School Bus Dispatcher

Overview

School Bus Dispatcher

This posting supports Cedar Springs Public Schools with route assignment opportunities in Cedar Springs, MI. Flexible scheduling options are available, subject to operational needs. Paid training is provided and includes preparation for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). No prior CDL experience is required. Benefits packages are available to eligible employees. Employer contribution levels vary based on established qualifying factors. A 401(k) retirement plan is available after completion of one year of service, contingent upon satisfying all other eligibility requirements.

Employees play a vital role in contributing to a positive and meaningful experience for students/passengers every day.

Safely and reliably transport and assist students and other school district passengers to and from school, educational or sporting events, community-based programs and other special activities.

• Meet all general qualifications for employment.
• Meet company and state standards for driving record check.
• Meet company, state, and school district standards for criminal history check.
• Meet Federal DOT guidelines and physical examination requirements.
• Pass drug and alcohol screening as established by the company.
• Successfully pass Dean Transportation School Bus Driver Training Program, including:
  • Classroom instruction
  • Behind the wheel instruction
  • Written and driving skills test
• Meet Michigan School Bus Driver Certification Requirements, including:
  • Minimum hours of instruction
  • Satisfactorily pass knowledge examination
• Meet local, county, and state standards for driving skills test.
• Meet state requirements for appropriate commercial vehicle licensing.

• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of your assigned vehicle as required.
• Use established routes and designated bus stops.
• Conduct emergency evacuation drills as required.
• Instruct passenger riders regarding safety.
• Drive defensively under varying traffic conditions and inclement weather.
• Drive with safety of passengers as first priority.
• Establish favorable working relationships with other drivers, office and maintenance personnel, bus attendants and monitors, passengers, parents, teachers, principals, and total school or program staff.
• Attend training sessions, annual in-service, and workshops conducted by the company or approved agencies to support self-improvement.

• Operate all vehicle types used to transport passengers.
• Identify geographic service area of the school district and routes.
• Demonstrate knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal rules and regulations.
• Demonstrate knowledge of state laws and local ordinances.
• Manage interactions with student passengers exhibiting exuberant behavior.
• Administer disciplinary procedures in line with company policies.
• Be alert and exercise good judgment concerning emergencies and day-to-day operations.
• Conduct bus evacuation drills as required by company management.
• Keep accurate records and reports, submit legibly and on time.
• Present oneself as a professional Dean Transportation staff member at all times.
• Operate all vehicle lifts as prescribed in company policy.
• Secure all equipment required for each passenger as prescribed in company policy.
• Be able to lift, store, and disassemble/assemble wheelchairs of up to 40 pounds and/or other ambulatory devices as required by the passenger.

• Driving performance evaluations are conducted continuously as part of safety training.
• Drivers may be subjected to customized driving evaluations when there is a specific concern or report of improper driving.

School Bus Drivers perform various physical tasks that may involve lifting, pulling, bending, and carrying heavy objects. Examples include pre-trip engine checks, operating doors, assisting passengers, and handling equipment as required.