Early Years Transportation Facilitator/ Bus Driver

Company: Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg

Job Title:        Early Years Transportation Facilitator / Bus Driver 
Reports To:    Early Years Program Manager
Location:        Hamilton & Brantford, ON
Status:            30 hours/Week Full-time, Permanent 

Position Overview 

Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg provides holistic programs and services for Indigenous children, youth, families, and communities, rooted in culture and language. Our vision is to foster identity formation and a sense of belonging through high-quality programming. The Early Years Transportation Facilitator/Bus Driver is responsible for the safe, timely transportation of children and families, supporting the health and safety of all passengers, and ensuring positive, supportive interactions. This role also includes delivery of essential program resources and maintaining the vehicle.

Key Responsibilities 

1. Transportation and Scheduling

• Coordinate and adhere to an effective pick-up and return schedule for children and families.
• Safely transport program participants while ensuring that all health and safety protocols are followed.
• Assist passengers in entering and exiting the vehicle, ensuring the proper use of car seats and safety restraints

2. Delivery and Coordination

• Deliver and pick up program kits, food, and other supplies as needed.
• Collaborate with office staff and supervisors to ensure efficient coordination of pickups and deliveries.

3. Safety and Compliance

• Conduct daily inspections of the vehicle, document maintenance needs, and report any required repairs.
• Ensure the vehicle meets all Ministry of Education, Transportation, and Public Health standards.
• Notify supervisors immediately of any delays, accidents, or safety concerns.

4. Relationship Building

• Foster positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues, contributing to a welcoming environment for all.
• Act as an ambassador for Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg in interactions with community members and partners.

5. Administrative and Maintenance Duties

• Maintain transportation logs, including mileage and attendance records.
• Ensure the vehicle’s interior and exterior are clean and well-maintained.
• Submit reports, timesheets, and other required documents on schedule.

6. Professional Development

• Participate in ongoing training and development, including cultural and language training.
• Attend monthly team meetings and other scheduled staff meetings.

7.  Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other duties as assigned by the direct Manager or delegate.
• Availability for flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.

Job Competencies 

• Ability to manage relationships and collaborate effectively.
• Familiarity with Indigenous communities and understanding of the historical and intergenerational trauma affecting Indigenous peoples.
• High self-awareness, accountability, and integrity.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving, conflict resolution, and time-management abilities.

Working Conditions 

• Engages regularly with children (ages 0-6), educators, and caregivers.
• Works in outdoor settings, including field trips and outdoor play.
• Local travel is required; extended travel may occasionally be necessary.
• Exposure to various environmental factors, including infectious conditions, is possible.

Qualifications 

• Valid Class ‘E’ or ‘F’ driver’s license
• Clear driver’s abstract and.
• Clean Vulnerable Sector Screening.
• Knowledge of the Hamilton/Brantford area.
• Valid Food Handler’s Certificate
• First Aid and CPR Level C Certification.
• Doctor-certified health assessment, up-to-date immunization, and TB test.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 40 lbs.
• Knowledge of car seat safety standards and installation requirements.

To Apply 

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and references by Thursday November 28, 2024, to info@niwasa.ca. Be sure to highlight relevant experience and why you are passionate about supporting our mission.

Pursuant to Section 24 of the Ontario Human Rights Code (the Code), this position will give preference to applicants who identify as a member of an Indigenous community (First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples). Candidates from this group are invited to self-identify in their cover letter, transparently, as part of the application process.