School Bus Driver at Discovering Talents Academy

Location: Gwarinpa, Abuja (FCT) 
Job Summary

• The School Driver at Discovering Talents Academy (DTA) is responsible for providing safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services for students, staff, and school-related activities.
• This role is paramount in ensuring the well-being of our pupils during transit and maintaining the school's commitment to safety and operational excellence.
• The Driver will adhere strictly to all DTA transportation policies and procedures, contributing to a secure and positive environment for everyone.

Key Responsibilities
Safe Vehicle Operation & Transportation:

• Operate school vehicles (buses, cars) safely and responsibly, adhering strictly to all traffic regulations, speed limits (e.g., maximum 60 km/h in residential areas), and road safety rules.
• Prioritize the safety of all passengers (students and staff) during every trip.
• Conduct morning pick-ups and afternoon drop-offs according to designated routes and schedules.
• Assist pupils in safely boarding and alighting the vehicle, ensuring no hurrying or pushing.
• Collaborate effectively with the Bus Attendant to monitor student behavior and ensure an orderly environment on the bus.
• Refrain from answering phone calls while driving and maintain respect towards other road users.
• Ensure the bus adheres strictly to scheduled pupil pick-up and drop-off points; no unauthorized halts or picking up of unassigned individuals.

Vehicle Maintenance & Care:

• Perform daily pre-trip checks, including fluid levels (engine oil, water/coolant, steering oil), tire pressure, battery, lighting systems (headlights, brake lights, indicators), and window/door functionality.
• Warm up the vehicle's engine for 5-10 minutes before take-off.
• Maintain the cleanliness of the vehicle, both interior and exterior, on a daily basis (washing exterior after morning pick-up, cleaning interior after evening drop-off, general cleaning on Saturdays).
• Conduct continuous and diligent checks to ensure the ongoing roadworthiness of the vehicle.
• Report any fault or anomaly discovered on the vehicle immediately in the designated vehicle maintenance update book.
• Ensure vehicles are fueled every Wednesday and Saturday, or as needed.
• Ensure vehicles are serviced strictly as and when due, following the maintenance schedule.
• Oversee mechanical repairs by taking the vehicle to the authorized mechanic, explaining the fault, staying during the repair, and test-running the vehicle afterward.

Security & Compliance:

• Ensure the school bus is properly secured at all times, including winding up windows and locking doors after use.
• Maintain a valid driver's license and ensure timely renewal.
• Ensure all vehicle documents (registration, insurance) are complete, intact, and readily available.
• Adhere to all DTA Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for School Drivers.
• Submit vehicle keys and bus phone to the Admin Officer after morning pick-up and evening drop-off.
• Be available for Saturday duties as assigned, including general cleaning and maintenance.

Communication & Reporting:

• Communicate effectively with the Bus Attendant regarding student behavior, safety, and operational matters.
• Report any delays in pupil pick-up/drop-off to the Admin Officer immediately.
• Document observations regarding driving habits, vehicle issues, and pupil behavior in daily reports.
• Communicate using the English language while on duty.

Qualifications

• Education: Minimum of a Secondary School Leaving Certificate.
• License: Valid and current professional driver's license.
• Experience: Minimum of [e.g., 3-5] years of proven experience as a professional driver, preferably in a school or passenger transport setting.
• Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of local traffic laws, road safety regulations, and basic vehicle maintenance. Familiarity with DTA's routes is an advantage.
• Skills: Excellent driving skills, strong observational skills, and ability to manage time efficiently.
• Personal Attributes: Patient, responsible, reliable, punctual, and a calm demeanor, especially when interacting with children.

Key Competencies:

• Safe Driving Practices
• Vehicle Maintenance & Care
• Punctuality & Reliability
• Adherence to Regulations & SOPs
• Customer Service (with students & parents)
• Problem-Solving (minor vehicle issues, route challenges)
• Communication & Reporting
• Responsibility & Accountability
• Commitment to Child Safety.