Position Summary
The School Bus Driver is responsible for safely transporting students to and from school, activities, and other authorized destinations while maintaining a safe, respectful, and positive environment. The driver is responsible for operating the school bus in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and district laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Safely operate a school bus on assigned routes and schedules.
- Transport students to and from school, athletic events, field trips, and other authorized activities.
- Follow all traffic laws, Oregon Department of Education requirements, and district transportation policies.
- Conduct required pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the school bus and report any mechanical or safety concerns promptly.
- Maintain order and appropriate student behavior while students are on the bus.
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with students, staff, parents, and community members.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding student information.
- Follow assigned bus routes and schedules and communicate any changes or delays to the appropriate district personnel.
- Assist students in safely entering and exiting the bus.
- Ensure students are safely seated and follow all applicable safety procedures.
- Complete required transportation records, reports, inspections, and documentation.
- Maintain a clean and orderly bus interior and report maintenance needs.
- Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow established emergency procedures.
- Participate in required training, meetings, and safety programs.
- Maintain required certifications and qualifications for school bus operation.
- Perform other transportation-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Must meet all requirements established by the State of Oregon for school bus drivers.
- Valid Oregon Commercial Driver License (CDL) with required school bus and passenger endorsements, or the ability to obtain one.
- Must meet all applicable requirements for a School Bus Driver Certificate.
- Must successfully complete required background checks, drug and alcohol testing, physical examination, and driving record review as required by law and district policy.
- Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, staff, and administrators.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and remain calm in stressful or emergency situations.
- Ability to maintain appropriate student supervision and discipline while operating the bus.
- Previous experience working with children or in a transportation-related position is preferred but not required.
Physical Requirements
The employee must be able to:
- Sit for extended periods while operating a school bus.
- Safely assist students entering and exiting the bus.
- Bend, stoop, reach, and perform other movements necessary to inspect and operate the bus.
- Respond quickly and appropriately to emergency situations.
- Safely perform required pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
Work Environment
Work is primarily performed in a school bus and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, traffic, road conditions, noise, and other transportation-related hazards. The position may require early morning, afternoon, evening, or occasional weekend work depending on assigned routes and extracurricular activities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
South Wasco County School District #1 is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to applicable protected characteristics under federal, state, or local law.
Must have a clean driving record and have or be able to obtain a CDL, ODE Bus Driver Certification, and First Aid-CPR card.
Some training will be provided. Candidate should have good communication skills, be flexible, and be team-oriented.