Bus Driver

About the role

Operate a vehicle and transport passengers in a safe, efficient, courteous, and timely manner in accordance with schedules and instructions determined by TJA management and furnished by dispatch. Represent TJA to the school districts, community, and the public in a professional, courteous, and serving manner. Work within the TJA Mission Statement and procedure framework as outlined in the Vehicle Operator/Attendant Employee Handbook and the contract between TJA and the Crystal Lake Transportation Union (CLTU).

Responsibilities

Primary Job Function For Drivers Of All Routes

• Report on time and begin route or trip when scheduled
• Conduct a thorough pre-trip vehicle inspection in accordance with Department of Transportation regulations
• Note vehicle problems/service requirements that may occur during a route or trip and turn in a pre-trip form before leaving the facility
• Report vehicle problems/service requirements on the appropriate form
• Operate a vehicle in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, and TJA procedures
• Read and follow procedures contained in the Employee Handbook
• Meet standards of dress as outlined in the Employee Handbook
• Responsible for passenger management and timely reporting of incidents, accidents, and student conduct reports
• Communicate by two-way radio when necessary
• Communicate professionally and effectively with school personnel, students, parents, and the general public
• Fuel, sweep, and clean the vehicle
• Be prepared mentally and physically to perform safety-sensitive functions on a daily basis
• Maintain and demonstrate a helpful, positive, and pleasant attitude toward fellow co-workers, other school district employees, and the general public

Responsibility Of Special Education Drivers

• Operate lift to board and discharge special needs passengers
• Be physically capable to load/unload passengers
• Responsible for the proper securing of wheelchairs, harnesses, seatbelts, car seats, and booster seats
• Responsible for the supervision of bus attendant assigned to their route

Substitute Drivers

• Be available for all assignments including routes, trips, and miscellaneous duties during scheduled time periods
• Be able to drive all vehicles and routes

Occasional Subs

• Be available for routes or trips as needed
• Be able to drive all types of vehicles

Secondary Job Functions For All Drivers

• Other related duties as assigned

Requirements

• Acquire and maintain a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with all appropriate endorsements, classifications, and all other required licenses and permits
• Comply with federal, state, and municipal rules, regulations, and procedures relative to the operation of the vehicle
• Possess the skills to read and interpret schedules, trip tickets, and other documents
• Possess the writing and reading skills necessary to accurately complete schedules, trip tickets, and other documents
• Possess basic mathematics
• Possess clear and understandable verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate by two-way radio
• Possess the ability to complete all pertinent driver training sessions including required in-service meetings
• Possess the ability to work efficiently and patiently under pressure and stressful conditions

Work Conditions

Most activity of this position takes place inside of the vehicle. Outside activity would include pre-trip inspections, fueling, and loading of special needs passengers. Noise levels can be high from outside traffic and passengers. There is exposure to dust and vehicle fumes. Climate conditions include cold, heat, humidity, and inclement weather. Physical labor may be involved when loading/unloading wheelchairs or special needs passengers requiring exerting leverage, pushing, pulling, and securing passengers.

Pay

Hourly Rate: $25.97/hr for the 2025/26 school year. New agreement currently in negotiations.

Benefits

• Eligible for paid time off benefits
• Eligible for medical insurance benefits