Bus Driver

Bus Driver

The Bus Driver ensures the safe and efficient transportation of students to and from school, as well as to other district-sanctioned events, including field trips, athletic events, and extracurricular activities. This position is responsible for operating a school bus, adhering to all traffic laws and safety regulations, and maintaining a safe environment for students during transit. The Bus Driver works independently while collaborating with other transportation personnel and school administration. Confidentiality of student and district information is required. This position involves some physical tasks, including pre-trip inspections and vehicle maintenance duties.

High School Diploma or GED required. Valid Arizona Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with school bus endorsement (Class B, Air Brake, Passenger, and School Bus). Arizona School Bus Driver Certification is required. Must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical and drug test. CPR and First Aid Certification required. Possess a valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card. At least two years of driving experience with a clean driving record. Ability to work early mornings, late afternoons, and occasional evenings for extracurricular activities and field trips. Knowledge of traffic laws and school bus safety regulations. Ability to work cooperatively with staff, students, parents, and the public. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to manage student behavior effectively and respond to emergencies calmly and professionally. Ability to perform basic vehicle maintenance and pre-trip inspections.

Student Transportation: Safely transport students to and from school, field trips, athletic events, and other school-sponsored activities. Ensure students are delivered to designated drop-off points and are met by the appropriate parent or guardian when applicable. Demonstrate and explain emergency evacuation procedures to passengers according to Transportation Safety Training. Maintain daily mileage and route logs, update route maps and directions as needed, and follow designated route directions. Maintain order and discipline of students while on the bus and prepare conduct reports as needed. Operate a wheelchair lift when applicable, ensuring the safe loading and unloading of passengers with disabilities.

Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection: Perform daily pre-trip safety inspections of the bus, including checking tires, wheels, fluid levels, mirrors, emergency exits, and other essential components. Report defects or non-operational issues immediately to the Transportation Supervisor. Ensure the cleanliness of the bus interior and fuel the bus as needed. Complete post-trip inspections and report any issues discovered during the route.

Safety and Emergency Procedures: Obey all traffic laws and safety regulations for school buses, ensuring a safe environment for students at all times. Handle student conflicts and emergencies professionally and calmly. Respond to emergency situations using proper safety protocols and procedures.

Communication and Reporting: Communicate with teachers, principals, aides, and other school staff to ensure the safe and smooth operation of student transportation. Maintain clear communication with parents, students, and the community regarding route updates, delays, and safety procedures.

Physical Demands: Ability to sit for extended periods while driving. Occasional lifting, carrying, and pushing, including assisting with student needs or performing vehicle inspections. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and frequently exert up to 30 lbs. of force to move objects, such as student belongings. Perform activities that include climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling when necessary. Ability to pass the Physical Performance Test per Arizona Department of Public Safety and Arizona Administrative Code R-13-13-102.

Working Conditions: Work is performed primarily in a school bus during designated routes, with occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions during pick-up and drop-off. Interaction with students, staff, parents, and the public in various environments, including school grounds and extracurricular activities. The job may involve occasional evening or weekend work for field trips and school events.