Transportation Driver

Position Summary:

The Transportation Driver is an important member of the Auxiliary Services team, responsible for providing safe, courteous, and efficient transportation services to students, faculty, staff, and visitors at Vanderbilt University. This role operates university vehicles, including standard vans, ADA-accessible vans, and mobility carts, to support scheduled shuttle services and on-demand mobility rides across campus. Transportation Drivers ensure high standards of customer service, safety, and accessibility while assisting passengers with diverse needs.

About the Work Unit:
Vanderbilt University Auxiliary Services works diligently to support the academic mission of the university. By offering innovative solutions, implementing sustainable business practices and leveraging strategic partnerships, Auxiliary Services helps deliver a world-class experience for Vanderbilt’s students, faculty, staff and campus visitors.  A progressive and collaborative team, Auxiliary Services takes a people-first approach to unlocking institutional efficiencies, enhancing revenue streams, and adding overall value to the Vanderbilt community.

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Transportation Services:

• Safely operate university vehicles, including vans, ADA-accessible vans, and mobility carts, in accordance with local, state, federal, and university regulations.
• Provide scheduled shuttle services and on-demand curb-to-curb mobility rides for approved passengers.
• Assist passengers with entering and exiting vehicles as needed, including proper operation of ADA vehicle lifts and securement of mobility devices.
• Maintain a thorough knowledge of campus buildings, garages, landmarks, and major streets.
• Adhere to scheduled routes and timelines, maintaining punctual service for campus community.
• Complete daily vehicle inspections, routine cleaning, fueling, and maintenance documentation in compliance with departmental protocols.
• Maintain a clean and welcoming shuttle/vehicle environment, inside and out.
• Report all accidents, hazards, policy violations, or unusual incidents promptly through the appropriate channels.

Customer Service and Community Engagement

• Deliver professional and respectful customer service to all members of the university community.
• Engage courteously with passengers, answer questions about transportation services, and provide clear communication about routes and timing.
• Assist disabled and mobility-impaired passengers with care and discretion.
• Participate in community relations and public safety efforts as directed, such as providing walking escorts or assisting at campus events.
• Support efforts related to the university’s parking operations, including assistance during annual parking permit registration.

Campus and Safety Support

• Maintain familiarity with the university's disaster response plans and assist in emergency operations when needed.
• Observe and report suspicious, hazardous, or unusual behavior or situations.
• May assist in non-criminal activity reporting in accordance with university procedures.
• Support medical personnel as requested during emergencies, including helping with transportation or de-escalation if necessary.

Supervisory Relationships:
This position reports directly to the Supervisor of Transportation Services and does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Education and Certifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.
• Must pass a background check in compliance with the standards outlined by the State of Tennessee’s Private Protective Services Act.

Experience and Skills:

• Prior experience in transportation, public safety, or a similar role preferred.
• 1-2 years of professional driving experience (passenger transit, shuttle-type vehicles) preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills are required.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and courteous under pressure or in challenging situations.
• Competency using electronic dispatch systems, GPS, and two-way radio communication.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong reliability – punctual, dependable and flexible with hours.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to walk independently without assistance and navigate campus terrain safely.
• Must be able to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds routinely.
• Must be able to sit and stand for prolonged periods, climb in and out of vehicles, and perform repetitive motion activities as required by vehicle operation.
• Must meet departmental appearance and grooming standards.

Working Environment:

• Required to work nights, weekends, and holidays, including during peak academic periods and special events.
• Must be able to perform duties in a variety of outdoor weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme heat or cold.
• May occasionally be exposed to physical risks in the course of supporting public safety or medical incidents.

Working Hours:

5:00pm - 1:30am (Friday through Tuesday)

Shift Differential and Overtime opportunities