Van Driver - Mojave Valley Transportation

The PACE van driver ensures the safe, timely, and courteous transportation of elderly and frail participants. The driver operates specialized vehicles, including those with wheelchair lifts, and assists participants with boarding and disembarking. This role requires patience, empathy, and excellent communication skills.

Transportation and Safety

• Safely operate a PACE vehicle, which may include wheelchair-accessible vans, to transport participants according to a scheduled route.
• Conduct daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure the vehicle is in safe working order. This includes checking fluid levels, lights, tires, and all safety equipment.
• Ensure all passengers are safely secured with seatbelts and that all wheelchairs and mobility devices are properly fastened.
• Maintain order and a calm environment within the vehicle during transport.
• Follow all traffic laws and safety procedures, responding appropriately to any emergencies.

Participant Assistance and Care

• Assist participants with boarding and exiting the vehicle, including operating wheelchair lifts and ramps.
• Provide physical assistance as needed, always treating participants with respect and care.
• Establish and maintain a positive and friendly rapport with participants, their families, and caregivers.
• Report any changes in a participant's behavior or condition, as well as any safety concerns, to the PACE interdisciplinary team (IDT).
• Provide additional assistance, such as delivering meals, medications, or supplies, when directed.

Documentation and Communication

• Accurately complete and maintain daily records, including route details, mileage, fuel logs, and inspection reports.
• Communicate with the PACE center dispatch or a supervisor regarding schedule changes, participant concerns, or route issues.
• Immediately report any vehicle operating problems, malfunctions, or incidents.
• Accurately record all delivery and pick-up details.

Vehicle Maintenance and Support

• Ensure the van's interior and exterior are clean and well-maintained.
• Keep the vehicle properly fueled.
• Report all maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED equivalent is often required, or a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience may be substituted.
• Experience transporting frail and elderly individuals is often preferred.

Certifications and Licenses

• A valid driver's license with a clean driving record is required.
• Some of our vehicles may require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a passenger endorsement.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid certifications are often required within a specified timeframe after hire.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a patient and empathetic demeanor.
• Excellent driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws.
• Ability to read maps and follow GPS directions efficiently.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and assist passengers with mobility issues.
• Flexibility to work early mornings, some weekends, or other non-standard hours.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.