Job Title Performs work in the operation of an agency transit vehicle to assure safe transport of passengers to and from various destinations. An employee in this class drives a CARTS agency transit vehicle over a scheduled route to transport passengers to various locations throughout a designated service area. Work is primarily transporting passengers to and from medical facilities, grocery stores, pharmacies, human service agencies, place of employment, congregate meal sites, dialysis centers, and other desired locations. Additional responsibilities include maintaining a variety of records such as time at each stop, number of passengers, and mileage. Independent judgment must be exercised in handling unusual situations arising with passengers. Employee is supervised by the CARTS Director or the Assistant Director and work is reviewed through observation and review of records which may include the video and audio recording equipment located on each vehicle.
Essential Functions:
Drives an assigned route to transport passengers which includes individuals who are children, elderly, disabled, special needs, and the public in general. Must be able to use de-escalation techniques when dealing with an aggressive individual. Assumes responsibility for the care of the assigned vehicle, including cleanliness of the interior of the vehicle and performing pre/post trip inspections. Drivers may also be expected to disinfect surface areas on the interior of the vehicle. Drives vehicle to specified locations for maintenance and repair. Maintains an accurate and detailed record of time worked for departmental purposes including payroll reporting. Assist ambulatory passengers in getting in and out of the transit vehicle by offering a specifically positioned elbow for the passenger to use as support. Drivers are not allowed to pull, push, lift, or otherwise physically handle a passenger. Assist passengers who use wheelchairs by pushing the wheelchair, if needed, and properly securing both the wheelchair and the passenger using the vehicle securement devices. Performs related duties as assigned.
Minimum Education and Experience:
Possession of a valid driver's license issued by the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles and minimum of five years driving experience is required. Applicant cannot have any points on driving record in the three (3) years prior to application. Applicant must authorize verification of driving record as well as a criminal background check. Driving history and/or criminal background information may affect eligibility for this position. Subject to SBI criminal history record check prior to hire. Subject to pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Transportation Administration guidelines and local CARTS policy.
Additional Information
Physical Requirements:
Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including automobiles, vans, light trucks, small buses, and accessibility equipment. Must be able to exert enough force occasionally to push a passenger in a wheelchair to include up/down an accessibility ramp, and up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Must be able to assist passengers from the vehicle during an emergency evacuation. Physical demand requirements are for Light Work. However, instances occur in transporting disabled persons that require physical demands rated at Medium Work.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Working knowledge of the rules and regulations involved in the safe and efficient operation of automotive equipment. Some knowledge of basic automotive procedures. Ability to deal effectively and patiently with the general public, including the elderly and/or disabled. Ability to operate a car, van, and small bus. Ability to perform vehicle pre-trip and post-trip inspections which include but are not limited to checking vehicle fluid levels, lights, tires, items left behind, and damage. Ability to exercise tact and courtesy in dealing with the public and other personnel. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Ability to read a map to find designated locations and/or follow GPS directional instructions. Ability to communicate using a two-way radio.
