SOUTHEAST ALABAMA REGIONAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (SEARPDC)
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Bus Driver I
Department: Transportation
Grade: Not Specified
FLSA: Not Specified
Safety Sensitive Job: Yes
Security Sensitive Job: No
Job Description Prepared: November 2021
Note: Statements included in this description are intended to reflect the general duties and responsibilities of the job. They are not all-inclusive. The employee may be assigned additional duties as needed.
Relationships
Reports to: Transportation Director
Subordinate Staff: None
Internal Contacts: Office Staff, Administration
External Contacts: General Public, Aging Population, Vendors, Nurses, Nurse Aides
Job Summary
Under supervision of the Transportation Director, the Bus Driver I operates a transit vehicle according to established schedules and procedures. Responsibilities include daily inspections, driving assigned routes, assisting passengers, collecting fares, and maintaining basic vehicle upkeep. This is a safety-sensitive role and is subject to a pre-employment background check and random drug screening.
Essential Functions
Transportation
- Transport passengers safely and efficiently to scheduled destinations
- Follow daily driving assignments and update supervisor on changes
- Assist passengers entering/exiting vehicles and with packages
- Load, secure, and assist wheelchair passengers using the hydraulic lift
- Collect and document fares; maintain logs and passenger information
- Communicate via radio for updates and emergencies
- Report incidents or complaints to supervisor
- Reconcile daily fares and submit records
- Attend required driver training, CPR, and first aid sessions
Vehicle Maintenance
- Attend quarterly training workshops
- Perform pre- and post-trip inspections
- Clean vehicle inside and out daily
- Check and maintain fluid levels, belts, tires
- Refuel as needed
- Deliver vehicle for routine maintenance
- Report mechanical issues to supervisor
Non-Essential Function
Performs other tasks as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Can be acquired on the job)
- Knowledge of public transportation laws, safety, and vehicle operation
- Familiarity with local geography and traffic laws
- Skills in reading schedules, maps, signs, and completing forms
- Communication and customer service skills
- Safe driving, defensive driving, and emergency response techniques
- Ability to lift 25+ lbs, assist passengers, and secure wheelchairs
- Flexibility, patience, and ability to work independently
- Ability to train others and manage stressful situations
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED
- Experience working with the public; transportation driving preferred
- Valid Class C CDL (Class B preferred); must maintain insurability
- Complete lift/wheelchair safety, CPR, defensive driving, fire safety training
- Pass pre-employment background check and drug screening
Physical Demands
Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting. May work on uneven terrain and perform physically demanding tasks requiring agility and strength.
Work Environment
Moderate risks with potential exposure to moving equipment, bodily fluids, and chemicals. Protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and masks may be required.
