P/T Bus Driver I

Village Management Services, Inc. (VMS) is a nonprofit mutual-benefit corporation providing professional management services to Laguna Woods Village, the largest independent living community for active adults aged 55 and older in Southern California. Spanning over 2,100 acres and encompassing 12,736 homes, Laguna Woods Village is home to more than 18,000 residents. Managing this extensive community is a complex undertaking that resembles managing a small city. VMS employs approximately 1,000 dedicated staff members who deliver a broad range of services and maintain the community's infrastructure, ensuring residents enjoy a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment. The organization takes pride in its commitment to integrity, quality, dedication, and open communication, all of which contribute to making Laguna Woods Village a premier retirement destination.

The role of Bus Operator at Village Management Services involves operating a passenger bus that is accessible to handicapped persons, on both a designated route and demand-response basis within Laguna Woods Village and adjacent areas. Working under general supervision, the Bus Operator ensures safe, courteous, and efficient transportation for the community's residents, many of whom are senior citizens with a variety of mobility needs. This position involves extensive interaction with residents, requiring the operator to screen passengers, assist those with mobility challenges by operating wheelchair lifts and securing wheelchairs, and provide clear directions to passengers as needed. The Bus Operator is responsible for compliance with all safety protocols, including performing federally mandated pre-trip inspections and immediately reporting any accidents or maintenance issues. Working shifts that may be part-time (4.5 hours) or full-time (8 hours), this role demands regular attendance and the ability to work outdoors under various environmental conditions, as well as exposure to bus exhaust fumes.

This is a position that goes beyond simply driving; it requires a genuine dedication to customer service, an understanding of the community’s geography, the ability to communicate effectively with residents and maintenance personnel, and a strong awareness of safety regulations and occupational hazards. Candidates must possess a valid California driver’s license, a Commercial B License with passenger endorsement, and meet additional requirements such as medical examinations, enrollment in the DMV Pull Notice Program, and a Random Testing Program for controlled substances and alcohol. Physical and mental capacities are critical, as the job involves helping passengers with mobility devices, maintaining focus during prolonged periods of driving, and effectively managing communication and problem-solving tasks. Village Management Services offers a challenging and rewarding work environment where employees are valued for their contributions to enhancing the quality of life for the active adult community they serve.