Transporter
Division: Tribal Affairs | Department: Transit | Reports To: Transit Manager/Lead Transporter | Location: Open | Type: Full-time, Non-exempt | Tribal Council Approval: 04/06/2026
About the role
The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is a federally recognized Tribe with its ancestral homeland located in Niobrara, NE. The Tribe does not have a reservation in the classic definition; rather, the Ponca Restoration Act defined its jurisdiction as a “Service Delivery Area” comprised of 15 counties throughout parts of Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota. Within its Service Delivery Area, the Tribe offers a broad range of health, social, educational, and cultural services. The incumbent will be primarily responsible for meeting the transportation needs of Ponca Tribe of Nebraska citizens and the public, including persons with disabilities.
Responsibilities
- Provide transportation for Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members and the public, including persons with disabilities, in a cheerful, pleasant, and professional manner.
- Operate vehicles, wheelchair lifts/securements, computers, cell phones, scheduling software, and other equipment as necessary.
- Assist passengers to and from the vehicle.
- Maintain a clean and presentable vehicle according to policy or direction of supervisor.
- Maintain appropriate monthly records and reports.
- Work closely and cooperatively with Ponca Tribe of Nebraska staff to meet transportation needs.
- Follow a planned route according to a time schedule.
- Track when passengers get on/off the vehicle via transportation software.
- Collect fares for each transport as applicable and maintain proper record keeping.
- Continuously learn and implement all new procedures, regulations, and requirements.
- Drive in adverse weather conditions as needed.
- Inspect vehicles at the beginning of each day.
- Maintain or attain CPR and First Aid certification.
- Attend and complete Passenger and Safety Securement, Defensive Driving, Distracted Driving, and Drug & Alcohol Awareness courses.
- Follow the drug and alcohol policy and testing requirements.
- Know and follow the mission, organization, program requirements, and policies of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska.
- Maintain complete confidentiality and honor the Privacy Act.
- Respect the rights, dignity, and privacy of riders.
- Be well versed in and abide by transportation laws, rules, and regulations.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Minimum
- High school diploma or GED.
- Able to obtain First Aid, CPR, and Defensive Driving Course certification within one year, if not already certified.
- Excellent oral communication skills.
- Valid driver’s license and be insurable.
- Successfully pass drug and alcohol testing, motor vehicle, education, character, and criminal background checks.
- Able and willing to travel.
Preferred
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
- First Aid, CPR, and Defensive Driving Course certified.
- One year experience working with Native Americans or Native American organizations.
Preference will be given to Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members or members of a federally recognized tribe. However, all qualified individuals are eligible.
Working Environment and Physical Demands
Minimum to high stress due to many scheduled activities. The position requires sitting, standing, bending, lifting, twisting, and moving intermittently during work hours. Must be able to work with the ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset, and at times hostile people. Physical requirements include carrying/lifting up to 5 pounds frequently, up to 10 pounds regularly, and up to 50 pounds occasionally. Visual acuity, speech and hearing, hand and eye coordination, and manual dexterity necessary to drive an automobile and operate computer keyboard and basic office equipment; subject to carrying, lifting, twisting, and reaching to perform essential job functions. Working conditions are primarily in an office environment and/or vehicle.
Pay
Grade 5, Starting Wage $16.50 per hour
The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is an at-will employer.