Compassionate Paratransit Driver Senior Transport

Description

Under the direction of the Manager of Transportation, the Bus Driver provides door-to-door transportation for older adults and individuals with disabilities for medical and personal appointments. The position assists with Township out-trips and supports special events as needed.

The Bus Driver operates a mixed fleet of gas and electric vehicles and utilizes Ecolane transportation software and a tablet to manage daily pick-up and drop-off schedules, which may change throughout the day. This role requires consistent, courteous public interaction and the ability to represent the Township in a professional manner.

Hours:

Shifts are scheduled between approximately 7:45 AM and 3:45 PM, Monday through Friday. Weekly hours will vary based on operational needs.

Essential Job Functions:

• Safely transport Township residents to and from appointments and Township-organized trips in a professional and courteous manner.
• Follow assigned routes using the Ecolane tablet and GPS navigation system.
• Ensure compliance with all traffic laws, safety regulations, and Township transportation policies.
• Assist residents boarding and exiting the bus, including use of the wheelchair lift or stairs; carry and load oxygen tanks following required precautions.
• Provide courteous, professional customer service while interacting with residents, including those with varying physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.
• Operate and maintain a mixed fleet of gas and electric vehicles, including refueling, charging, and adapting to evolving transportation technologies.
• Complete daily vehicle inspections, including fuel, oil, fluids, wipers, lights, and other safety-related checks; report maintenance concerns to the Manager or Dispatcher.
• Assist clients by carrying small packages, groceries, or other items as needed.
• Maintain daily operational records, including mileage, fuel usage, odometer readings, ride counts, and other required data.
• Maintain interior bus cleanliness, including routine cleaning, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, and removing trash.
• Collect client donations during each shift and turn them in to the Dispatcher or Manager.
• Respond safely and appropriately to unforeseen operational issues, following emergency procedures to protect passengers.
• Wear Township-issued uniform while operating vehicles.
• Notify the Manager of any changes in driver’s license status, including tickets, address changes, or other updates.
• Complete required operational, procedural, and CDL-related training as assigned.
• Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality to support daily transportation schedules.

Learning & Growth Opportunities

• Training in Ecolane transportation software, GPS routing, and client service best practices.
• Skills development in transportation safety, accessible riding assistance, and emergency procedures.
• Exposure to municipal transportation operations and specialized senior and disability transport programs.

Qualifications:

• Excellent customer service, listening, and communication skills.
• Patience and compassion when working with older adults and individuals with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, GPS instructions, and written or verbal directions.
• Ability to follow complex instructions, work independently, and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to provide constructive feedback and communicate Township procedures clearly.
• Ability to maintain effective relationships with residents, coworkers, vendors, and elected officials.
• Bilingual skills preferred.

Education & Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with passenger endorsement required.
• Current DOT medical card signed by a certified physician.
• One year of transportation experience is preferred.
• Ability to operate a tablet and utilize GPS-based routing systems for navigation.
• Experience operating electric vehicles is a plus.

Special Requirements:

• Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends as assigned.
• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• Submission to random drug and alcohol testing.
• Registration with FMCSA Clearinghouse with consent for employer query.
• Ability to pass a background check and maintain a clean driving record.
• Ability to safely secure wheelchairs and mobility devices using proper restraints and safety procedures.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, twist, turn, and use hands in repetitive motion for extended periods.
• Ability to operate foot controls with both feet while driving.
• Ability to lift, pull, push, and carry up to 35 pounds, including occasional assistance with mobility devices and passengers up to approximately 200–300 pounds using proper equipment and safety procedures.
• Ability to bend, squat, stoop, or climb for extended periods.
• Ability to operate a heavy motor vehicle safely.

Working Conditions:

• Work occurs inside the bus and outdoors while assisting clients. Exposure to rain, snow, heat, cold, humidity, and other environmental conditions is frequent.
• May encounter moderate noise levels, vehicle vibrations, fuel odors, and bright lights from surrounding traffic.
• Evening or weekend driving may be required for special events.

Benefits:

Part-time positions are eligible for paid time off in accordance with Township policy. Employees may participate in departmental training and professional development. Part-time roles do not include medical, dental, vision, or IMRF benefits.