Van Driver

Job Description

Job Description

Classification: Full-time, Non-Exempt
Reports to: Director of Program Operations
Location: Bronx, NY
Status & Hours: Full-time shift position. The schedule will be determined by the needs of the shelter. Occasional late shifts may be required to transport clients to events and appointments. Lantern staff may be asked to adjust their work schedule depending on the operational needs of the site.

Who We Are: Lantern Community Services helps New Yorkers impacted by homelessness move from surviving to thriving by pairing safe, supportive housing with wraparound services that build lasting stability and independence. If you believe a steady home can be the start of everything else, you'll fit right in with our mission-first team. Lantern was also recognized as a Top 2025 Workplace by City & State New York — a great place to do meaningful work with people who care!

Where You Will Work: Hudson Bay is a brand-new, all-female shelter in the Bronx housing 200 women aged 55 and older.

About the Role: Lantern Community Services is seeking a full-time Driver with a professional demeanor who will be responsible for the safe driving and escorting of shelter clients to and from appointments in a wheelchair-accessible nine-passenger van. The Driver is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the vehicle and ensuring it is kept in good working condition. The Driver will also coordinate client transportation with Residential Aides and Case Management staff at the shelter.

Essential Functions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Safely drive and escort shelter clients to and from medical appointments, community events, and other scheduled outings.
• Coordinate with Case Management and Residential staff in advance to confirm appointment schedules, route changes, and any specific client needs.
• Ensure a welcoming, respectful, and professional atmosphere on the van at all times.
• Assist clients when entering and exiting the vehicle, providing physical support as needed.
• Ensure all passengers have seat belts on at all times while the vehicle is in motion.
• Communicate proactively with supervisors regarding schedule changes, delays, or client no-shows.
• Respond calmly and professionally to client behavioral concerns or emergencies during transport.
• Maintain a daily trip log documenting client transports, mileage, destinations, and any incidents.
• Adhere to all NYC traffic laws and Lantern vehicle use policies at all times.
• Perform daily routine safety checks and pre-trip inspections on the assigned vehicle.
• Maintain cleanliness of the vehicle inside and out through routine wiping down, mopping, and regular car washes.
• Ensure the vehicle is kept in good working condition by scheduling and tracking routine maintenance.
• Report vehicle breakdowns, malfunctions, or routing issues to the Director of Program Operations in a timely manner.
• Report all traffic incidents and accidents immediately to the Director of Program Operations or their designee.
• Report concerns about client stability to the Director of Social Services or their designee promptly.
• Deliver client belongings to other sites as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Valid New York State driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Minimum of one year of institutional driving experience.
• Experience driving a nine-seat passenger vehicle or larger.
• Ability to engage respectfully with vulnerable populations.
• Experience working in a shelter or social services setting preferred.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Work Environment: This position operates within a shelter serving individuals who may experience mental illness, substance use, disability, HIV/AIDS, and other chronic health conditions.

Physical Demands: This role requires extended periods of sitting while operating a vehicle. The employee must be able to assist clients entering and exiting the van, which may include bending, reaching, and providing physical support. The employee must also be able to stand, walk, and climb stairs as needed when escorting clients. Regular use of hands for driving and vehicle operation is required. The employee must have adequate vision for safe driving, including close, distance, peripheral, and color vision, as well as depth perception. Occasional lifting and/or moving of up to 25 pounds may be required when transporting client belongings. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

Other Duties: Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Lantern Community Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. Lantern values the diversity of our clients, staff, Board of Directors, and partners. By bringing diverse individuals and viewpoints together, we create more vibrant, healthy, and just communities.