Recreation Aide / Substitute Van Driver

Town of Smithfield, Rhode Island; Smithfield (RI); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Town of Smithfield Recreation Department is seeking a part-time van driver to transport town residents and disabled passengers, and to assist with recreation programs. You will operate a van safely, maintain records, and support transportation services for the community.

Must hold a Rhode Island CDL with a passenger endorsement. High School diploma or GED required. Hours are part-time and commitment to providing high-quality service in varied weather and schedules is essential.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Valid Rhode Island CDL operator’s license with a passenger endorsement.
• Must be able to assist passengers and maintain records as required.

Responsibilities

• Operate a van to transport town residents and disabled individuals safely.
• Maintain accurate records related to the van itinerary.
• Ensure passengers enter and exit safely and are assisted at destinations.
• Maintain the van’s interior and exterior and report defects to the Recreation Director.
• Provide assistance to passengers during accidents or emergencies.
• Communicate effectively with passengers regarding routes, destinations, and procedures.
• Interact with the public in a positive, courteous, and professional manner.
• Represent the department positively and perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Safe driving

Customer service

Communication

Education

High School diploma or GED

Rhode Island CDL with passenger endorsement

Job description

Please be advised, Town Hall will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, in observance of the Veterans Day holiday.

There will be no trash, recycling or yard waste collection on Wednesday, November 11th due to the Veterans Day holiday. Collection will be delayed, by one day, for the remainder of that week.

General Summary:

Under the supervision of the Recreation Director, this part‑time position is responsible for safely operating a van to transport town residents and disabled passengers. The role also includes assisting with recreation programs and performing other related recreation department duties.

** Must hold a CDL license**

Essential Functions:

• Operate a van to transport town residents and disabled individuals safely.
• Maintain accurate records related to the assigned van or bus itinerary.
• Ensure passengers enter and exit the van or bus safely and are properly assisted at their destinations.
• Maintain the interior and exterior of the van or bus, reporting any defects or malfunctions (including snow removal) to the Recreation Director.
• Provide assistance to passengers during accidents or emergency situations.
• Communicate effectively with passengers regarding the transportation program, destinations, and emergency procedures.
• Interact with the public in a positive, courteous, and professional manner.
• Represent the department positively by demonstrating a commitment to providing high‑quality services to the community.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Job Requirements – Education & Training:

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Valid Rhode Island CDL operator’s license with a passenger endorsement.

Physical Requirements:

Please refer to the functional job description. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants who are unable to meet one or more requirements.

Working Conditions:

• Duties are performed primarily in and around the Town’s vans and buses.
• Additional responsibilities take place within the Recreation Department and outdoors in various weather conditions.

The Town of Smithfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Town is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

The Town of Smithfield encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process upon request.