Under general supervision, operates a school bus in transporting children to and from schools.

Within six months of new hire into this position, employee must have knowledge of all seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System to include:  commitment to students, professional, interpersonal, organization and problem solving skills, and knowledge of the job. Knowledge of traffic and highway safety rules and regulations and the precautions necessary to avoid accidents.  Knowledge of the local street and road system.  Knowledge of basic arithmetic.  Working mechanical knowledge of school bus in order to complete pre-trip and post-trip inspection of equipment as required by Maryland State commercial driver's license requirements, or ability to rapidly acquire such knowledge.

Ability to operate a school bus in the safe and efficient transportation of children.  Ability to read and write, communicate orally, understand and carry out written and oral instructions, maintain effective control over groups of children, and work harmoniously with children and others.  Ability to read and follow a road map.  Ability to drive any size or type school bus in the fleet.

Five years experience as a motor vehicle operator, during which time a valid driving license was held.  Satisfactory completion of a prescribed preservice instruction program within a reasonable period of time.  Other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience, which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position, may be considered.

Possession of a valid Maryland State Noncommercial Class C (or equivalent) driver's license.  Ability to secure a Maryland State Commercial Class B driver's license (or equivalent) with air brake and passenger/cargo endorsements within the period of time specified by the preservice training program.

Ability to meet prescribed preemployment and annual physical examination requirements.  Ability to complete pre- and post-trip bus inspections.  Some lifting may be required.

Ability to meet Maryland State Department of Education requirements for continued employment, as prescribed by state bylaws and Montgomery County Public Schools policies.  Ability to work overtime to complete required bus routes/trips.  No more than two current points on the driving record and a satisfactory past driving record.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operates a school bus in transporting children to and from schools; may transport students on field trips and outings.

• May transport wheelchair bound students; assists such students in boarding bus; lifts and places wheelchairs in bus in secure position; transports students' medical apparatus.

• Operates vehicle in compliance with state and county laws and departmental regulations.

• Takes precautions to avoid accidents.

• Maintains order among students aboard school bus and reports cases of misbehavior to school officials.

• Assists students who become ill; cleans up as required.

• Completes pre- and post-trip inspections of bus.  Checks gas, oil, and water daily.  Responsible for appearance of assigned vehicle and for reporting mechanical defects upon detection to repair shop.

• Keeps records of operation of bus and submits required reports; compiles and submits accident report information and reports prolonged traffic delays.

• Attends safety meetings.Performs related work as required.