School Bus Safety Trainer / Behavior Management Specialist
Job Summary
The School Bus Safety Trainer / Behavior Management Specialist is responsible for developing, coordinating, and executing comprehensive safety, training, and student behavior programs for school bus drivers, white fleet and attendants. This role leads classroom instruction, provides behind-the-wheel coaching, monitors student conduct via video or write ups from drivers, and maintains strict compliance with local, state, and federal transportation laws.
Core Duties and Responsibilities
- Training & Instruction
- Safety Program Development: Create, coordinate, and oversee transportation safety programs, driver training initiatives, and driver recruitment/retention efforts.
- Classroom Instruction: Conduct mandated safety courses, instructional workshops, and certification refreshers covering traffic laws, passenger discipline, and first aid.
- Behind-the-Wheel Coaching: Teach proper vehicle operation on all fleet, defensive driving techniques, and pre-trip/post-trip mechanical inspections.
- Specialized Training: Provide instruction on handling special needs students, wheelchair lift operations, and bus evacuation procedures.
- Safety, Investigation & Compliance
- Regulatory Compliance: Verify that all drivers meet federal, state, and local regulations governing school bus operations. Oversee driver licensing, certification status, and district standards.
- Incident Investigation: Investigate vehicle accidents, traffic law violations, complaints, and safety concerns. Analyze GPS data or on-board video footage to recommend corrective retraining or disciplinary action.
- Records Management: Maintain accurate, compliant records related to transportation safety programs, driver training, certifications, investigations, and regulatory requirements.
- Student Behavior Management
- Conduct Monitoring: Monitor student conduct via video and passenger safety during transit to maintain an orderly environment.
- Incident Processing: Review and process driver referrals, student complaints, and transportation incidents.
- Video Audit: Review on-board video footage related to student write-ups, complaints, and accidents involving school buses and white fleet vehicles.
- Database Tracking: Update student information systems (e.g., Infinite Campus) with behavioral disciplinary actions and outcomes.
- Driver & Fleet Operations
- Equipment Inspections: Inspect school buses to ensure vehicles are free from mechanical defects or safety concerns that could compromise safe operation.
- Safety Gear Management: Ensure safety kits (first aid, biohazard, fire extinguishers) on buses are fully stocked and functional.
- Route Coverage: Operate a school bus or district vehicle as a substitute driver when necessary to support operations during staff shortages.
Qualifications & Requirements
Licenses & Certifications
- Commercial Driver''s License: Valid CDL with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements.
- Instructor Certification: Successful completion of an instructor certification course authorizing classroom and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training. Obtain within 180 days
- Train-the-Trainer: Must obtain and maintain state or district Train-the-Trainer certification.
Experience & Records
- Driving Experience: Requires 2 to 5 years (minimum of 3 years preferred) of professional school bus driving experience.
- Leadership Experience: Prior supervisory or mentoring experience is highly valued.
- Driving Record: Clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) with zero chargeable accidents and no major traffic violations within the past three (3) years.
Knowledge & Employment Screening
- Industry Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of state motor vehicle codes, defensive driving practices, and school bus minimum safety standards.
- Compliance Screening: Ability to pass a clear criminal background check, DOT physical exams, and pre-employment/random drug testing.