Part-Time Driver for Council on Aging

Overview
This position is responsible for transportation of passengers in a timely, safe and proficient manner to designated sites in Salisbury and surrounding communities. Destinations may include medical/dental appointments, meal sites, the senior center, library, food shopping, banking, post office, hair dresser, etc.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for the position.

• Provide daily transportation to seniors and eligible clients to access transportation

• Coordinate daily run schedule/town trips/grocery shopping utilizing My Senior Center, to ensure the most efficient routes are utilized.

• Make calls to the seniors regarding scheduled rides, modifications and changes, as needed.

• Assists passengers in getting on and off the van/mini-bus; assistance may involve offering an arm for a passenger to hold on to as entering the van

• Provide door to door services as required on an individual basis; at minimum a curb to curb service

• Make certain that passengers have successfully entered their homes with extra care and attention during winter months

• Report deficiencies and problems with vehicle to Senior Center Director as soon as practicable

• Maintain the cleanliness of the vehicle at all times

• Maintain vehicle through regular cleaning and maintenance, including filling with gas, cleaning the interior/exterior, schedule checks following prescribed routine;

• Assists passengers with up to two bundles and/or packages, as appropriate, by bringing them to the passenger's doorway

• Observe changes in passenger behavior patterns and reports to the Senior Center Director and/or Outreach Coordinator.

• Lock and secure vehicle at the end of each day

• Deliver meals by town owned vehicle to housebound elders

• Responsible for collecting donations

• Maintain safe food handling and passenger safety procedures

• Maintain logs and other records as needed

• Participate in staff and supervisory meetings

• Attend regular training and in-service events, as required.

• Perform similar or related work as required, directed, or as situation dictates.

SUPERVISION

The Van Driver works under the designation of the Director of Council on Aging and/or their Designee.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALITIES

• Ability to operate and maneuver a vehicle under various weather conditions

• Ability to communicate effectively

• Working knowledge of the operation of a passenger van

• Must be able to learn routes in a timely manner

• Ability to interact with older adults and disabled persons in a positive and sensitive manner

• Ability to understand and follow oral instructions

• Ability to function well in stressful/emergency situations

• Ability to operate wheelchair lift equipment and push a wheelchair

• Ability to remain calm, concentrate and perform all responsibilities in a competent manner at all times.

• Excellent customer service skills

• A high level of patience, tact, and discretion

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, applicants must have at a minimum the following:

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent

• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record

• Training is provided with refresher trainings offered throughout employment as required or appropriate. Participation in these trainings is a job requirement.

• Ability to pass a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Check

DESIRED QUALITIES AND QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants will gain special consideration if they have the following qualities or qualifications:

• Knowledge of CPR, Basic First Aid, Wheelchair Lift and Securement, Disability Awareness

• Knowledge of existing social services

• CDL License is a plus but not required

• Defensive Driving, Passenger Assistance and Drug & Alcohol Awareness Safety Sensitive Employee trainings and/or experience preferred, not required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work is performed in a vehicle on the road with exposure to all weather conditions and the general hazards associated with driving. Operate a lift-equipped van; operate automatic wheelchair lift and mobile communication equipment.

Make frequent contact with older adult passengers as well as Senior Center staff, medical office personnel, food