Mental Health Transportation Van Driver

A Caring Alternative; Tennessee; On-site; USD 19,286 - 24,796; Part time

Job summary

A Caring Alternative in Morganton, NC is seeking an entry-level Mental Health Transportation Driver to safely transport clients to appointments and services. The role requires professionalism, patience, and compassion when interacting with individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

You will operate a company van, assist clients, adhere to safety policies, complete logs, and communicate with staff about schedules and incidents.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Minimum age typically 21+.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Knowledge of defensive driving techniques.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate a company van to transport clients to scheduled destinations (appointments, programs, residences, etc.).
• Assist clients in boarding and exiting the vehicle when necessary.
• Ensure all passengers follow safety guidelines, including seat belt use.
• Maintain a calm, respectful and supportive environment during transport.
• Observe and report any client behavioral or medical concerns to appropriate staff.
• Adhere to all traffic laws and facility transportation policies.
• Perform routine vehicle inspections and report maintenance needs.
• Keep the vehicle clean, sanitary, and presentable at all times.
• Maintain accurate transportation logs, schedules, and incident reports.
• Communicate effectively with staff regarding schedules, delays, or client issues.
• Respond appropriately in emergency situations, following facility protocols.

Skills

Strong communication

Compassion

Time management

Confidentiality (HIPAA)

Good judgment

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Job Details Level: Entry
Job Location: Corporate - Morganton, NC 28655
Position Type: Part Time
Education Level: High School

Job Summary

The Mental Health Transportation Driver is responsible for safely transporting clients to and from a mental health facility, appointments, and community-based services. This role requires a high level of professionalism, patience, and compassion when interacting with individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate a company van to transport clients to scheduled destinations (appointments, programs, residences, etc.)
• Assist clients in boarding and exiting the vehicle when necessary
• Ensure all passengers follow safety guidelines, including seat belt use
• Maintain a calm, respectful, and supportive environment during transport
• Observe and report any client behavioral or medical concerns to appropriate staff
• Adhere to all traffic laws and facility transportation policies
• Perform routine vehicle inspections (fuel, oil, tires, cleanliness) and report maintenance needs
• Keep the vehicle clean, sanitary, and presentable at all times
• Maintain accurate transportation logs, schedules, and incident reports
• Communicate effectively with staff regarding schedules, delays, or client issues
• Respond appropriately in emergency situations, following facility protocols

Skills and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Compassion, patience, and respect for individuals with mental health conditions
• Ability to remain calm in stressful or unpredictable situations
• Good judgment and problem-solving skills
• Reliability and strong time management skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality (HIPAA compliance awareness)

Working Conditions

• Frequent driving and sitting for extended periods
• May require assisting clients with mobility challenges
• Possible exposure to emotionally distressed individuals
• Hours may vary, flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, or holidays

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, and assist passengers as needed
• Capability to lift or support light to moderate weight (if assisting clients)

Additional Requirements

• Background check and drug screening required
• Safe driving history required
• Training in mental health awareness may be provided or required

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Minimum age requirement (typically 21+, depending on insurance)
• Previous experience driving passengers or working in healthcare/social services preferred
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Knowledge of defensive driving techniques