Event​/Field-Trip Driver; Short Bus & Special Routes

MSD of Shakamak
Position Title: Event/Field-Trip Driver (Short Bus & Special Routes)

Reports To: Director of Maintenance & Transportation

Employment Type: As Needed/Hourly – for special events, field trips, athletics, and special-education routes

The Event/Field-Trip Driver will safely and professionally operate smaller district-owned vehicles (short buses) for transportation of students and staff for special events, field trips, athletic competitions, special-education routes, and other non-regular daily routes. The driver supports the district’s commitment to student-centered excellence, community partnership, and fiscal & facility stewardship, ensuring the “Laker Pride” brand is upheld on and off the road.

• Operate assigned vehicle on scheduled special event trips, extra-curricular activities, field trips, special-education transport, athletics, and other non-daily bus routes, ensuring safety and compliance with all applicable laws, policies and procedures.
• Conduct and document pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections to identify and report maintenance issues.
• Manage student boarding, seating, and exiting procedures; ensure proper securement of students with mobility needs or specialized equipment.
• Monitor student behavior during transport, maintain order, intervene when needed, and report incidents to the Transportation Director.
• Follow approved route schedules, comply with time constraints, and adjust as directed while keeping communication with the Transportation Director.
• Maintain accurate records of trip mileage, vehicle usage, student counts, and any incident or behavior reports.
• Participate in required safety training, annual safety meetings and refresher courses (e.g., CPR/First Aid, safety training, evacuation drills).
• Maintain cleanliness and order of the vehicle interior after each trip; ensure equipment and seat belts/harnesses are functioning.
• Assist in special transportation assignments as needed (e.g., emergency evacuations, community partnership events).
• Adhere to district and state drug/alcohol testing policies, background screening, and driving‑record requirements.
• Serve as a positive ambassador for the district—model professional and remain student‑centered, showing pride and presence in every assignment.

• Valid Indiana driver’s license in good standing.
• Indiana Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements is preferred, but not required for all routes. Applicants with a valid Indiana driver’s license or Public Passenger Chauffeur’s license may also be considered for smaller vehicles or special event routes, pending district approval and compliance with Indiana Code § 20-27-8-1.
• Minimum 21 years of age.
• High School Diploma or GED (preferred).
• Excellent driving record, reliable, punctual, with strong safety awareness.
• Demonstrated ability to work with students of all ages and abilities—including those with special needs and/or mobility devices.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions; strong communication skills.
• Physical ability to assist students and safely perform required duties (lifting up to 50 lbs, assisting with wheelchair securement, evacuation procedures, etc.).
• Must pass district-required background check, drug/alcohol screening, DOT physical (as required for CDL or chauffeur license) and any required pre‑service training.
• Preferred: prior experience driving school‑or activity‑type vehicles, field trips, or transporting student groups.

• Work performed in a district vehicle for variable hours, including early mornings, late evenings, and occasional weekends or overnight trips.
• Work may involve weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow) while loading/unloading students.
• Split schedule common; flexibility required for special assignments.
• Must adhere to district transportation schedules and respond to assignments with limited advance notice.

Performance will be evaluated by the Director of Maintenance & Transportation via established district evaluation procedures—focusing on safety record, professionalism, student management, communication, and adherence to policies.