Athletics Bus Driver

Job Summary: The Bus Driver is responsible for the safe transport of students, faculty, and staff around campus and to various off-campus locations. The Bus Driver will be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely transport of passengers, providing exceptional service, and maintaining a positive and professional image of the university's transportation services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Safe Transportation: Operate university buses or shuttle vehicles safely, following all traffic laws, university guidelines, and safety procedures.
• Route Management: Drive assigned routes on time, ensuring punctuality and adherence to schedules. Adjust to unexpected changes or delays, such as weather or traffic conditions, while ensuring passenger safety.
• Passenger Assistance: Assist passengers with boarding and disembarking, especially those with special needs. Ensure a respectful, professional, and friendly demeanor while interacting with students, faculty, and staff.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Conduct pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections to ensure buses are in safe operating condition. Report any maintenance issues or mechanical problems to the transportation supervisor promptly.
• Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service by answering questions about routes, schedules, and general university information. Address and resolve any issues or complaints in a courteous manner.
• Safety and Compliance: Maintain a clean driving record, comply with all local, state, and federal transportation regulations, and uphold the university's safety policies. Participate in ongoing training related to safety, security, and operational procedures.
• Documentation: Keep accurate records of daily routes, passenger counts, and any incidents or accidents. Submit reports as required.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Some college coursework or training in transportation, safety, or a related field is preferred.
• Licensing: Valid commercial driver's license (CDL B or higher) with passenger endorsement is required. Must maintain a clean driving record.
• Experience: Previous experience as a bus driver or in a similar role is preferred but not required. Experience working with a diverse population and in a customer service role is a plus.
• Skills: Strong communication skills, attention to detail, ability to handle stressful situations calmly, and a commitment to safety.
• Physical Requirements: Must be able to sit for extended periods, lift and move up to 50 pounds (e.g., for loading/unloading items), and have the physical ability to handle the demands of the position.

Additional Information:

• Flexibility with work hours is required, as shifts may vary depending on the academic calendar, events, or seasonal demands.
• Employees are expected to adhere to university dress and appearance standards.

Working Conditions:

• Environment:
  • Work is primarily conducted outdoors and in various weather conditions (rain, snow, extreme heat, etc.), as well as inside a bus or shuttle vehicle.
  • Must be able to work in a busy, often fast-paced environment, particularly during peak hours, special events, and high-traffic periods.
  • The role requires frequent interaction with students, faculty, staff, and the general public in a variety of settings across the university campus and surrounding areas.
• Physical Demands:
  • The job involves sitting for extended periods while driving, with occasional walking and standing, especially when assisting passengers with boarding and unloading.
  • Must be able to lift, carry, and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds (such as luggage, sports equipment, or supplies).
  • Ability to climb in and out of the bus or shuttle vehicle easily, especially in emergency situations.
• Shift Hours and Flexibility:
  • Hours may vary, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the university schedule, events, and transportation needs.
  • The position may require working irregular shifts, including split shifts or extended hours during special events such as athletic games, orientations, or university-wide activities.
  • The ability to work in changing weather and road conditions (e.g., snow, rain, or heat).
• Safety Requirements:
  • The role demands strict adherence to safety standards, including the use of seat belts, adherence to traffic laws, and the completion of routine vehicle inspections.
  • Regular safety training and updates are required, and the driver must be able to respond to emergencies, including vehicle accidents, passenger issues, or medical emergencies, as needed.
• Stress and Decision-Making:
  • The driver must manage stress and make quick, sound decisions, especially in situations involving tight schedules, traffic delays, or unexpected changes in route or weather conditions.
  • The ability to handle high-stress situations calmly and efficiently while maintaining safety for all passengers.
• Workplace Relationships:
  • Must maintain a professional and friendly demeanor when interacting with a diverse group of passengers, university staff, and the public.
  • Collaborative work with other transportation team members, including dispatchers and supervisors, is essential for efficient operations.
• Equipment and Tools:
  • The driver will use a variety of tools and systems, including radio communication, GPS, and other navigational aids.
  • Regular use of university-owned buses or shuttle vehicles, which may require occasional cleaning and light maintenance duties.
• Noise and Distractions:
  • The driver may encounter noisy environments in and around the campus or on busy roads, as well as potential distractions from passengers or other drivers.
  • Must remain focused while driving to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.
• Health and Wellness:
  • Drivers must adhere to regular health checks as required by university policy or state regulations (e.g., vision and hearing tests, physical exams).
  • A commitment to maintaining personal well-being and health to meet the physical demands of the position.