Bus Driver Trainee

Bus Driver Trainee

The Bus Driver Trainee classification is a training position designed to prepare individuals for potential appointment to the Bus Driver classification. Trainees are expected to actively participate in all classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, vehicle inspections, safety training, and other activities required by the program. The training program consists of a minimum of twenty hours in class and twenty hours behind the wheel. Upon successful completion of the training program, trainees may be invited to apply for the Bus Driver classification.

To be considered for appointment as a Bus Driver, candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the Bus Driver classification and successfully participate in the Bus Driver examination process, which includes a structured interview. Completion of the Bus Driver Trainee program does not guarantee appointment to a Bus Driver position. Applicants should review the physical abilities and working conditions associated with the Bus Driver classification, as the trainee program is intended to prepare candidates to perform those duties.

The Bus Driver Trainee role prepares individuals to become qualified school bus drivers through hands-on and classroom-based instruction. Trainees will learn to safely operate school buses, including vehicles equipped with specialized features for students with mobility or access challenges. The position supports the transportation needs of students, ensuring a safe and timely commute to and from schools, events, and special routes. Successful completion of the training program will provide the trainee with all state- and federally-mandated training requirements to test with a California Highway Patrol (CHP) examiner for the appropriate licensing and certification required to operate a school bus in the state of California.

Distinguishing Characteristics: The Bus Driver Trainee position is designed for individuals who have not yet met the licensing and certification requirements to become fully qualified Bus Drivers. Unlike Bus Drivers, trainees operate under supervision and cannot transport students independently until all certifications are obtained. This position focuses on training and development, preparing candidates to meet state and district qualifications. This role is distinct from the Passenger Vehicle Driver role, which involves driving smaller district vehicles and does not require the comprehensive licensing or training needed for school bus operation.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Training and Observation:

• Completes all required classroom and on-the-road training sessions, including observing licensed drivers and practicing driving under supervision.
• Learns to operate school buses safely and in compliance with district policies and state laws.
• Understands and practices the use of specialized equipment for students requiring accommodations (e.g., hydraulic lifts, wheelchair restraints).

Bus Operations and Maintenance:

• Assists with pre-trip and post-trip inspections under supervision, learning to identify potential safety hazards and mechanical issues.
• Gains hands-on experience with fueling, cleaning, and maintaining the bus's interior and exterior.

Safety and Behavior Management:

• Practices student behavior management techniques to maintain a safe environment during transportation.
• Observes emergency procedures, including administering first aid and evacuating the bus during drills.

Route Familiarization:

• Learns designated bus routes, including stops, traffic patterns, and potential hazards.
• Practices route driving to gain familiarity and improve time management.
• Learns basic route-management techniques; including operation of routing and passenger-management systems, basic routing concepts, and basic route-optimization techniques.

Compliance and Documentation:

• Attends safety meetings and continuing education sessions.
• Completes all required logs and reports related to training progress and safety practices.

Other Functions:

• Performs other duties as assigned that support the overall objective of the position.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Satisfactory driving record and restrictions as verified by K-4 Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
• A valid California Driver License, Class C.
• No prior bus driving experience is necessary; previous experience in professional driving or working with children is preferred.
• Licenses and Certificates:
• Must achieve a valid First Aid and CPR certification issued by an authorized agency, during the training period.
• A valid California Commercial Driver's License (CDL) class-B Learner's Permit, with P (passenger) and S (school bus) endorsements, must be obtained by the trainee at the conclusion of classroom training and before any behind-the-wheel training can commence. The trainee will be responsible for any fees charged by DMV for the permit.
• Current Medical Examination Report (MCSA-5875) and Medical Examiner's Certificate (MCSA-5876), to fulfill federal Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for commercial drivers -- required for CDL.
• Trainees will be responsible for all DMV and CHP fees incurred in the licensing process.

SPECIAL NOTE Effective January 1, 1995, all employees in these classifications are subject to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) regulations for drug and alcohol testing as required by the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991.

Supplemental Information

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities Skills to:

• Operate a school bus safely under supervision.
• Perform routine vehicle checks and report issues accurately.
• Communicate effectively with trainers, peers, and supervisors.

Knowledge of:

• Basic traffic laws and defensive driving practices.
• Fundamentals of vehicle mechanics and safety inspections.
• Proper use of safety equipment for students with special needs.

Ability to:

• Learn and apply state and district regulations governing school bus operations.
• Remain patient and professional in a training environment.
• Respond calmly and appropriately to simulated emergencies during training.
• Learning to properly use a two-way radio system

Working Environment

• Work occurs in outdoor environments, including busy traffic and varying weather conditions.
• Involves exposure to loud noises, vehicle fumes, and physical activity, including sitting for extended periods and assisting with equipment like wheelchair lifts.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The Simi Valley Unified School District is committed to providing equal opportunity for all applicants for employment. The application, examination, and selection process shall be free from unlawful discrimination, including discrimination against an individual or group based on race, color, ancestry, nationality, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital, pregnancy, or parental status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, or genetic information; a perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.