Special Needs Van Driver

Special Needs Van Driver Transportation

Part-Time, Non-Exempt, Pay Grade 9

The Special Needs Car/Van Driver, under the supervision of an assigned Lead Driver, operates an automobile for the purpose of transporting up to five students with special transport requirements. Monitors and assists students with physical and or mental challenges. Essential functions include, and are not limited to the following:

• Safely operates a County car in a manner that fosters a safe and conscientious image to the public;
• Provides portal-to-portal pick up and delivery of special needs students; physically assists students, during loading and unloading at designated locations, as required to include loading and unloading student equipment such as walkers, backpacks, etc.;
• Ensures full compliance with safety policies in transporting and handling students;
• Work directly with school staff and parents to develop safe loading/unloading and transport strategies;
• Familiarization with the unique needs of all students in the vehicle; may be required to assume custody of student medication and administration of medication and first aid needs of the student; acts as liaison for student with school and parent/guardian;
• Maintains confidentiality of student information;
• Maintains order in the car, specifically student management, by maintaining appropriate level of behavior and control of students while in transport;
• Secures students while ensuring the proper use of car seats and other restraint devices; installs/removes car seats and booster seats as necessary for transportation of students;
• May work with a Transportation Assistant, if required by student IEP;
• Accomplishes and submits monthly reports, conduct reports, and other paperwork as required;
• Checks email regularly; Maintains daily time records via iPod; Ensures timely submission of timekeeping data to department administration;
• Perform routine operator care to include: pre trip, post trip, washing the car, vacuuming; checking equipment, reporting defects, and presenting the car for regularly scheduled maintenance;
• Attend pre-service, in-service, and other required meetings pertaining to the job;
• Responsible for ensuring all accidents are immediately reported to a driver supervisor;
• Performs related duties as required.

Qualifications: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and at least one year directly related experience. Prefer experience as an Albemarle County Public Schools Transportation Assistant. Some experience using computer hardware and software preferred. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: VA driver's license having no reckless driving or driving under the influence convictions within five years and/or fewer than two moving violations within 12 months of employment. Satisfactory health conditions as certified by competent medical authority.

Considerable knowledge of: ACPS vehicles approved for student transport; local, state and federal traffic laws and regulations; the operation of light automotive equipment; road, street and school locations within the County; the proper use and operation of two-way radio equipment. Ability to: develop and maintain a positive attitude toward students; learn computer hardware and software applications to include iPod usage and Microsoft Outlook Email; communicate and develop effective working relationships with students, parents and staff; work with students having special needs; deal effectively in a crisis or emergency situation. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Physical Conditions & Nature of Work Contacts: Work is typically performed inside and around the exterior of a car. Frequent bending, stooping, crawling and climbing to inspect on and under the hood is necessary. Occasional lifting of at least fifty pounds is required. Occasional operation of vehicles during inclement weather is required. Frequent contact with department staff, school staff, and students is required. Occasional meetings with principals and parents are necessary.

Application Deadline: Until Filled