Bus Driver

Expectations of Bus Driver

Under the general supervision of the Transportation Supervisor, ensure the safe transportation of students, staff, and others to and from school, residential neighborhoods, and field trips.

Driver Responsibilities

• Safely drive the school bus, when school is in session, on designated routes in accordance with time schedules; load and unload students at assigned locations.
• Transport students, teachers, and others on field or activity trips.
• Inspect the bus daily to ensure it is clean, in good working order, and safe for transporting passengers.
• Clean, refuel, and maintain the bus as needed.
• Ensure communication devices are working properly before each trip.
• Report all mechanical issues, traffic violations, or accidents promptly.
• Ensure routine maintenance of the bus (e.g., oil changes) and transport the bus to maintenance/repair facilities.
• Maintain order and discipline on the bus in a courteous manner in accordance with district policies and procedures.
• Observe and track route timings for efficiency, as requested.
• Submit necessary records and reports as required.
• Ensure no child is left alone on the bus without adult supervision at any time and that all children safely exit at the end of all routes.
• Inventory bus emergency and first aid supplies; report any deficiencies to the Transportation Supervisor.
• Prepare aides and children for bus drills; ensure evacuation drills are conducted as required.
• In emergencies, evacuate children and follow medical procedures; complete required reports.
• Participate in training, education, and professional development opportunities.
• Performs other related tasks as assigned.

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of traffic laws, regulations, road signs, and related information.
• Manual dexterity to operate the bus and conduct pre-trip inspections.
• Visual and auditory acuity within professionally determined ranges (with correction, if needed).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Organizational, problem-solving, and time-management abilities.
• Ability to follow procedures and comprehend traffic signs.
• Ability to move through the bus and classrooms and assist children as needed.
• Ability to perform well under pressure, especially in emergency situations.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others.

Educational and Certification Requirements:

• Education: High School Diploma or GED.
• Certification/License: Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License; Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class B with Passenger and School Bus endorsements.
• Experience: Successful prior experience as a bus driver, preferably in a school district or with transporting children.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Works primarily in a school bus environment.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt