Transportation Specialist

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.