Bus Driver

Starting Pay: $18.35 per hour

Location: Rapid City, SD

Shift: Monday - Friday between 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm (10 - 15 hours per week) with potential field trips when school is not in session.

Benefits: Free YMCA Staff Membership!

Are you ready to be the driving force behind enriching the lives of children and contributing to the vibrant community spirit of the YMCA? We are actively seeking a dedicated individual to join our team as a part-time Bus Driver. The hours are flexible, Monday through Friday, from 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm, with the opportunity to pick up additional hours on earlier snack runs and field trips. In this essential role, you will play a vital part in ensuring the safe and reliable transportation of children participating in our afterschool programs, fostering a positive and supportive environment for their overall well-being.

As an Afterschool Program Bus Driver, your primary responsibility is to transport children from local schools to our YMCA facility for our afterschool programs and back home safely. You will be the friendly face that greets them at the end of their school day, creating a sense of familiarity and comfort as they transition to the engaging activities we have planned for them.

Safety is paramount, and you will ensure the safety and security of each child in your care throughout the transportation process. Fully complying with YMCA transportation policies and state and local codes, you will be a vigilant guardian of the well-being of the children entrusted to you. Your commitment to following safety protocols extends to conducting the route in a manner that maintains timeliness and is accident-free.

Vehicle maintenance is a key aspect of your role, and you will ensure the proper maintenance and use of equipment, supplies, and materials. This includes maintaining the appearance of the vehicle, both interior and exterior, to create a clean and safe environment for the children. You will connect with families in a way that not only manages all passengers effectively but also ensures that each child knows you by name, fostering a sense of trust and familiarity.

Communication and positive reinforcement are integral to your role. You will communicate and positively reinforce passenger safety rules in a manner that not only ensures compliance but also makes the students feel safe and secure during their journey. Completing the vehicle use log after each route and accurately completing incident/accident reports in accordance with staff training are essential components of your commitment to documentation and compliance.

Flexibility is a hallmark of this position, as you adapt to varying schedules, routes, and the dynamic needs of the afterschool program. Your ability to maintain a calm and patient demeanor, even in unexpected situations, will contribute to a smooth and positive transportation experience for both children and parents.

Your contribution extends beyond the wheels of the bus. As a valuable member of the afterschool program team, you will collaborate with program coordinators and staff to ensure a seamless transition for the children from transportation to program activities. Your commitment to teamwork and cooperation will enhance the overall effectiveness and success of the afterschool program.

Qualifications for this role include a valid Class B CDL driver's license with passenger endorsement, a clean driving record, and a genuine passion for working with children. Prior experience as a bus driver, particularly in a school or childcare setting, is a plus. Your commitment to upholding YMCA values, such as honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring, is fundamental to creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere for the children in our care.

Must be able to pass a background check.