About the Role
The Bus Driver is responsible for safely transporting students to and from various Gersh locations, vocational programs, work sites, and approved school-related activities. This role requires a strong understanding of student safety, transportation procedures, and the needs of individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring a safe and supportive environment during transit.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate transportation schedules with the Vocational Coordinator.
- Safely transport students to and from vocational programs, work sites, field trips, and other approved school-related activities.
- Comply with all applicable New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, safety standards, and vehicle inspection requirements.
- Conduct roll call and verify student attendance before departure and upon return when support staff is not assigned.
- Confirm all expected students have boarded and exited the vehicle safely and report attendance discrepancies.
- Ensure students are properly seated, secured, and supervised during transportation.
- Operate assigned vehicles safely and in compliance with traffic laws, DMV regulations, and organizational policies.
- Conduct required pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections and report maintenance issues.
- Maintain communication with the school office regarding transportation delays, route changes, or emergencies.
- Assist students with entering and exiting the vehicle and using safety equipment.
- Respond appropriately to medical emergencies, accidents, or student injuries.
- Immediately report suspected abuse, neglect, unsafe conditions, or other reportable incidents.
- Complete all required documentation, logs, incident reports, and inspections accurately.
- Maintain the cleanliness and general condition of assigned vehicles.
- Maintain effective communication with supervisors and team members.
- Maintain confidentiality of student, employee, and organizational information.
- Perform assigned duties in accordance with Gersh Autism policies and procedures.
- Demonstrate professionalism and uphold the mission, vision, and Core Values of Gersh Autism.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Must pass a drug test and background check.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Skills
- Strong understanding of student safety.
- Knowledge of transportation procedures.
- Understanding of the needs of individuals on the autism spectrum.
- Effective communication skills.
- Safe driving record.
- Ability to meet New York State licensing and transportation requirements.
- Eligibility for organization's vehicle insurance.
- Ability to implement CPI (therapeutic holds) procedures.
- Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety.
- Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quickly.
- Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environment.
- Ability to multi-task and shift priorities quickly.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Ability to maintain professional relationships.
- Ability to perform duties under stress.
Location
- New York
Work Type
- Full-time
Experience Level
- Not specified
Education Level
- High school diploma or GED equivalent preferred.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package.
- Comprehensive health benefits (Medical, Dental & Vision).
- Retirement Plan (401k matching).
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D).
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity).
- Short-Term & Long-Term Disability.
- Training & Development.
- Supportive work environment.
About the Company
- Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth.
