Community Services Driver

Position Overview

One of Trinity's key support services is helping people with development disabilities or mental health illnesses integrate more fully into the community. For people supported unable to drive, Trinity must offer a safe transportation option to facilitate their mobility. The driver’s role involves assisting people with transportation to and from community day services. Additionally, this position may support people served in accessing various community settings. The primary responsibilities include ensuring safe and reliable transportation, adhering to all driving policies and procedures, and maintaining a valid Illinois driver’s license along with Pace certification.

Location: Joliet, IL

Hours: Split Shift

Pay: $20.50/hour

Network Or Department

Community Day Services (Network 6)

Essential Functions

Prioritize the safety and well-being of people being transported to Trinity programs and community events.

Verify the number of people supported before departure and conduct a second count for accuracy.

Safely operate and follow procedures for wheelchair lifts, tie-downs, and other mobility equipment.

Adhere to all traffic laws and maintain safe driving practices, especially in inclement weather.

Follow strict safety guidelines, including but not limited to:

• Never leaving a participant alone or unsupervised in a vehicle.
• Never leaving keys in an unattended vehicle or allowing unauthorized individuals to operate the vehicle.
• Refraining from cellphone use while driving.
• Prohibiting eating, drinking, and smoking in or around agency vehicles.

Practicing defensive and courteous driving techniques.

Ensuring all passengers wear seat belts or are properly secured in wheelchairs.

Reporting any moving violations or accidents occurring during agency business.

Prohibiting unauthorized passengers (e.g., children, family members, friends) in agency vehicles.

Prohibiting the use of agency vehicles for personal business.

Never operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or carrying prohibited substances or weapons.

Escorting individuals to their residence or program site, ensuring safe arrival, and confirming the presence of staff or family members.

Complete all required documentation, including:

• Log sheets
• Safety and maintenance checks
• Mileage records
• Comply with all physical and drug testing requirements as per DOT regulations.
• Adapt to route and schedule changes as needed.
• Provide assistance and support to people with disabilities during transport.
• Meet all qualifications for operating Trinity and Pace vehicles, including completing a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check as needed.
  
  

Skills And Abilities

• Strong directional and navigation skills (understanding North, South, East, and West).
• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Knowledge of driving regulations and safety procedures.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Effective communication with families and guardians.
  
  

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift over 40 pounds unassisted (floor to waist).
• Ability to push and pull up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to perform deep knee squats.
• Ability to push wheelchairs weighing up to 200 pounds.
• Ability to sit, stand, and remain stationary for extended periods.
• Ability to operate motor vehicles safely.
• Perform physical tasks such as balancing, reaching, lifting, pulling, stooping, kneeling, and repetitive motion.
  
  

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Clean driving record.
• Minimum 21 years of age.
• Must obtain and maintain Pace certification.
• Valid driver’s license for at least 3 years