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Job description

To drive any vehicle allocated in a careful, lawful manner with special reference to the persons and equipment being carried.

Responsibilities

• Transport children, including those with mobility problems or severe/moderate learning difficulties to and from school or other authorised locations.
• Assist children, including those with mobility problems in and out of the vehicle.
• Ensure the good behaviour of children on the bus where practicable and to report any behaviour incidents to the Transport Officer or such other person designated by him/her to deputise on his/her behalf.
• Operate lifts and ramps on vehicles as required and ensure that wheelchairs are properly clamped down and secured.
• Provide minor first aid to passengers and ensure that any injured child receives medical attention as quickly as possible. Complete and submit the relevant personal injury report/accident report forms to the Transport Officer without delay.
• Direct School Bus escorts where employed, in assisting with the above duties.
• Transport meals from, and return empty containers to School Meals Kitchens and assist generally at schools as required.
• Ensure, as far as possible, that scheduled timings are observed and keep a detailed record of journeys, fuel issues, oil, servicing and repair work on the vehicle log/mileage sheet.
• Carry out daily routine vehicle checks including checking fuel, general vehicle condition, oil and water levels, tyre pressures and topping up as required.
• Complete defect report book and submit to engineer.
• Comply with the EU drivers’ hours and Tachograph regulations and Working Time Directive for mobile workers.
• Ensure the safe custody of all spare parts, tools, articles, equipment or other goods carried in the vehicle or under his/her immediate control, whether the property of the Education Authority or otherwise.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Hold a full category D1 licence.
• Hold a driver qualification card (DQC).
• Digital Tachograph Card - All candidates must have a valid Digital Tachograph card prior to commencement of employment.
• Evidence of experience of driving a bus (i.e. 17 seat vehicle and above).
• Proven ability to maintain accurate and up to date records.
• Willingness to undertake job related training and necessary certifications to fulfil the requirements of the role.

Desirable Skills

• Evidence of experience in using safety and mobility aids relating to wheelchair accessible vehicles.

Further Information

Location: Ballyclare Vehicle Maintenance Depot, 26 Hillhead Road, Ballyclare, BT39 9DS. This is a one day per week post to potentially job share with a permanent member of staff who has applied for flexible working. A full list of responsibilities, essential and desirable criteria can be found on the Education Authority website. The Education Authority is an equal opportunities employer.