Bus Driver Trainee

Job Description

JEFFERSON COUNTY SCHOOLS

Position: Bus Driver Trainee

Immediate Supervisor: Director of Transportation

Employment Term: 8 Weeks

Salary: Stipend of $3,500.00 ($437.50 per week)

Evaluation: Performance will be evaluated by the Director of Transportation/Transportation Supervisor and Bus Driver Trainer in accordance with WV State Code §18A-2-12, WV State Board Policy 5310, and JCBOE Evaluation Policy

Bus Driver Trainee

Summary:

Learn the information required to complete and pass the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) examination and WVDE Bus Operators test and certification. Understand and apply the standards and requirements of WVDE and WVDOT for operating a school bus, and develop safe driving practices to ensure student safety.

Bus Driver Trainees perform duties in accordance with traffic regulations and county policies. Candidates should have a reliable schedule, excellent customer service skills, a good driving record, and commit to a minimum of three years of employment as a Bus Operator after completion.

• Work toward obtaining a WV CDL license with passenger, school bus, and passenger endorsements
• Complete the WV School Bus Safety Program and pass required online and skill tests
• Pass a physical examination from a Medical Examiner as defined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and complete drug and alcohol screening
• Complete valid CPR and First Aid certification
• Develop excellent driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws and regulations
• Acquire a working understanding of the JCS Bus Operator role, including road navigation, time schedules, student management, safety procedures, bus inspections, and compliance by observing experienced bus operators

• Pass a drug and alcohol test
• Meet all requirements outlined in WV State Board of Education Policy 4336
• Be able to climb in and out of bus to check engine compartment
• Pass the School Bus Driver Physical Performance Exam and other approved physical exam
• Be 21 years of age or older
• Have at least three years of driving experience as a licensed operator of any vehicle
• Maintain a clean driving record with no accidents or violations
• Exercise good judgment
• Communicate effectively and professionally with parents, dispatch, students, and staff
• Pay attention to details to ensure safety checks and student supervision are performed properly
• Exhibit patience and understanding while driving in high traffic, long trips, varied weather, and while dealing with different student needs and behaviors
• Understand the needs of students with special needs

Successful candidates must follow the background check procedures pursuant to WV Code §18-5-15c. Applicants must complete the entire application, provide supervisory references, and participate in interviews. Failure to provide references or required documentation, or negative references, may negatively impact a candidate's qualifications. Applicants who have been dismissed or had contracts non-renewed for cause are not eligible for consideration.

Employees may be required to reach, stand, walk, lift, grasp, write, talk, hear, see, and perform repetitive motions. They may lift and/or move at least 50 pounds (100 pounds minimum on a special education bus).

Specific vision abilities include distant vision to see road signs and detect hazards, near vision to monitor instruments and passengers, and ability to focus.

Work can involve exposure to extreme temperatures (below freezing to 80°F+) and moderate to loud noise (60-90 dB). Schedules include a five-day work week with early start times (4:45 a.m.) to late finish (5:30 p.m.). The job may be stressful and fatiguing due to heavy traffic and continuous interaction with colleagues, the public, vendors, school staff, and students.

The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is not an exhaustive list of duties. Additional duties may be assigned by the Superintendent or designee.

Jefferson County Schools is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply.