The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private non-profit organization that provides services in response to the needs of rural, low-income households and communities. MRDC serves as Caroline, Cecil, Harford and Kent Counties’ official Community Action Agency.

The Head Start Bus Driver is responsible for the safe and timely transportation of preschool-aged children (3-5 years of age) and staff between home, school, and authorized activities. This position plays a vital role in ensuring children’s well-being and compliance with all local, state, and federal transportation regulations, as well as Head Start Program Performance Standards. The Bus Driver will assure that MRDC philosophies and priorities are met. 

Job Responsibilities:

·         Safely operate a school bus or vehicle along assigned routes, adhering to established schedules and traffic laws.

·         Conduct daily pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections; report and document maintenance or safety issues promptly.

·         Ensure the safety of all passengers, including proper use of child safety restraints and adherence to behavioral expectations during transit.

·         Assist children on and off the bus, ensuring they are released only to authorized individuals.

·         Maintain accurate and timely records, including attendance logs, mileage, fuel usage, and maintenance reports.

·         Follow all Head Start and agency transportation policies and emergency procedures.

·         Work cooperatively with teachers, parents, and staff to support children’s attendance and participation in the program.

·         Participate in required training sessions, safety drills, and ongoing professional development.

·         Keep the bus clean, organized, and in good condition at all times.

·         Serve as a positive role model for children, demonstrating patience, respect, and professionalism.

·         Assure that files are complete, accurate, and confidentially maintained

·         Thinks, concentrates, and positively interacts with others

·         Comes to work promptly every day

·         Works under stress and meets all deadlines

·         OTHER DUTIES: (Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.) Performs related work as required or assigned.

Requirements

Required Qualification/Experience:

·         High school diploma or GED.

·         Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with School Bus (S) and Passenger (P) endorsements.

·         Current Department of Transportation (DOT) physical and drug screening clearance.

·         Safe driving record.

·         Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, assist children with mobility needs, and work in varying weather conditions.

·         Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact effectively with children, families, and coworkers.

·         Must pass all Maryland licensing requirements to include medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening

·         Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting

Preferred Skills/Qualifications

·         Experience working with preschool-aged children or in an early childhood education setting.

·         Knowledge of Head Start Program Performance Standards and child safety procedures.

·         Basic first aid and CPR certification – ability to get certified

·         Ability to work independently and within a team environment

·         Effective written and oral communication experience

·         Relationship building experience

·         Demonstrated success in accomplishing tasks as outlined above

Physical Demands:

·         Position requires significant periods of standing, walking, kneeling, sitting on the floor or crouching

·         May at times require lifting 25lbs – 50lbs

Terms of Employment:

·         Eleven (11) month; full-time position (September - June)

Compensation:

·         $ 20.47 per hour; Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience

Maryland Rural Development Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact Human Resources at hrdept@mrdc.net

Benefits