Bus Driver

Position Summary

The Bus Driver is responsible for the safe and timely transportation of children and families to and from Mid-Columbia Children’s Council (MCCC) centers and program activities. This role ensures adherence to all safety and transportation regulations while fostering a supportive and respectful environment for young children and families.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions of this job include, but are not limited to:

Transportation

1.      Operate a school bus or other authorized vehicle on assigned routes and field trips.

2.      Ensure safe pick-up and drop-off of children according to established schedules and procedures.

3.      Assist children on and off the bus, securing them with safety restraints as needed.

Safety & Compliance

4.      Conduct daily pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.

5.      Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the vehicle interior and exterior.

6.      Follow all state and federal traffic laws, Head Start transportation regulations (45 CFR 1303 Subpart F), and organizational policies.

7.      Ensure that children are never left unattended on the bus (perform child checks every route).

Child Supervision & Support

8.      Monitor children’s behavior and ensure their safety and well-being during transportation.

9.      Support children with disabilities or special needs, as applicable.

10. Report any concerns regarding a child’s health, behavior, or safety to appropriate staff.

11. Provide coverage for classroom or site staff during scheduled breaks as assigned.

Record Keeping

12. Maintain accurate transportation logs, including attendance, mileage, fuel usage, and maintenance records.

13. Document all safety checks and report any vehicle concerns or repairs needed.

Communication

14. Communicate effectively and professionally with families, center staff, and supervisors.

15. Inform parents/guardians about delays, schedule changes, or safety concerns.

16. Collaborate with monitors or aides (if applicable) to ensure a smooth transportation experience.

Training & Meetings

17. Complete Oregon Department of Education (ODE) initial required training before or as part of obtaining a School Bus Driver Certificate.

·         15 hours of Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) training in actual operation of the vehicle the driver will be expected to drive by a certified BTW trainer.

·         An 8-hour core classroom course taught by a certified core instructor.

·         CPR/First Aid course and certification.

18. Fulfill ongoing training hours: average of 8 hours of ODE training per year.

19. Stay informed of updates in rules, routes changes, and safety procedures, through meetings and approved trainings.

OTHER

20. Perform all other work-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Required

·         High School Diploma.

·         Valid driver’s license, proof of insurability, and cleared state driving record check.

·         Sufficient English proficiency to comprehend both oral and written directions.

Preferred

·         Associate’s degree.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to communicate and exchange information with others. They must be able to observe and assess their surroundings and detect any potential dangers or hazards. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The employee is required to operate office productivity machinery and may be required to operate a vehicle. This position requires the employee to move about both inside and outdoors and also to remain in a stationary position for some time. They may need to position themselves in various postures and ascend/descend ramps, ladders and/or stairs. The employee must be able to move up to 40 lbs. Below is a more detailed list of physical demands and requirements for this position. While the list below is not all inclusive, it does provide an accurate representation of what is expected in this position.