A Bus Driver drives buses and transport passengers along a designated route. Works for a city public transit system, regional bus company, or school district.
Event/Field-Trip Driver (Short Bus & Special Routes)
Reports To:
Director of Maintenance & Transportation Employment Type:
As Needed/Hourly - for special events, field trips, athletics, and special-education routes Position Summary The Event/Field-Trip Driver will safely and professionally operate smaller district-owned vehicles (short buses) for transportation of students and staff for special events, field trips, athletic competitions, special-education routes, and other non-regular daily routes. The driver supports the district's commitment to student-centered excellence, community partnership, and fiscal & facility stewardship, ensuring the "Laker Pride" brand is upheld on and off the road. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Operate assigned vehicle on scheduled special event trips, extra-curricular activities, field trips, special-education transport, athletics, and other non-daily bus routes, ensuring safety and compliance with all applicable laws, policies and procedures. Conduct and document pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections to identify and report maintenance issues. Manage student boarding, seating, and exiting procedures; ensure proper securement of students with mobility needs or specialized equipment. Monitor student behavior during transport, maintain order, intervene when needed, and report incidents to the Transportation Director. Follow approved route schedules, comply with time constraints, and adjust as directed while keeping communication with the Transportation Director. Maintain accurate records of trip mileage, vehicle usage, student counts, and any incident or behavior reports. Participate in required safety training, annual safety meetings and refresher courses (e.g., CPR/First Aid, safety training, evacuation drills). Maintain cleanliness and order of the vehicle interior after each trip; ensure equipment and seat belts/harnesses are functioning. Assist in special transportation assignments as needed (e.g., emergency evacuations, community partnership events). Adhere to district and state drug/alcohol testing policies, background screening, and driving‐record requirements. Serve as a positive ambassador for the district—model professional and remain student‐centered, showing pride and presence in every assignment. Qualifications Valid Indiana driver's license in good standing. Indiana Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements is preferred, but not required for all routes. Applicants with a valid Indiana driver's license or Public Passenger Chauffeur's license may also be considered for smaller vehicles or special event routes, pending district approval and compliance with Indiana Code § 20-27-8-1. Minimum 21 years of age. High School Diploma or GED (preferred). Excellent driving record, reliable, punctual, with strong safety awareness. Demonstrated ability to work with students of all ages and abilities—including those with special needs and/or mobility devices. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions; strong communication skills. Physical ability to assist students and safely perform required duties (lifting up to 50 lbs, assisting with wheelchair securement, evacuation procedures, etc.). Must pass district-required background check, drug/alcohol screening, DOT physical (as required for CDL or chauffeur license) and any required pre‐service training.
Preferred:
prior experience driving school‐ or activity‐type vehicles, field trips, or transporting student groups. Working Conditions Work performed in a district vehicle for variable hours, including early mornings, late evenings, and occasional weekends or overnight trips. Work may involve weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow) while loading/unloading students. Split schedule common; flexibility required for special assignments. Must adhere to district transportation schedules and respond to assignments with limited advance notice. Evaluation Performance will be evaluated by the Director of Maintenance & Transportation via established district evaluation procedures—focusing on safety record, professionalism, student management, communication, and adherence to policies.