Youth Passenger Van Driver

Job Description

Job Description

Youth Passenger Van Driver

FLSA Classification - Nonexempt

Hourly pay: $22.50

Job Type: Part-Time, On-Call

Reports to: Director of Operations

About Arts in Reach (AIR)

Arts in Reach (AIR) is a nonprofit creative youth development program dedicated to empowering teens through out-of-school art programs that inspire youth to be brave, elevate their voices, and create the lives they imagine. We provide free transportation to ensure all participants can access our programs in a safe and supportive environment. As the Youth Program Driver, you will be transporting the most precious cargo our AIR families have.

Job Summary

AIR is seeking a Youth Passenger Van Driver to safely transport teen participants throughout the Seacoast area of NH and Southern Maine to and from AIR programs, ensuring a welcoming and secure ride. This role involves picking up and dropping off participants at their homes or schools, following scheduled routes, and adjusting as needed. The ideal candidate is reliable, patient, and comfortable engaging with teens while maintaining professional boundaries. The hours are highly flexible depending on the time of year, school vacations, and special events. The schedule can vary from 0-5 days, though typically maintains 1-2 shifts/days (6-8 hours) a week, during non-school hours. Some on-call availability may be required for unexpected schedule changes or incidents.

Essential functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Safely operate a 12-15 passenger van to transport teens to and from AIR programs.
• Create routes and adapt to schedule changes as needed.
• Ensure all passengers adhere to safety guidelines, including seatbelt use.
• Remain open and affirming to all of our teens.
• Act as a good mentor and role model to van riders.
• Conduct basic vehicle inspections before and after trips (e.g., fuel levels, tire pressure, and lights).
• Communicate with AIR staff regarding transportation updates, delays, or concerns.
• Serve as a mandatory reporter, following all state-mandated procedures for child safety concerns.
• Participate in all requested training.
• Maintain confidentiality and respect participants’ privacy.
• Occasionally assist with loading/unloading program materials as needed.
• Uphold what parents/guardians say and never undermine them if you disagree.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record with no accidents in the previous three years.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some on-call shifts.
• Must pass a background check in accordance with state regulations.
• Ability to meet physical demands of driving, including sitting for extended periods, occasional lifting, and assisting passengers when necessary.
• Experience driving a 12-15 passenger van (preferred but not required).
• Previous experience working with teens, youth programs, or community services is a plus.
• Familiarity with mandatory reporting procedures (training provided if needed).

Work environment

• Primarily driving on city streets, highways, and residential areas in varying weather conditions. Routes are throughout Rockingham and Strafford counties.
• Regular interaction with teens, families, and AIR staff in a supportive, community-focused environment.
• Occasional exposure to traffic congestion, road hazards, and varying noise levels inside the vehicle.
• Dash cam and GPS allow recording of internal and external activities, location, and speed tracking.

Arts in Reach (AIR) is committed to building an empowering community—on the road and beyond! We celebrate and welcome people of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to be part of our mission. We believe creativity thrives in an environment of respect, equity, and representation, and we are dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and heard.