Social Services Assistant Driver - Respite

Reports to: Program Manager

                                    Status: Non-exempt

Grade: A02

Salary: Dependent on Qualifications

Position Summary: 

The SSA Driver safely transports Heading Home clients as needed to and from varied locations within the City of Albuquerque.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities of an SSA Driver include:

• Reports directly to the Shift Supervisor.

• Supports all Heading Home staff and clients in the provision of transport services.

• Assists in creating and maintaining an emotionally and physically safe atmosphere.

• Safely operate shuttle vehicles to transport passengers to and from designated locations.

• Assist passengers with boarding and exiting the shuttle.

• Adhere to all traffic laws and regulations while operating the vehicle.

• Maintain a clean and organized shuttle interior.

• Communicate effectively with passengers, providing information and assistance as needed.

• Follow established routes and schedules.

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the vehicle.

• Report any maintenance or safety issues to the appropriate supervisor.

• Light maintenance of shelter vehicles to include: cleaning, washing, gas fill up, checking oil, maintaining tire pressure, and other items that do not require a professional mechanic.

• Maintain daily safety/maintenance and fuel logs as required.

• Safely de-escalate conflicts that may arise between clients during transport.

• All other duties as assigned.

The responsibility of all Heading Home employees includes the following:

• Always represent and promote Heading Home in a positive and professional manner.

• Maintain good attendance and punctuality in keeping with Heading Home Policies.

• Attend all staff and organizational meetings as required.

• Observe and practice safe work habits and practices in compliance with regulations, statutes, and organizational policies.

• Maintain client, resident, guest, and organizational confidentiality in compliance with organizational policies and procedures.

• Read, understand, and comply with all guidelines of the Heading Home Employee Handbook.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and must be able to think strategically and act quickly. Must possess the ability to work well with others across a broad spectrum of situations. Prior experience in working with individuals experiencing homelessness and mental illness is highly desired.

The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability required. 

Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. 

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED.

• Practical experience working with people in customer service or a related field is required.

• Minimum one year of experience working with the unhoused population is preferred.

• Ability to assist riders with developmental disabilities.

• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

• Knowledge of area service providers and community resources.

• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

• Experience in commercial driving, school bus driving, or paratransit is preferred.

• Ability to lift heavy objects, such as luggage or mobility devices, as needed.

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

• Ability to work independently and follow directions.

• Strong customer service skills, with a friendly and professional demeanor.

• Reliable and a team player

Other Requirements

• Reliable transportation.

• Ability to navigate stairs, ladders, ramps, and uneven terrain.

• Lifting a maximum of 25 pounds occasionally, and frequently lifting or carrying objects weighing up to 10 pounds.

• Must become CPR/First Aid trained within 90 days of hire.

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This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee. This document is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.