including:

• Texas Education Agency (TEA) School Bus Driver Certification and Recertification
• Special Needs Transportation protocols
• Operation Lifesaver (rail safety)
• School Bus Watch (anti-terrorism awareness)
• Kid Safe (car seat safety)
• National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course

5. Monitor driver performance and vehicle operation through the use of GPS systems, telematics, and onboard camera footage, addressing unsafe behaviors with corrective action and retraining when needed.

6. Review and update transportation safety policies, standard operating procedures, and emergency response protocols to ensure alignment with HISD expectations and current regulations.

7. Develop and deliver engaging, skills-based safety training programs for transportation staff, including school bus drivers and attendants. Provide instruction on emergency procedures, safe driving, student management, and regulatory compliance.

8. Lead hands-on and classroom-based training sessions, including pre- and post-trip inspections, defensive driving techniques, student conduct management, and behind-the-wheel evaluations. Review motor vehicle records quarterly to assess ongoing driver eligibility.

9. Administer specialized training on the use of wheelchair lifts, child restraint systems, and execution of emergency evacuation drills for students with diverse transportation needs.

10. Maintain accurate and auditable training records, ensuring all personnel meet required certification and continuing education milestones.

11. Provide post-incident retraining and coordinate corrective action plans for drivers involved in collisions or safety incidents, ensuring alignment with district performance expectations.

12. Maintain comprehensive documentation related to safety inspections, training sessions, accident investigations, and compliance reviews.

13. Collaborate with fleet operations staff to ensure all vehicles are equipped with required safety tools, supplies, and emergency equipment.

14. Perform other job-related duties as assigned, contributing to HISD’s mission of providing safe, reliable, and student-focused transportation services.

Bachelor's Degree

Applicants who do not meet these education qualifications may be considered if they have a unique combination of education and work experiences that indicate potential for success in this role.

3 to 5 years of experience in school transportation,…