The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) is the largest public transit agency in Iowa. DART provides resources for those who vanpool, walk, or bike. These services connect thousands of people every day to jobs, school, medical appointments, entertainment, and more. Our mission is to enrich lives, connect communities, and expand opportunities. DART is currently hiring for Paratransit Drivers to join our Operations Department and provide PAID CDL TRAINING with a SIGN ON BONUS! 

The top 3 reasons our employees choose to work at DART are:

1. The impact we make on our community

2. Working with friendly coworkers

3. The empowerment and responsibility we have to serve our passengers

Job Description: Paratransit is a door-to-door transportation service provided for senior citizens and persons with disabilities living in Polk County who are functionally unable to independently use the regular city bus. You would help assist in trips to medical appointments, grocery stores, etc. The size of the vehicle is comparable to an airport shuttle bus. Applicants do not need to currently hold a Commercial Driver's License. A Class C Driver's License, however, is necessary. DART will pay while you train, once you are hired. 

Paid Training: The training process averages 6-7 weeks. During this time, DART will train new hires to obtain their Commercial Drivers License. In addition, this time is spent with classroom training, learning DART policies and procedures. New hires will participate in ride-alongs, shadowing current drivers on their routes. DART will provide the vehicle for the CDL test and we will reimburse for the cost of the license. 

Wages: 

  • $18.72 while in training
  • $19.76 after training
  • $22.88 after first year

Sign On Bonus:

  • 3,000 for candidates that have a current CDL with valid school bus, air brake, and passenger endorsements.
    • $500.00 paid on first paycheck.  Must include at least 5 working days.
    • $500.00 paid after the successful completion of graduation.
    • $1,000.00 paid 6 months after start date.
    • $1,000.00 paid 12 months after start date.
  • $2,000 for all newly hired bus drivers
    • $250.00 paid on first paycheck.  Must include at least 5 working days.
    • $250.00 paid after the successful completion of graduation.
    • $750.00 paid 6 months after start date.
    • $750.00 paid 12 months after start date

Schedule: DART buses run 7 days a week from 4:00 am to 12:30 am. Newly hired drivers work split shifts and eventually move to straight 8-hour shifts. Drivers are required to have flexible schedules and to be able to take shifts as needed. Paratransit Drivers receive their schedules approximately one week in advance. 

Example Schedule: First Run- 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm | Second Run- 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Job Duties

  • Promptly pick up and drop off passengers according to the schedule that fits the needs of passengers
  • Assist passengers to board and exit the vehicle safely, fastening wheelchairs and other medical or mobility equipment in a secure fashion
  • Maintain records and trip logs that outline your driving activities
  • Complete a pre and post-trip inspection of the vehicle

Job Qualifications

  • 21 years of age or older
  • High school diploma/equivalent
  • Must currently hold a Class C Iowa Driver's License
  • Must be able to obtain a Commercial Drivers License with Passenger and Airbrake endorsements
  • Pass a pre-employment background check (Motor Vehicle Record and Criminal History) 
  • Complete a DOT physical through DART's physician
  • Pass a DOT Drug Screen

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to operate assigned equipment in a safe manner
  • Ability to follow and understand policies and procedures
  • General knowledge of the Des Moines area
  • Ability to operate a vehicle in city traffic
  • Customer service experience is preferred

What DART Offers

  • Paid CDL training with license reimbursement
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance for full-time Paratransit Drivers
  • 457 (b) Retirement Savings Plan with employer match
  • I.P.E.R.S Retirement System
  • On-site Wellness Center
  • Complimentary Bus Pass and discounted family bus passes
  • Annual Uniform Allowance
  • Free Annual Wellness Screenings
  • B-Cycle Membership

 

In compliance with Federal and State equal employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, non-job related disability, or any other protected group status.

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