Benodjenh Center Bus Driver

SUMMARY

The Benodjenh Center Bus Driver is responsible for providing safe, reliable, and developmentally appropriate transportation services for children enrolled in Early Head Start, Head Start, and Child Care programs. This position plays a vital role in supporting daily program operations by ensuring children arrive to and from the Benodjenh Center in a timely, secure, and caring manner while maintaining strict adherence to transportation safety standards and program requirements.

The Bus Driver serves as a front-line representative of the Benodjenh Center and is expected to demonstrate professionalism, patience, and a child-centered approach at all times. Working closely with Center leadership, teaching staff, and families, this role supports student attendance, family engagement, and continuity of care. The position operates in compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, Tribal policies, and Department of Transportation regulations and requires strong attention to safety, punctuality, communication, and the ability to work effectively with young children in a structured educational environment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Must possess a valid Michigan Driver's License and ability to be insured under the GTB insurance carrier
• Must obtain and maintain a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Passenger ("P") and School Bus ("S") endorsements within the first twelve (12) months of employment, or sooner if required by program operations
• Must meet all Federal DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements
• Current CPR and First Aid certification for infants and children, or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire
• Previous school bus, passenger transportation, or childcare experience preferred
• Ability to work effectively with young children and families
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Safely transport children to and from the Benodjenh Center in accordance with established routes, schedules, and safety protocols.
• Ensure children are properly secured using age-appropriate restraints and safety equipment.
• Assist children during boarding and exiting the bus to ensure safe transitions; may have transfer them to the correct parents/guardians or teacher.
• Maintain constant awareness of children while on the bus and promptly report any unusual behavior, incidents, or concerns to Center staff and supervisor.
• Plan and follow assigned transportation routes to ensure no child remains on the bus longer than established program limits.
• Report to work promptly and reliably according to assigned schedules.
• Communicate delays, route changes, or transportation concerns to the Benodjenh Center Manager or designated staff.
• Support program operations through flexibility with split shifts or adjusted schedules as needed.
• Maintain compliance with GTB policies, Head Start Performance Standards, Michigan School Bus Driver requirements, and Department of Transportation regulations.
• Complete required documentation including attendance logs, route records, and incident reports.
• Conduct and document emergency evacuation drills as required each program year.
• Maintain required licensure, endorsements, and certifications.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding children, families, and program operations.
• Interact positively, respectfully and professionally with children, parents, staff, and community members.
• Assist Center staff with child transitions and communication with families as needed.
• Provide classroom aide support when not assigned to driving routes, including assisting teachers with supervision, activities, meals, rest periods, daily routines, and other classroom support.
• Support classroom operations by helping maintain a safe, clean, and organized learning environment.
• Keep bus clean and washed as necessary to maintain proper appearance and safety.
• Conduct pre-trip and post inspections of bus. Report any malfunction.
• Assist with monitoring children during indoor and outdoor activities and reinforce age-appropriate behavior expectations.
• Teach children and correct safety procedures for boarding and exiting a bus and danger zones around the bus.
• Work openly and cooperatively with classroom bus/aides.
• Provide additional operational support to Benodjenh Center programs as assigned, including coverage during staff absences or peak service periods.
• Adhere to all classroom policies and procedures outlined in program handbooks and operational guidelines.
• To follow all rules, regulations, and policies involving bus transportation, i.e., bus rules and parent handbook.
• Maintain necessary certifications by attending classes/training; must complete first aid training, CPR for infants and children, and other training assigned.
• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of Benodjenh Center educational programs.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrated ability to work calmly and effectively with young children.
• Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
• Ability to remain professional in stressful or time-sensitive situations.
• Strong attention to safety, detail, and punctuality.
• Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or GED
• Current CPR and First Aid certification for infants and children, or ability to obtain.
• Previous school bus, passenger transportation, and/or childcare experience preferred

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS

• Must possess a valid, unrestricted Michigan Driver's License and be insurable under GTB policy
• Must obtain and maintain a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Passenger ("P") and School Bus ("S") endorsements within the first twelve (12) months of employment, or sooner if required by program operations
• Must meet all Federal DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to pass a criminal history background investigation and drug and alcohol screening.
• Strict adherence to confidentiality, ethical standards, and GTB fiscal and personnel policies.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Must maintain supervision, with the assistance of the bus aides, of children on the bus at all times.

EQUIPMENT TO BE USED

• School bus and related safety equipment

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to assist children during boarding and exiting the bus.
• Ability to lift and carry young children when necessary.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while driving and remain alert at all times.

TYPICAL MENTAL DEMANDS

• Ability to remain focused and attentive while driving and supervising children.
• Ability to manage time-sensitive schedules and respond calmly in emergency situations.
• Ability to make quick, informed decisions related to child safety.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work performed primarily on designated transportation routes and within Benodjenh Center program environments.
• Exposure to varying weather and road conditions.
• Schedule may include split shifts and occasional schedule adjustments to support program needs.

COMMENTS

Native American Preference will apply. Must be willing and able to pass a criminal history background check with no felonies or serious misdemeanors and a drug and alcohol urinalysis as a condition of employment. Adherence to strict company policy in regard to confidentiality is required.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Management retains the right to add or to change the duties of the position at any time. * Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents in lieu of stated minimums require prior approval from the Director of Human Resources.

Current Openings for Benodjenh Center Bus Driver Jobs at Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians