Paratransit Operator - Full Time

The Paratransit Operator is responsible for ensuring the safe, dependable, and courteous transportation of passengers. This role involves conducting pre-trip inspections, operating TARTA vehicles, assisting passengers with special needs, and adhering strictly to safety regulations.

TARTA has recently embarked on a transformational journey with the passage of Issue 12 in 2021. This local sales tax levy has significantly increased the local investment into the transit authority and has also expanded its service area to all of Lucas County and the City of Rossford in Wood County. In response to the local community’s renewed focus and support of TARTA, the Board adopted TARTA Next, a ten-year plan to increase services, invest in capital assets such as new mobility hubs and a zero-emissions bus fleet, and to improve customer experience through investments in technology, bus shelters and signage, and customer outreach. This transformation is well underway and powered by a dedicated team of professionals in each department from the leadership team to every front-line team member.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct daily pre-trip inspections and accurately complete inspection forms.
• Operate TARTA vehicles safely to transport passengers along designated routes.
• Maintain order and enforce safety rules throughout the duration of trips.
• Adhere strictly to appropriate route schedules.
• Aid passengers with mobility devices, including securing seat belts, hook-ups, and harnesses.
• Record daily rider attendance for reporting purposes.
• Ensure compliance with traffic regulations, as well as TARTA policies and procedures.
• Securely fasten seat belts, hook-ups, and harnesses on mobility devices.
• Report any maintenance issues promptly and ensure the cleanliness of the vehicle interior.
• Report accidents and incidents as required.
• Report any traffic violations involving personal and TARTA vehicles.
• Attend driver meetings and relevant training workshops.
• Undertake any other related duties as directed.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in operating agency vehicles.
• Excellent communication skills and attentive listening abilities.
• Thorough understanding of laws and regulations governing vehicle operation.
• Capacity to follow oral and written instructions effectively.
• Sound judgment, particularly in emergency situations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to foster positive relationships.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality protocols.
• Physical capability to lift, lower, and maneuver items weighing up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.

Minimum Qualifications

A combination of education and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

• Valid vehicle operator’s license with fewer than 6 points on current Driver's Abstract.
• Completion of required driver training and refresher courses.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or G.E.D.
• Three (3) consecutive years of licensed driving experience.

Special Conditions

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be satisfied by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. TARTA provides reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The job entails exposure to medical and behavioral risks that are inherent in transporting passengers. Additionally, work conditions may involve exposure to inclement weather and potentially hazardous street conditions.

Working Conditions

The work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job including close exposure to computer monitors and video screens. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The working conditions for someone operating a TARPS vehicle involve spending extended periods driving, often in varying weather conditions and potentially encountering hazardous road conditions. This role may also entail exposure to medical and behavioral risks inherent in transporting passengers, along with the responsibility of ensuring their safety throughout the journey. Additionally, operators must be prepared to handle emergencies and adhere to strict safety protocols while maintaining a friendly and professional demeanor with passengers.

Physical Effort Required

The Paratransit Operator position requires occasional sitting and driving (0.25 to 2.5 hours each), continuous walking, and lifting/carrying up to 30 pounds (5.5 to 8 hours). Frequent lifting/carrying of 10 to 30 pounds (2.5 to 5.5 hours), reaching, bending/stooping, and pushing/pulling (2.5 to 5.5 hours) are also required. No fine manipulation; moderate stress level.

TARTA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, parental status, military service, or any other protected status.