Bus Driver

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.