Bus Driver

Helping Hand; Illinois; On-site; USD 71,635,000 - 75,217,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Purpose-driven work

Tuition reimbursement

Medical, dental, vision

Life/AD&D and disability insurance

PTO and holidays

PSLF-qualifying employer

Job summary

Helping Hand is seeking a dependable Bus Driver to transport individuals to programs, jobs, and community activities with safety and compassion. You will operate agency vehicles in accordance with Illinois rules, keep logs, and ensure vehicles are clean and safe.

The role emphasizes professional conduct and supportive interactions with individuals we serve. We require a high school diploma or GED, a valid Class D license, and CDL/PACE credentials ideally within 90 days.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 1-2 years of experience preferred.
• Current Class D driver license required; Class C and PACE certified preferred.
• Experience with I/DD population preferred.
• Must obtain Class C/CDL license and PACE certification within 90 days of hire.
• First aid training preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to self-transport.
• Commitment to company values and inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

• Safely transport individuals to Helping Hand programs and other locations.
• Operate agency vehicles per Illinois Rules of the Road and safety guidelines.
• Maintain daily mileage logs and report vehicle concerns or changes.
• Ensure vehicles are clean, safe, and well-maintained.
• Coordinate semi-annual safety inspections and document them.
• Follow safety procedures when transporting individuals with disabilities.
• Communicate schedule changes to Transportation leadership.
• Represent Helping Hand professionally and provide courteous service.
• Attend trainings, meetings, and safety programs.
• Protect confidentiality and rights of individuals supported.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Safe driving

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Customer service

Promote values

Diversity & inclusion

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

PACE certification

Job description

Description

At Helping Hand, transportation is more than getting from point A to point B. It is an essential part of helping the individuals we serve access programs, opportunities, and community experiences. We are looking for a reliable, safety-focused Bus Driver who takes pride in providing dependable transportation and positive interactions with the individuals we support.

SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION

• On-site position, full-time, 40 hours per week.
• Salary range $25.00-$26.25/hr (hourly/non-exempt).
• Salary based on skills and experience.
• Up to 6% annual bonus potential
• 403b retirement plan with up to a 4% company match.

HELPING HAND PERKS

• Purpose-driven work that changes lives.
• Tuition reimbursement and clear career growth opportunities.
• Traditional medical (BCBS of IL), dental, and vision insurance.
• Employer-paid Group Life/AD&D, Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability.
• Team member appreciation events and year-round recognition.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness support.
• Generous PTO including paid holidays, vacation, accrued sick time, and personal days.
• PSLF-qualifying employer under the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Safely transport individuals served from their homes to Helping Hand programs, job sites, and other approved locations.
• Operate agency vehicles in accordance with Illinois Rules of the Road and agency safety guidelines.
• Maintain daily mileage logs and report any vehicle concerns or schedule changes.
• Ensure assigned vehicles are clean, safe, and in proper working condition.
• Take vehicles to required semi-annual safety inspections and document inspections appropriately.
• Follow all safety procedures related to transporting individuals with disabilities.
• Communication with the Transportation leadership team regarding schedule changes or issues.
• Represent Helping Hand professionally and provide courteous, respectful service to the individuals and communities we serve.
• Attend required trainings, meetings, and safety programs.
• Protect the confidentiality and rights of the individuals we support.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

WHAT YOU BRING

Education/Training

• High School Diploma or GED required

Experience

• 1-2 years of experience preferred.
• Current Class D driver's license required, Class C and PACE certified preferred.
• Previous experience working with the I/DD population preferred, but not required.

Skill Sets

• Must have an acceptable/safe driving record with the Secretary of State and ongoing personal motor vehicle insurance.
• Must obtain Class C/CDL license and PACE certification within 90 days of hire if not already obtained. Must be able to obtain a school bus permit.
• First aid training (preferred).
• Must have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to self-transport.
• Ability to promote and adhere to company values.
• A commitment to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The person in this position may encounter clients exhibiting physical aggression. Must be comfortable working in periods of crisis and feel comfortable de-escalating individually or as a team.
• The person in this position needs to occasionally move about inside the office/vehicle to assist others.
• The ability to observe details at a close range (within a few feet of the observer).
• Consistently position oneself to assist consumers/clients.
• The ability to communicate information and ideas so that others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in all situations.
• Occasionally work in outdoor weather conditions.

Helping Hand is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We believe that embracing our differences strengthens our community and enhances the quality of care we provide.