Transportation Driver

Starting pay: $13.75 without CDL OR $14.00 with CDL Departmental Context: The Rural Transportation Program is designed to benefit all citizens of SWHRA's 8-county region (Chester, Decatur, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, and McNairy). The transportation service is a curb-to-curb system with flexible schedules to meet the needs of all passengers. Position Overview: The Transportation Driver is responsible for safely transporting individuals within the service area to and from designated locations. This role requires adherence to traffic laws, a strong focus on passenger safety, vehicle maintenance, and maintaining a courteous demeanor. The Van Driver works under the supervision of the Transportation Director and collaborates with other transportation personnel to ensure timely and efficient service delivery. Key Responsibilities: Passenger Transport: Ensure the prompt, reliable, and safe pick-up and delivery of passengers to their requested destinations. Assist both ambulatory individuals and wheelchair users into and out of the vehicle, adhering to agency safety protocols. (Drivers are not permitted to enter a passenger's home and are only expected to assist with a maximum of one stair for wheelchair users.) Safety & Compliance: Ensure the safety of all passengers, abiding by traffic laws and regulations at all times, including a strict no-texting or cell phone use policy while driving. Notify the dispatcher, administrative assistant, supervisor or transportation director of any traffic violations that may affect motor records on the same day they are received. Vehicle Maintenance & Care: Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of vehicles, both inside and outside, to ensure they are in proper working order. Maintain an orderly and safe vehicle at all times, ensuring it is equipped with any necessary equipment for passenger transport. Operate and maintain various vehicle technologies and lift equipment for transporting individuals with mobility challenges. Reporting & Documentation: Complete all required reports in coordination with office personnel, ensuring timely submission of vehicle logs, incident reports, and other necessary documentation. Keep the Supervisor or Dispatcher informed of any operational issues that arise during trips. Customer Service: Exhibit a friendly and courteous attitude toward passengers, co-workers, and other members of the public at all times. Ensure that passengers are treated with respect and professionalism, helping to create a positive experience. Assist in keeping office and other work areas clean and presentable. Work cooperatively with dispatchers, supervisors, and fellow drivers to ensure the smooth operation of transportation services. Support other team members when necessary, taking on additional tasks as assigned by the Supervisor or Transportation Director. Training & Professional Development: Attend regular scheduled training sessions to maintain up-to-date knowledge of driving techniques, lift operation, safety procedures, and other job-related skills. Stay current with agency policies and procedures, and continually improve driving techniques, particularly defensive driving methods. Emergency Response & Assistance: Evaluate each situation on the road, knowing when to request help if physically unable to assist a passenger. Respond to emergencies in accordance with agency protocols and inform the supervisor of any accidents or incidents immediately. Required Qualifications & Skills: Age & License Requirements: Must be 21 years or older. Must possess a valid Class D Driver's License with an F endorsement. Physical Requirements: Must be able to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Ability to assist passengers, including wheelchair users, in and out of vehicles, adhering to safety protocols. Must be able to pass a DOT physical. Background & Compliance Checks: Must pass a Motor Vehicle Registration (MVR) check, a criminal background check, and a pre-employment drug test approved by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Must be clear of all National Offender Registries, including the Sexual Offender Registry and the Elderly or Disabled Abuse Registry. Accessibility & Availability: Drivers must be readily accessible by telephone and be able to report to work on short notice, including at odd hours. Education Requirements: Must be a high school graduate or possess a G.E.D. #J-18808-Ljbffr