Paratransit (STRIDE) Driver- Part Time

Are you looking to make a difference in the lives of people in the Duluth-Superior area? The Duluth Transit Authority is hiring a part time driver for our paratransit department-STRIDE (Special Transit RIDE). The DTA is an award-winning transit agency that provides safe, convenient, and affordable public transit service (fixed route and paratransit) within the Twin Ports of Duluth, MN and Superior, WI. We transport just under 3 million passengers annually by way of our 75 bus fleet and we employ approximately 185 team members. STRIDE is dial-a-ride transportation service for qualified individuals with disabilities in the Twin Ports. It operates in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Candidates need to be at least 21 years of age, possess a valid Driver's License and must be able to offer outstanding service to all customers, including those who are elderly and/or have disabilities. Training is ongoing, and approximately 4- 6 weeks in length. This is paid, on-the-job training. You just need a valid standard Class D driver's license. Previous driving experience is helpful, but not required.

The pay is $26.00 per hour.  This is a union position and monthly dues are required. We are looking for people who can work at least 20 hours per week, and you are able to work up to 32 hours per week.  You must be available to work weekends-but you will not be required to work every weekend, or both days on a weekend, unless you wanted to. We have available shifts all 7 days a week and schedules can rotate from one week to the next. Start times could be as early as 5:00am and end as late as 10:00pm. However, late night shifts are less frequent, but they do occur and are available. The schedules are based on rider requests. A more typical start time is somewhere between 6:30-9:00am, and a more typical end time is from 5:00pm-7:00pm. Your total hours per day can vary- we have shifts that can be anywhere from 6-9 hours long, based on your preferences.

DTA is An Equal Opportunity Employer

DTA is a Drug-Free Workplace

JOB PURPOSE:

The Paratransit (STRIDE) Bus Operator operates DTA paratransit (STRIDE) buses in a manner that is safe, provides for a comfortable ride and maintains scheduled trips. The Paratransit Bus Operator also provides customers with courteous and attentive service.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operates DTA paratransit (STRIDE) buses in a manner that exemplifies standard company defensive driving principles and practices, is safety conscious and follows all company safety policies and procedures. Operates the bus in a manner that gives customers a smooth and comfortable ride. Adheres to all traffic regulations. Adjusts personal driving habits to accommodate changing conditions, (i.e., weather conditions, detours, route changes, etc.).
• Performs pre-trip safety and preventative maintenance inspection and reports the condition of the bus. Performs periodic inspections of the bus while in service and reports any noted defects and/or damage. Completes the bus defect card in a complete, concise, understandable and legible manner. Monitors the mechanical performance of the bus and reports problems in a timely manner. Has a complete working knowledge of the operational characteristics of all models of paratransit (STRIDE) buses operated by DTA.
• Provides customers with reliable and professional service. Maintains a comfortable environment on the bus.
• Has a complete understanding of the DTA paratransit (STRIDE) fare structure and collects all applicable fares. Inspects all ride tickets presented for currency and proper use. Notifies dispatcher of problems regarding fare collections.
• Keeps dispatcher informed of all operational changes including, but not limited to, delays, mechanical problems, accidents, traffic congestion, passenger problems and other operational items.
• Completes in a timely, correct and legible manner all required reporting forms to include day cards, survey forms, defect cards, accident and incident reports, and other forms that may be required.
• Follows all procedures as identified in the Paratransit Bus Operator Manual, Station Rules, Union Contract and memoranda.

The performance of the major job functions for this position requires the candidate to be present at their work setting. Regular, dependable attendance is necessary for the performance of the job duties.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have a valid Driver's License or equivalent in good standing.
• Must pass a pre-employment DOT drug screen and DOT physical. (Paid for by the DTA)
• Mus pass a pre-employment background check.
• Must have the ability to safely and efficiently operate DTA paratransit buses in an urban environment under all types of traffic and weather conditions.
• Must have the ability to read and interpret maps.
• Must have excellent verbal communications skills. Must be able to verbally communicate service information in a clear, concise and understandable manner. Must have the ability to effectively deal with customers of diverse ages, services, needs and expectations.
• Must have a basic understanding of mechanical functions of the buses and the ability to identify mechanical malfunctions. (We will train this skill)
• Must successfully complete the DTA New Paratransit Bus Operator Training Program. (This is a paid training program)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to stand intermittently, sit in a confined space for an extended period of time, walk intermittently, push and pull up to 250 lbs., bend, kneel, stoop, extend arms to reach bus controls and equipment, twist and turn waist, shoulders and neck, climb stairs and move both legs to reach brake and accelerator pedals and turn signal controls.
• The physical requirement listed in this section include, but are not necessarily limited to, the motor/physical abilities and skills required of this position in order to successfully undertake the essential duties and responsibilities of this position. In accordance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reasonable accommodation may be made to empower individuals with disabilities to undertake the essential duties and responsibilities of the position.