OASIS CHARTER SCHOOLS- BUS DRIVER

Job Title

Bus Driver

Job Description

Under the supervision of the Charter School Transportation Manager and the Superintendent, the Bus Driver operates a school bus providing safe and efficient transportation for students in support the Charter Schools goals. Background Screening Requirement: Florida law requires all school personnel to undergo a Level 2 background screening through the Florida Department of Education's Background Screening Clearinghouse. In accordance with House Bill 531, employment is contingent upon an applicant's eligibility for clearance and the successful completion of all required background screenings prior to hire. For additional information about the background screening process, please visit:

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out but may be considered incidental in the performance of this job.

• Ensures that the bus can be operated safely before driving by conducting pre-trip safety inspections, to include observing fuel and oil levels, checking operating systems, and looking for mechanical defects. Performs basic maintenance and minor repairs as necessary.
• Operates school bus safely over an assigned route, picking up and dropping off students only at authorized stops. Transports only authorized persons.
• Obeys all traffic laws and complies with all requirements of Transportation Department directives, Charter School Governing Board policies, and regulations of the State Board of Education.
• Adheres to assigned schedules, making every effort to be on time while ensuring safety. Notifies the proper authority in cases of mechanical failures, schedule deviations, or other incidents.
• Keeps assigned bus clean and presentable; keeps emergency exits clear of obstructions.
• Exercises responsible leadership and appropriate behavior when on all school trips.
• Maintains student discipline on the bus and enforces rules governing student conduct and regulations against smoking and eating on the bus. Reports undisciplined students to the proper school authority when necessary.
• Reports all accidents immediately; requests emergency services when needed, and completes required accident reports.
• Attends all required safety and training sessions including special needs training. Observes all mandatory safety regulations for school buses.
• Conducts required bus evaluation drills and implements evacuations as required in an emergency to include safely exiting the school bus.
• Completes required paperwork, including boarding and mileage records, and mechanical checklists.
• Attends assigned area meetings; attends parent and school conferences as requested.
• Works closely with and cooperates with other employees.
• Performs other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Alternatives to the minimum qualifications can be made by the Board as they find appropriate and acceptable. Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Experience: Two (2) years of experience driving a bus is preferred. Licenses and Certifications: Possession of a valid Driver's License for at least five (5) years, with proof of safe driving record. Possession of a valid Florida Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class B, with the appropriate school bus endorsement.

Additional Minimum Qualifications Required: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent driving skills.
• Ability to interact positively with students, and maintain discipline in a positive manner.
• Thorough knowledge of the methods and procedures pertaining to the specific duties of a school bus operator.
• Thorough knowledge of procedures, equipment, and supplies related to the transport of students.
• Considerable knowledge of local geography, including the location of roads and streets within the municipality.
• Considerable knowledge of the basic operating characteristics and service checks for school buses.
• Considerable knowledge of defensive driving techniques and the safety precautions applicable to student transportation.
• Ability to use independent judgment in relatively routine and stable situations.
• Ability to perform duties with consistent courtesy and tact in the best interest of the public.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions as necessary.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and others as necessitated by work assignments.
• Ability to comprehend, interpret, and apply regulations, procedures, and related information.
• General knowledge of reporting and record keeping principles and techniques.

Benefits

Health Insurance CSA paid employee coverage for all full time employees. Optional HMO or PPO plans available. Dependents can be added at group rates. Premium deductions are taken pre-tax. Basic Life Insurance CSA paid. Benefit is equal to twice annual base pay. Double benefit for accidental death. Optional Vision Insurance Employee paid insurance available at group rates, family plans available to employees. Premium deductions are taken pre-tax. Optional Dental Insurance Employee paid insurance available at group rates, family plans available to employees. Premium deductions are taken pre-tax. Supplemental Insurance Employees may purchase various types of supplemental insurance (life, AFLAC) at group rates through payroll deduction. Retirement Plan (FRS) Two plans available for members: Pension Plan (defined benefit) or the Investment Plan (defined contribution.) Charter School makes all contributions to the plan that you chose. Regular class: current eligibility to retire after 8 years of service and age 62 or 30 years of service regardless of age, whichever comes first. Long Term Disability CSA paid long term disability insurance. Leave Time (Sick, Vacation) Currently the employee accrues one day for each month worked. Block of hours which incorporate sick and vacation. Wellness Program City of Cape Coral sponsored program aimed at providing employee tools, resources, support, and education to improve overall well-being. Paid Holidays Currently the City of Cape Coral Oasis Charter Schools follows the School District of Lee County annual Instructional Calendar. Deferred Compensation Programs Tax-deferred savings plan available for retirement purposes. Employee contributes only. 457 – pre taxed deductions, your earnings accumulate tax-deferred, portable, no penalty for withdrawals. Payroll Direct Deposit Available to any banking institution or credit union. Suncoast Federal Schools Credit Union membership available to Charter School employees. Employee Assistance Program CSA paid availability to licensed professional counselors for non work related personal issues with 100% confidentiality.