11245* Bus Driver Trainee

Trainee Bus Driver

Days: 226 (80 days at 40 hours trainee program) Pay Grade: PTHRLY ***Please check the Salary Schedule for current rates and stipend eligibility. Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent Clear and valid Texas Drivers's license Safe driving record Not prohibited by FMCSA to drive a school bus Must be at least 21 years of age Prior experience in public school transportation preferred *** Please see attached Job Description for more information.

Reports to: Safety and Training Manager Date Revised: July 2024 Dept./School: Transportation Pay Grade: PTHRLY

Primary Purpose

To safely and efficiently operate a school bus and related equipment to ensure students and other authorized persons on assigned routes will arrive safely at their designated locations.

Qualifications

Education/Certification

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Clear and valid Texas driver's license
• Safe driving record
• Not prohibited by FMCSA to drive a school bus
• Must be at least 21 years of age

Experience

• Prior experience in public school transportation preferred

Special Knowledge/Skills

• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
• Ability to train to operate a school bus within 30 school days of the start date
• Ability to complete required bus driver safety training
• Professional radio communication skills
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions, including policy and procedure manuals
• Ability to read maps/ interpret directions for route assigned
• Ability to pass U.S. Department of Transportation annual physical exam and drug tests
• Ability to respond in emergency situations
• Ability to manage student behavior
• Ability to work well with children with disabilities
• Ability to operate special needs equipment and adaptive equipment
• Ability to work as a team with the bus aid
• Ability to work under pressure and prioritize effectively while maintaining composure and responding in an appropriate manner

Major Responsibilities and Duties

1. Learn to drive a bus daily, following assigned routes and adhering to established schedules.

2. Learn to be consistent in route departure/arrival time at designated bus stops.

3. Learn to anticipate problems such as traffic, weather, road conditions, and schedule changes and make necessary adjustments to ensure student safety and reduce delays.

4. Learn to follow the assigned bus route as directed.

5. Learn to perform pre-and post-trip inspections according to specifications to ensure the bus can be operated safely. Notify the shop of any issues.

6. Learn to display professionalism in dealing with students, parents, staff, and the community.

7. Learn to approach problem-solving tactfully with directness and integrity.

8. Learn to exert a positive influence and work in harmony with coworkers.

9. Respond to suggestions for improvement in a positive manner.

10. Learn to report all accidents, vehicle damage, student injuries, and mechanical problems immediately.

11. Learn to complete and maintain accurate, updated, timely records, including attendance.

12. Exercise responsible leadership when transporting school children.

13. Manifest support for and compliance with the philosophy, objectives, policies, and procedures of Garland ISD.

Student Management

14. Learn to manage student behaviors according to CPI practices, utilize non-violent crisis intervention as a last resort, and report student discipline problems promptly to your supervisor.

15. Communicate with your supervisor regarding student behaviors on the bus, and then follow the proper steps to report the problems.

16. Learn to instruct students on safe entering, exiting, and passenger guidelines and oversee them while they load, unload, and cross the street.

Safety

17. Learn to observe all traffic laws and safety regulations for school buses, including railroad crossings.

18. Learn to operate all special needs equipment according to established safety procedures, such as wheelchair straps, locks, seatbelts, vests, wheelchair lifts, car seats, special adaptive equipment, safety equipment (reflective signs), and fire extinguishers.

19. Learn to follow emergency procedures, including evacuation of students as needed and, if necessary, to administer first aid.

20. Correct unsafe conditions in the work area and promptly report conditions that are not immediately correctable to your supervisor. Report any hazardous conditions along the scheduled route.

21. Familiarize yourself with your route and know where the nearest campuses are located.

Other

22. Learn to use proper etiquette when operating and monitoring two-way radio equipment.

23. Always keep the bus clean.

24. Complete all required training assigned.

25. Seek professional growth through continuing education and staff development.

26. Maintain a professional appearance.

27. Attend monthly Safety Meetings.

28. Must be available both AM and PM.

29. Perform all other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors

Tools/Equipment Used: School bus operation, safety equipment; fire extinguisher; and radio communication equipment.

Posture: Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time; occasional bending/stooping; pushing/pulling; and twisting.

Motion: Prolonged sitting and reaching; repetitive hand and arm motions.

Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 25 pounds).

Environment: Work outside and inside with moderate exposure to extreme temperatures (hot and cold) and weather conditions; moderate exposure to vehicle fumes; work irregular hours as needed.

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress.

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.