Substitute/On-Call Bus Driver

Substitute Bus Driver

The Bus Driver is responsible for the safe, efficient, and timely transportation of students to and from school-related activities and approved field trips in accordance with district policies, state regulations, and safety standards. This position plays a critical role in student safety, compliance with Ohio pupil transportation laws, and daily district operations.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience as a licensed motor vehicle operator
• Valid Ohio Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class B with School Bus and Passenger (SP) endorsement
• Successful completion of required physical examinations and drug/alcohol testing
• Meet all standards established by the Ohio Department of Education and State of Ohio
• Acceptable driving record as verified by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in school transportation or large vehicle operation
• Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with children of all ages

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Primary functions may include the following duties, responsibilities, skills, abilities, and other characteristics. This list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of tasks performed by all positions within this classification.

Student Transportation and Safety

• Safe Transport: Safely transport students to and from assigned bus stops, schools, athletic events, and field trips in accordance with route sheets and schedules.
• Behavior Management: Maintain proper student behavior and enforce district safety procedures while operating the bus.
• Specialized Restraints: Secure preschool and students with disabilities using appropriate restraints; operate wheelchair lifts when equipped.
• Emergency Training: Train students on emergency evacuation procedures and participate in emergency drills.

Vehicle Operation and Inspection

• Daily Inspections: Conduct required pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure the bus is safe and operational.
• Maintenance Reporting: Identify and report mechanical issues, safety hazards, or maintenance needs to transportation staff.
• Interior Upkeep: Maintain cleanliness of the bus interior, including trash removal and basic cleaning.

Compliance and Documentation

• Record Keeping: Complete required documentation including inspection reports, route sheets, incident reports, and state-mandated forms.
• Regulatory Adherence: Comply with Ohio Department of Education pupil transportation rules, CDL regulations, and district policies.
• Testing and Training: Participate in required physicals, drug and alcohol testing, and ongoing training.

Communication and Professional Conduct

• Stakeholder Interaction: Communicate effectively with transportation supervisors, school staff, parents, and students.
• Radio Usage: Use two-way radio and other communication tools appropriately and professionally.
• Emergency Response: Respond calmly and appropriately in stressful or emergency situations.

Additional Duties

• Scheduling Flexibility: Drive additional routes or trips as assigned, including athletic events and extracurricular activities.
• Peer Support: Assist with training new drivers as requested.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Ohio Pupil Transportation Safety Rules and Procedures.
• Ohio motor vehicle and CDL regulations.
• School bus operations, safety equipment, and emergency procedures.

Skilled in:

• Safe operation of a school bus in varied traffic and weather conditions.
• Managing student behavior in a professional and calm manner.
• Completing required documentation accurately and timely.
• Communicating clearly with students, parents, staff, and supervisors.

Ability to:

• Maintain focus and sound judgment in high-responsibility situations.
• Enforce safety rules consistently and fairly.
• Work effectively with students of diverse ages and abilities.
• Recognize vehicle issues and respond appropriately.
• Read route sheets, maps, and written instructions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORKING CONDITIONS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions in keeping with law.

Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate with others. The employee is required to sit or stand and move around for extended periods of time. While performing the duties of this job the employee must be able to push, pull, lift and carry over 25 pounds on occasion.

Working Conditions The employee in this position may experience occasional exposure to blood, bodily fluids and tissue. The employee may also be required to interact with unruly children.

Driving Requirement This position requires driving a commercial vehicle as a primary job function.

This job description is subject to change and in no manner states or implies that these are the only duties and responsibilities to be performed by the employee. The employee will be required to follow the instructions and perform the duties required by the employee's supervisor and or appointing authority.