Veterans Services Aide (Driver)

Job Summary

Performs a variety of manual tasks in the operation of motor vehicle with handicap access carrying up to 11 passengers. An automobile may also be used when appropriate. The employee is responsible for the safe transport and delivery of passengers and the care and regular servicing of the assigned vehicle. Work is usually performed under normal driving conditions, but occasionally inclement weather or hazardous road conditions may be encountered.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Transports passengers varying in physical and cognitive capabilities from designated locations in Scott County to and from the Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center in Minneapolis or such other destinations as directed. Ensures passengers are aware of pick-up time and location for return trip from the VA Medical Center. Ensures veterans bus is maintained and ready for annual safety inspections.  
• Assists Scott County veterans while at the VA Medical Center to and from appointments and other advocacy efforts as needed. 
• Assists passengers into and out of vehicle when appropriate. Operates wheelchair lift and properly secures passengers in wheelchairs with appropriate restraints. 
• Attends meetings as required, requested, and/or assigned. 
• Coordinates passenger transportation service with the Scott County Veteran's Services Office. 
• Maintains punctual schedule of arrivals and departures. 
• Keeps vehicle clean and filled with gasoline and oil. Has vehicle serviced on a regular basis. 
• Picks up prescriptions/prosthetics from VA Medical Center for veterans in the community.  
• Trains backup driver on proper procedures and assists them with bus reservation and maintenance as needed.
• Works the hours and/or shifts assigned and begins and ends work on time. 
• Performs other duties as related or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Requires equivalency of a high school diploma and 6 months of experience. Requires possession of a valid driver's license. Must be able to assist clients in and out of vehicle and transporting clients with or in adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs or walkers. Must be able to properly secure within the vehicle, wheelchairs, walkers, and other related equipment.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The employee is under general supervision from the Transit Supervisor. Work is performed in accordance with standard procedure and regulations. Assignments are received orally or in writing. Work is reviewed by the Transit Supervisor periodically for effectiveness of service, safety and economy in operation.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES

• Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.
• Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.
• Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.
• Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.
• Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.
• Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.
• Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.
• Knowledge of veteran's characteristics, needs, and expectations.
• Knowledge of laws and regulations governing the operation of motor vehicles with the State of Minnesota.
• Knowledge of the area of operation and familiarity with roads and highways and functional routes.
• Knowledge of first aid techniques and practices.
• Ability to operate a large van and automobile under all weather conditions.
• Ability to make independent decisions necessary to ensure that veterans receive appropriate and timely care while at the VA Medical Center.
• Ability to explain and implement Veterans Service transportation policy.
• Ability to occasionally work odd hours and 10-12 hour days on short notice.
• Ability to interact and respectfully work with a variety of people.
• Ability to assist passengers on and off vehicle when appropriate.
• Ability to maintain a safe driving record.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to speak, present, and interact in public arenas with composure, professionalism, and discretion.
• Ability to use MS Office software for the performance of essential duties.
• Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires driving a passenger vehicle on fixed, circulatory, or dial-a-ride routes. Work occurs in an office; in the field; in clients' places of residence, work, or other community location. Work with routes is in both Carver and Scott counties on a regular basis and in other counties on occasion. The position is multi-task oriented and includes periods of stress when balancing the needs/demands of clients and driving conditions. Incumbent may be exposed to various atmospheric conditions such as odors, dusts, pets, poor ventilation, fumes, etc. when working in and around buses and in community locations. Incumbent may be exposed to uncooperative, emotional, and/or special needs clients. Shift work may include early morning, evening, night and weekend hours.

Physical activities include light to medium work: Reaching, sitting, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, stooping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. Lifts and/or navigates up to 50 pounds on a routine basis in handling equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job as well as when assisting clients/riders.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.