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ADA Van Driver

Government Jobs, Gastonia, NC, United States


ADA Paratransit Driver

The ADA Paratransit Driver is responsible for providing safe, courteous, and reliable door-to-door transportation services to individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) requirements. This position requires a high level of customer service, adherence to schedules, and sensitivity to the needs of passengers with mobility and cognitive impairments.
Essential Functions/Duties:
Safely operate accessible paratransit vehicles on assigned routes and schedules.
Provide assistance to passengers boarding and exiting vehicles, including operating wheelchair lifts and securing mobility devices.
Ensure adherence to all ADA service requirements, including reasonable accommodation, proper passenger assistance, passenger safety protocol, and maintain passenger confidentiality at all times.
Accurately document pickup/drop-off times, passenger counts, odometer readings, and incidents using electronic or paper manifests.
Communicate effectively with dispatch and supervisors regarding delays, emergencies, or route issues.
Maintain a professional and respectful demeanor with all passengers, caregivers, and coworkers.
Report any accidents, safety incidents, or service issues in accordance with agency policy and FTA reporting requirements.
Perform daily pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections and report any maintenance concerns immediately.
Attend training sessions, including ADA sensitivity, defensive driving, and other training as required.
As needed, assist with general administrative duties in the transit office, including answering phones, scheduling rides, or handling walk-in customers.
Perform light cleaning and sanitation of transit vehicles to maintain cleanliness and appearance.
Support other duties as assigned by supervisory staff, particularly during staffing shortages or operational needs.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
Ability to communicate effectively and compassionately with individuals with disabilities and older adults
Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and in accordance with confidentiality requirements
Ability to maintain accurate records and communicate clearly, both orally and in writing. Knowledge of local geography, traffic laws, and safe driving practices
Ability to operate or be trained to operate ADA-accessible vehicles and equipment, including wheelchair securement systems
Ability to maintain composure and make sound decisions in emergency situations.
Education/Experience/Physical Demands/Special Requirements/Additional Information:
Education and Experience: Graduation from high school or equivalent. Minimum one (1) year professional driving experience preferred; public transit driving experience is a plus. Must possess a valid North Carolina Class B Commercial Driver's License, P Endorsement. Complete NIMS IS 700 training within one year of hire.
Special Requirements: CDL with P Endorsement.
CHECKLIST FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS, VISUAL ACUITY, AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
1. The physical activity of this position includes: Stooping, Kneeling, Crouching, Reaching, Standing, Walking, Lifting, Fingering, Grasping, Feeling, Talking, Hearing, Repetitive Motions.
2. The physical requirements of this position: Office Environment Work.
3. The visual acuity requirements including color, depth perception and field of vision: The worker is required to have visual acuity to perform one or more of the following: preparing and analyzing data and figures; accounting; transcription; computer terminal; extensive reading.
4. The conditions the worker will be subject to in this position: A. The worker is subject to inside environmental conditions; B. The worker is subject to both environmental conditions; C. The worker is subject to extreme cold; D. The worker is subject to extreme heat; E. The worker is subject to noise; F. The worker is subject to hazards; G. The worker is subject to atmospheric conditions; H. The worker is subject to oils.
Drug screening and criminal background checks required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The City of Gastonia is committed to creating and maintaining a work environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming. We value diversity and promise to honor your experiences, perspective and unique identity. The City of Gastonia is an Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/H.