AFL-CIO Appalachian Council Head Start is seeking a dependable, caring, and safety-focused individual to join our team in a combined Bus Driver / Floater Teacher Aide position. This unique dual role offers the opportunity to support children both on the road and in the classroom while making a meaningful difference in the lives of young children and families.

Why Join Head Start?

This position provides an opportunity to serve children and families in two important ways—ensuring children arrive safely at their destination and supporting their learning and development in the classroom. If you enjoy variety in your workday, value teamwork, and want a position where your work has a direct impact on children and families, we encourage you to apply.

Position Summary

The Bus Driver / Floater Teacher Aide is responsible for safely transporting children to and from Head Start services and providing classroom support as needed throughout the program day. The successful candidate will be flexible, dependable, and committed to maintaining a safe, nurturing, and positive environment for young children.

Key Responsibilities

Bus Driver Duties:

• Safely transport Head Start children to and from program locations in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and program transportation and safety requirements.
• Conduct required pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.
• Follow assigned bus routes and schedules while maintaining safe driving practices.
• Ensure children are safely secured and accounted for during transportation.
• Maintain required transportation documentation and promptly report safety concerns, vehicle issues, or incidents.
• Work cooperatively with bus monitors, families, supervisors, and other program staff.
• Participate in required training and maintain all licenses, certifications, and qualifications necessary for the position.

Floater Teacher Aide Duties:

• Provide classroom support at assigned Head Start locations based on program needs.
• Assist teaching staff in creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment.
• Support children's daily routines, learning activities, meals, transitions, outdoor play, and other classroom experiences.
• Follow all active supervision requirements and maintain awareness of children at all times.
• Assist with classroom setup, cleaning, sanitizing, and preparation of materials.
• Provide coverage and support in different classrooms or program areas as assigned.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow all Head Start policies, procedures, Standards of Conduct, and applicable regulations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Must possess or be willing and able to obtain the required CDL and endorsements for transporting children.
• Experience working with young children is preferred.
• Must meet all Head Start background check, health, physical, and training requirements.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and adapt to changing daily assignments.
• Must be dependable, punctual, flexible, and committed to the safety and well-being of children.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of both transportation and classroom duties.

AFL-CIO Appalachian Council Head Start is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Children and families will always come first in this Head Start Program, above all defined duties, perceived responsibilities, and/or personal priorities!

Pay: From $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Shift:

• Day shift

Work Days:

• Monday to Friday

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• commercial driving: 1 year (Preferred)
• Early childhood education: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• CDL license? (Preferred)
• Passenger Endorsement (Preferred)
• School Bus Endorsement (Preferred)

Work Location: In person