Head Start Bus Driver

This position has regular contact with or control over Indian Children and Vulnerable Adults. In compliance with Federal Law, this position will not be filled by an applicant with any felonious offense or any of two or more misdemeanor offenses under Federal, State, or Tribal law involving crimes of violence; sexual assault, molestation, exploitation, contact, or prostitution; crimes against persons; or offenses committed against children.

GENERAL SUMMARY

Responsible for the safe operation of a school bus and other commercial vehicles, over fixed routes while transporting children and/or adults safely and on schedule, completing forms and reports as required.

This position ensures confidentiality, security, and accuracy of records, and promotes positive employee, customer, and community relations. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required and outstanding customer service to fellow employees, customers, vendors, etc. is expected. Regular attendance is required, and on occasion, later hours or weekend time may be required with project deadlines and a neat well-groomed professional appearance is essential at all times.

Primary responsibilities are the basic job duties that an employee must be able to perform. This list of responsibilities is intended to be representative of the duties performed within this classification. The omission of a function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed if such duties relate to the position.

• Perform daily pre- and post-trip inspections as directed under Federal, State and Tribal guidelines. Determines if vehicle is acceptable to drive based on inspections. Records all deficiencies in a timely manner and completing maintenance request forms.
• Ensure children who receive vehicle and services are taught safe riding practice, safety procedures for boarding and leaving the vehicle, and crossing the street too and from the vehicle.
• Confirm daily schedule with coordinator/supervisor in person, noting any changes to regular pick-up or drop-off schedules. Alerts coordinator and director when alternative routes or stops are necessary because of safety, inclement weather, construction, or emergencies.
• Fuel vehicle when necessary, making sure enough fuel is onboard for the next scheduled route.
• Drive buses to scheduled pick-up and drop-off stops, while obeying all traffic laws.
• Ensures safe load and unload procedures are always followed.
• The driver will contact the center in the event of a breakdown.
• Ensure children are seated, buckled up, and always demonstrate safe behavior on the bus. Determines when a child's behavior warrants further action.
• Exhibits professional courteous behavior in all interactions with children, parents, school officials, and the public.
• Completes and submits bus and time reports as required.
• Attend all required safety, pre-services, and in-service training during the school year.
• Ensure the bus is always clean and the aisleways are kept clear for safe access to emergency exits.
• Conduct periodic passenger evacuation drills in full compliance with all state and federal requirements.
• Train children to recognize danger zones around the vehicle and are taught emergency evacuation procedures.
• Complete various other required forms, including incident/accident reports as required by Tribal policy.
• Always maintain a valid commercial driver's license and immediately reports any changes in license status which could infringe on qualification or safe operation of required vehicle class license.
• Assist in the routing efforts with the coordinator for scheduled pick-up and drop-off addresses, ensuring that all information (i.e., addresses, phone numbers) is accurate and up to date.
• Ensure that routes are no longer than 1 hour, stay within service boundaries and are efficient.
• Coordinate transportation for families attending scheduled special events.
• Ensure up-to-date child rosters and lists of the adults each child is authorized to be released to, including alternates, in case of emergency, are maintained and no child is left behind, either in the classroom or on the vehicle at the end of the route.
• Attend all monthly staff meetings and management team meetings.
• Responsible for keeping current on all Head Start Performance Standards, Head Start Policies & Procedures and Tribal Personnel Policies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or Equivalent.
• Must obtain/maintain First Aid and CPR cards within 30 days of employment.
• Willing to work non-traditional work hours/days on occasion.
• The driver must meet all federal requirements for Head Start Drivers under the 1310 final rule.
• Commercial driver's license (CDL) with school bus endorsement required.
• Maintain a clean driving record while employed by Nisqually Indian Tribe.
• Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's license and maintain a driving record that meets the minimum requirements established by Nisqually Indian Tribes…