Position Summary
The Substitute Bus Driver operates district school buses safely and efficiently to transport students to and from school, field trips, and district-approved activities. This on-call role fills in for absences or coverage needs and requires strict adherence to safety standards, student management expectations, and transportation regulations. Training available.
What Does a Substitute Do?
Classified Substitutes provide critical backup to school district services when regular staff are unable to work due to illness or other personal situations.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Safely operate a school bus under varying weather and road conditions.
- Transport students and authorized personnel over regular routes and to extracurricular, field trip, or special-activity destinations.
- Maintain appropriate student behavior and ensure a safe, respectful bus environment.
- Assist students in safe loading and unloading procedures, including those needing specialized equipment (as applicable).
- Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections as required by state and district policies.
- Maintain cleanliness of the bus interior and report mechanical or safety concerns promptly.
- Complete all required documentation, including route records, inspection logs, and incident reports.
- Represent the district courteously and professionally while interacting with students, staff, parents, and the public.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum of 5 years driving experience preferred
Licensing & Certifications
- Valid Washington State Driver License.
- Ability to obtain/maintain Class B CDL - training will be provided by the district.
- Must meet all OSPI school bus driver authorization requirements, including background check, WSP/FBI fingerprinting, and pre-employment drug/alcohol testing.
- Must pay non-refundable fingerprinting fees: OSPI $50.00 plus San Juan County Sheriffs Office fee $15.00.
- Complete mandatory online professional development courses via SafeSchools within 30 days of hire, and annually.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Knowledge of safe driving practices and applicable traffic laws.
- Ability to manage student behavior and maintain order.
- Ability to exercise good judgment, remain calm under pressure, and adapt to changing conditions.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with students, parents, and district personnel.
- Ability to work independently without direct supervision.