Substitute School Bus Driver (On-Call)

Basic Function: Operate a school bus to transport students safely and efficiently to and from school, field trips, and special events using a designated route; participate in the routine cleaning and servicing of school buses.

Responsibilities

• Drive a school bus along a designated route, picking up and discharging students in accordance with established time schedules; observe legal and defensive driving practices; assure compliance with applicable traffic and student transportation laws, codes, and regulations.
• Maintain order and discipline among passengers on the bus and while waiting at bus stops in accordance with District policies related to disciplining students; escort students across streets.
• Conduct daily safety inspection of bus; inspect the interior, exterior, brakes, belts, engine, and other mechanical systems and safety belts of vehicle; report mechanical malfunctions or other problems as required.
• Participate in the routine cleaning and servicing of school buses; fuel and wash buses; check oil and fluid levels; clean windshield and headlamps; maintain bus in clean and safe operating condition.
• Adhere to established policies and procedures related to the release of special education students to teachers and parents.
• Transport students, faculty, and parents on field trips or to other events, meeting scheduled departure and arrival times as assigned.
• Determine appropriate action in potential or real medical emergency situations according to established guidelines; administer first aid as needed; conduct routine emergency evacuation drills as assigned.
• Prepare and maintain records and reports related to vehicle operation and condition; maintain routine records of mileage and student counts, conduct reports, and others as required.
• Communicate with parents and teachers and resolve issues or concerns as needed.
• Attend safety meetings and programs as assigned.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Knowledge Of:

• Safe and defensive driving practices.
• Proper operation of school buses.
• Provisions of the California Vehicle Code and Education Code applicable to the operation of vehicles in transporting students.
• First aid procedures.
• Policies and procedures related to the release of special education students to teachers and parents.
• Basic record-keeping techniques.
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.

Ability To:

• Drive a school bus safely and efficiently.
• Maintain bus in clean and proper working condition.
• Conduct safety inspections and perform routine preventive maintenance.
• Maintain safe discipline level among passengers.
• Learn and apply District policies and procedures related to student discipline.
• Observe legal and defensive driving practices.
• Learn and follow designated routes, stops, and time schedules.
• Read and interpret maps.
• Administer first aid to ill or injured children.
• Maintain routine records.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Communicate effectively with others.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.

Qualifications

• Any combination equivalent to: high school diploma or equivalent and responsible experience operating a school bus.
• Valid School Bus Driving Certificate.
• Valid medical certificate.
• First Aid certificate.

Incumbents in this classification are subject to completing and passing a California Highway Patrol examination. Incumbents must present and maintain a satisfactory driving record which ensures maintenance of liability insurance coverage.

Working Conditions

• School bus environment.
• Driving a vehicle to conduct work.
• Constant interruptions.

Physical Demands

• Sitting for extended periods of time when operating a transportation vehicle.
• Bending at the waist, kneeling, or crouching.
• Reaching, pulling, and pushing to open bus doors.
• Lifting moderately heavy objects.

Hazards

• Traffic hazards.
• Driving a vehicle during adverse weather conditions.