Bus Operator

The Bus Operator is responsible for the safe and timely transportation of students and staff to daily afterschool programming, field trips, and other organizational events. This role requires strict adherence to traffic regulations and transportation schedules. The Bus Operator will operate and maintain the buses and vans owned by EnCompass and its affiliate' ("ESF Vehicles") while ensuring they remain in safe working condition. Additionally, the Bus Operator will coordinate and arrange transportation services with external providers, when necessary.

Job Responsibilities:

• Safely operate a bus and/or organizational vans to transport students, staff, and program participants.
• Arrange transportation with third-party bus operators when ESF vehicles are unavailable or insufficient to accommodate the required number of passengers.
• Adhere to all traffic laws, safety regulations, and organizational transportation policies.
• Conduct pre- and post-trip inspections of the vehicles to ensure they are in safe operating condition.
• Maintain accurate records of routes, mileage, and maintenance checks.
• Ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all passengers.
• Assist students with boarding and exiting the vehicle, when necessary.
• Communicate effectively with staff, parents, and students regarding transportation schedules and any delays or concerns.
• Report incidents, accidents, or mechanical issues promptly to the appropriate personnel.
• Step in to fulfill Transportation Coordinator responsibilities, as needed.
• Performs other driving or safety related duties, as assigned.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Strong verbal communications skills.
• The ability to work afternoon and evening hours.
• Must be able to work efficiently and stay on schedule, without direct supervision.
• Must be able to read and understand street signs, route sheets, and maps.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must possess a CDL Operator’s License with required endorsements. The Bus Operator must have a valid NY State Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a passenger endorsement and a school bus endorsement.
• At least one-year prior experience transporting students preferred.
• Ability to pass School Bus Physical Performance test and Driver Physical Examinations as required by NYSED and 19A.
• Must be able to submit to the Drug and Alcohol Testing Program as required by Federal Regulations.
• Demonstrated proficiency in the operation of assigned vehicles. May include extra equipment such as car seats, safety equipment and air brakes under all road and weather conditions.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for up to 4 hours at a time while driving.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Must have ability to reach to clean windshield, perform under-hood inspections and check the roof hatch.

• Must have ability to effectively complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections.

• Ability to bend or squat to perform pre-trip inspections, apply tie-downs, sweeping and checking for sleeping children.

Schedule:

• 1:30-7:30pm Monday through Thursday with flexibility to work during the day on school breaks and over the summer.
• Occasional weekends with varying hours, as needed.

Salary:

$21.98-$29.56/hours based on experience

Commitment to DEI:

It is our pledge to nourish an organizational culture which strives to:

• Embrace diversity in all forms and structure policies and practices to increase representation of qualified individuals who reflect the communities we serve
• Prioritize equity in employment, compensation, promotion, and professional development
• Increase access to quality services, educational and economic opportunities, and lifelong success for students and families
• Value the unique backgrounds and experiences of each person we employ and serve
• Cultivate a work environment where all people feel safe to express ideas