Paratransit Driver

Position Summary
Suffolk Bus Corp. is seeking dedicated Paratransit Drivers to join our team. This full-time position offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to work for a company committed to safe and reliable passenger transportation. Paratransit Drivers are responsible for assisting passengers on and off vehicles, including the loading, unloading, and securing of wheelchairs, while delivering exceptional customer service.

Salary Range: $28.20 – $30.68 per hour
Schedule: Full-time; varying shifts based on seniority
Benefits: Medical, paid time off, 401(k)

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Responsibilities

• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure vehicles and on-board equipment are in proper operating condition.

• Operate assigned routes in accordance with scheduled manifests, transfer points, and fare structures.

• Follow route maps, schedules, and dispatch instructions for pull-outs, line service, pull-ins, and off-route trips.

• Provide route, schedule, and fare information to passengers as needed.

• Deliver excellent customer service by safely operating wheelchair lifts and assisting passengers with boarding, riding, and exiting the vehicle, ensuring proper use of on-board restraints.

• Communicate effectively with dispatch using a two-way radio.

• Report hazardous or unsafe conditions along routes and at passenger loading zones, including traffic issues, road conditions, construction, obstructions, and potential criminal activity.

• Adapt to changing conditions such as adverse weather, traffic delays, passenger concerns, accidents, and trip modifications.

• Adhere to all safety rules, regulations, policies, and procedures to ensure passenger and workplace safety.

• Promote and maintain a safe work environment in compliance with Suffolk Transportation Service and Suffolk Bus Corp. safety policies.

• Provide assistance at accident or incident scenes as required.

• May mentor new paratransit operators on routes and operating procedures.

• Provide vacation and temporary coverage when needed.

• Perform other related duties of a similar nature and level as assigned.

• Maintain physical presence at the work site as required.

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Knowledge & Skills

• Knowledge of state and local traffic laws, ordinances, and vehicle safety regulations.

• Basic understanding of time and money concepts.

• Ability to read, write, and speak basic English.

• Ability to communicate courteously and effectively with passengers, coworkers, and supervisors.

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Qualifications

• Ability to pass a pre-employment physical, including a DOT medical card and DOT drug screening.

• Must be at least 23 years of age with a minimum of one year of passenger-driving experience.

• No convictions for driving while license is suspended or revoked.

• Availability to work varying shifts; assignments based on seniority.

• Willingness to attend required employee meetings, safety sessions, and training.

• Maintain regular and predictable attendance.

• Ability to perform assigned tasks safely while remaining alert at all times.

• Ability to work cooperatively with coworkers and supervisors.

• Demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to safety management principles.