Transportation Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Description

Self Help Inc. is currently looking for a Head Start Transportation Specialist to join our team.

*****MUST BE ABLE TO DRIVE A SCHOOL BUS ALONG WITH SUPERVISING DRIVERS*****

Agency Profile

Self Help, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Action Agency (CAA) created to help families and individuals stabilize and secure their lives through education, strategic assistance, and building opportunities in their communities. We provide a range of services for families and households across Southeastern Massachusetts.

Job Summary

The Head Start Transportation Specialist is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable transportation of Head Start children to and from program sites and related activities within the Brockton, Massachusetts area. This position ensures compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) transportation regulations, and all applicable safety laws. The Transportation Specialist will work closely with families, drivers, monitors, and program staff to facilitate a positive and secure transportation experience for all children

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain efficient and safe transportation routes, considering student addresses, program schedules, traffic patterns, and safety regulations
• Regularly review and adjust routes as needed due to enrollment changes, address updates, or other factors
• Communicate route information, including pick-up and drop-off times and locations, clearly to families and transportation staff
• Utilize software or manual systems to plan and manage transportation routes and schedules
• Serve as a point of contact and resource for bus drivers and monitors, providing guidance, support, and addressing any transportation-related issues or concerns
• Assist with the recruitment, onboarding, and training of transportation staff in collaboration with program administration
• Monitor driver and monitor compliance with program policies, safety procedures, and all applicable regulations
• Facilitate communication between drivers/monitors and program staff regarding student needs or concerns
• Serve as the primary point of contact for families regarding transportation matters, addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and providing clear and timely information
• Communicate any transportation delays or changes to families promptly
• Work collaboratively with Family Advocates to address transportation barriers and support families in ensuring consistent attendance
• Ensure all transportation operations adhere to Head Start Performance Standards, Massachusetts EEC transportation regulations (606 CMR 7.00 et seq.), and all applicable local, state, and federal safety laws
• Maintain accurate records related to vehicle maintenance, driver certifications, background checks, and transportation incidents
• Conduct regular safety checks of vehicles and report any maintenance needs promptly
• Develop and implement emergency procedures for transportation and ensure all staff are trained on these procedures
• Investigate and document any transportation-related accidents or incidents according to program policy and regulatory requirements
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date transportation records, including route sheets, student ridership, attendance, and any transportation-related issues
• Prepare and submit required transportation reports to program administration and funding agencies as needed
• Utilize data to identify trends and areas for improvement in the transportation system
• Coordinate vehicle maintenance and repairs with designated vendors to ensure vehicles are safe and in good working order
• Maintain records of vehicle maintenance schedules and repairs
• Ensure compliance with vehicle inspection requirements
• Work closely with center directors, teachers, and family advocates to ensure smooth transitions for children between home, transportation, and the classroom
• Participate in program staff meetings and share relevant transportation updates
• Address and resolve transportation-related problems and concerns in a timely and effective manner
• Develop and implement solutions to improve the efficiency and safety of the transportation system

Other Requirements

• Must pass a criminal background check and other required clearances
• Must have or be willing to obtain CPR and First Aid certification
• Must meet the physical requirements of the position, including the ability to lift and carry young children, bend, stoop, and actively engage with children
• Must have a valid driver's license and a clean driving record
• Must comply with health requirements as mandated by Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) and any local health department regulations

Schedule

• Monday-Friday

Hourly Rate: $28-$35 per hour

Knowledge, Skills and abilities

• Knowledge of local traffic laws and regulations
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with families, staff, and transportation providers
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare reports
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards related to transportation
• Experience in training or providing guidance to transportation staff
• Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements may be required
• Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment 20 pounds occasionally

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate's degree in transportation management, logistics, or a related field preferred
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in transportation coordination, dispatching, or a related field, preferably in a school or childcare setting
• Experience using transportation routing and scheduling software

Self Help Inc offers a comprehensive employee benefits package:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• LTD
• FSA
• 403B
• Vacation Time
• Optional Time
• Sick Time
• Holidays
• Disability Benefits
• Life Insurance
• Direct Deposit

Self Help, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended, and should not be construed to be, an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. It is intended, however, to be an accurate reflection of those principal job elements essential for making decisions related to job performance, employee development and compensation. As such, the incumbent may perform other duties and responsibilities as required. Its contents imply no contractual obligation and may be changed by the agency at any time.