Bus Driver Trainer (Full-time)

Job Description

The Bus Driver Trainer plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and compliance of student transportation operations. This position provides both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction to new and current school bus drivers, ensuring adherence to local, state, and federal regulations. The Trainer evaluates driver performance, conducts required certifications, maintains documentation for audits, and assists in developing safety procedures and professional development for transportation staff.

The Bus Driver Trainer also supports the department by performing driving duties as needed to meet operational demands and ensure uninterrupted service. This Full-time, 10-month Support position is with the Department of Pupil Transportation, reporting to the Support Supervisor of Pupil Transportation and Fleet Management.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Language: Ability to speak and understand English; Bilingual is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum 3 years experience operating a school bus is required.
• Certifications: Current Commercial Drivers License with Passenger, School bus endorsements, and no Airbrakes restriction.
  
  

Key Competencies

• Safety and Compliance: Understanding of federal, state, and district transportation safety standards and the ability to train others accordingly. Knowledge and execution of bus safety procedures, emergency evacuations, and securing of students and equipment
• Instructional Skill: Ability to design and deliver effective classroom and hands-on driver training.
• Assessment and Evaluation: Skill in evaluating driver performance, identifying areas for improvement, and documenting outcomes.
• Communication: Effectively conveys procedures, expectations, and safety standards to drivers and staff. Attention to Detail: Maintains accurate, timely records and ensures compliance with all documentation requirements.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Models professional behavior and fosters a culture of safety, respect, and accountability.
• Adaptability: Ability to respond calmly to emergencies, special needs, and unexpected situations while maintaining student safety and order.
• Teamwork: Works collaboratively with drivers, transportation staff, and school personnel to support student transportation needs.
  
  

Core Responsibilities

• Conducts classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training for new and existing school bus drivers in compliance with VDOE, ACPS, and PTFM procedures and regulations.
• Evaluates driver skills and knowledge through performance assessments, ride-alongs, and mandated observations.
• Develops and maintains training materials, safety manuals, and instructional handouts.
• Monitors driver certifications, physicals, and required documentation to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Coordinates driver recertification and retraining activities as needed.
• Maintains detailed electronic and manual records of training sessions, attendance, and performance evaluations for audit purposes.
• Conducts safety meetings and participates in district and state-level professional development sessions.
• Communicates updates on regulatory changes, safety protocols, and operational expectations to drivers and supervisors.
• Assists with the coordination of recognition or incentive programs to encourage safe and exemplary driving.
• Drives a school bus as needed to cover routes or support district transportation requirements.
• Reports all incidents, accidents, and observed unsafe practices promptly following ACPS procedures.
• Promotes a positive and professional culture of safety, respect, and continuous learning within the transportation team.
• Attend required training, meetings, and in-service sessions to remain informed about safety procedures and operational updates.
• Support the overall transportation operation to ensure the effective and safe transit of all students, including those with special needs
  
  

Compensation

• Hourly wage $26.17 to $32.19 an hour (Additional factors in calculation, including hours, # of days, etc.)
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt position - This position is classified as non-exempt, meaning it is eligible for overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
  
  

Clearances

• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.
• Tuberculosis Skin Test
• Public Health Compliance - Must follow safety and health protocols.
  
  

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