Behavioral Health - Flex Driver

The Behavioral Health Transportation Specialist (aka Flex Driver) is responsible for

providing safe, reliable, and supportive transportation services for riders with

intellectual, developmental, behavioral health, and/or special needs to and from school,

treatment programs, or other facilities.

This Flex Driver position is cross-trained to perform both Driver and Vehicle Attendant

responsibilities and may alternate between roles based on operational needs. The Flex

Driver helps ensure the safety, comfort, supervision, and well-being of all riders while

maintaining a clean, secure, and professional transportation environment.

Essential Responsibilities:

Transportation & Safety

%CF; Safely transport riders to and from assigned destinations in accordance with

company policies and state regulations.

%CF; Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections prior to and following assigned

routes.

%CF; Ensure all required equipment is present and operational, including

communication devices, first aid kits, car seats, safety equipment, gas cards, and

other required materials.

%CF; Follow all defensive driving practices and traffic laws.

%CF; Assist riders with safely boarding and exiting the vehicle using proper

procedures.

%CF; Secure seat belts, safety harnesses, adaptive equipment, and child restraints as

applicable.

%CF; Maintain awareness of rider behavior and surroundings to identify and address

safety concerns.

%CF; Follow individualized rider safety or behavioral support plans as required.

%CF; Learn and follow emergency evacuation procedures and properly use safety and

fire equipment.

%CF; Safeguard company property and maintain vehicle cleanliness through regular

cleaning and disinfecting.

%CF; Flex Drivers will also perform other company functions as assigned by the

Transportation Manager, which may include duties as a NEMT Driver,

Sub/rescue Driver or Student Driver.

Rider Support & Supervision

%CF; While sitting next to the rider, the Attendant will support the rider during transport

by maintaining a calm, safe, and respectful environment.

%CF; Communicate behavior expectations clearly and consistently.

%CF; Utilize de-escalation techniques and appropriate behavioral management

strategies when necessary.

%CF; Use appropriate, minimal physical intervention only when necessary to maintain

safety.

%CF; Collaborate with other transportation staff to ensure rider needs are met

throughout transport.

Communication & Documentation

%CF; Maintain communication with dispatch, office staff, caregivers, schools, and

program staff regarding route updates, concerns, or incidents.

%CF; Review route schedules, rider attendance, and transportation instructions prior to

routes.

%CF; Complete required incident reports and transportation documentation accurately

and timely.

Training & Compliance

Flex Drivers participate in all required training programs, including but not limited

to:

%CB; Ohio Department of Education Van Driver Certification

%CB; Crisis Prevention Institute De-Escalation Training

%CB; D.R.I.V.E. Passenger Assistance and Wheelchair Securement Training

%CB; CPR/First Aid

%CB; Behavioral Management

%CB; Annual Safety Training

%CB; Bloodborne Pathogens

%CB; Communicable Disease Prevention

%CB; Child Abuse & Neglect Awareness

%CB; Injury Prevention

Qualifications

%CF; Valid Ohio driver’s license with acceptable driving record.

%CF; Must be at least 25 years of age.

%CF; Experience using GPS based apps on a mobile device to navigate routes and

record time.

%CF; Ability to obtain and maintain all required credentials and certifications, including

Ohio Department of Education (ODE) driver certification.

%CF; Ohio Educational Aide Permit preferred or ability to obtain if required.

%CF; Strong defensive driving skills.

%CF; Ability to remain calm and respond appropriately in stressful situations.

%CF; Strong verbal and written communication skills.

%CF; Ability to work effectively with children and adults with intellectual, developmental,

behavioral health, or special needs.

%CF; Ability to demonstrate empathy, patience, professionalism, and sound judgment.

%CF; Ability to pass background checks, drug screening, and company physical.

Physical Requirements

%CF; Ability to safely assist riders entering and exiting vehicles.

%CF; Ability to secure wheelchairs, adaptive equipment, and safety restraints if

applicable.

%CF; Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and lift as needed to support rider safety and

vehicle operations.

Work Environment

This position operates in a transportation environment serving individuals with

behavioral health and special transportation needs. Employees may work independently

or alongside another transportation team member depending on route assignments and

rider needs.

Central Ohio’s #1 and premier specialized transportation serving students with special needs for over 30 years.