Mini Bus Driver

The Minibus Driver position is offered within the Transportation Division of Somerset County, a dedicated public service entity serving the local community. Somerset County is committed to providing reliable, safe, and accessible transportation for its eligible residents, primarily focusing on elderly individuals and those with disabilities. This role is integral to supporting the county’s commitment to accessibility and customer service excellence. The Minibus Driver not only transports passengers but also delivers hot and cold meals, ensuring the welfare and comfort of passengers during their journeys. This position requires the candidate to be friendly and courteous, maintaining a positive rapport with passengers who rely heavily on the transportation services for daily errands, medical appointments, and meal delivery.

The role itself demands a responsible individual capable of driving and navigating Somerset County routes under varying weather conditions from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm, ensuring that passengers are safely and promptly transported to their intended destinations. Beyond transportation, this role involves maintaining detailed records such as a digital manifest to log passenger pick-ups, drop-offs, mileage, and other critical vehicle-related information including daily safety inspections. Minibus Drivers are expected to provide assistance to passengers who may require physical help boarding or alighting and ensure that those passengers are safely handed off to family members or staff. In cases where passengers are not met, drivers must communicate promptly with the office to receive further instructions.

The position is designated essential during emergency operations, underscoring the vital role it plays in the county's emergency preparedness and response plans. This means availability and readiness to support emergency transportation needs as directed by division management. The Minibus Driver must also adhere strictly to safety protocols, federal transit administration regulations concerning safety-sensitive roles, and participate in required drug and alcohol testing.

This full-time role offers a competitive annual salary of $48,000. Benefits include comprehensive health coverage covering medical, prescription, and dental care, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave, participation in a deferred compensation plan, and enrollment in the New Jersey State Pension System. These benefits reflect the county’s commitment to supporting the well-being and financial security of its employees.

Ideal candidates will possess a valid New Jersey commercial driver’s license with a passenger endorsement, a current Federal Motor Carrier Medical Examiner Certificate, and certifications in Passenger Assistance Safety and Sensitivity and Defensive Driving. Experience working with senior citizens and individuals with disabilities is highly valued, as is familiarity with Somerset County’s geography and enterprises. Proficiency in English for reading and understanding maps and route sheets is essential, and bilingual Spanish-English skills are preferred.

This comprehensive role requires dedication, a strong sense of responsibility, excellent customer service skills, and the ability to operate vehicles safely while maintaining vehicle condition and cleanliness. The Minibus Driver contributes significantly to Somerset County’s mission of enhancing the quality of life for its residents by ensuring safe, reliable transportation and nourishment services.