Operator Training Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY – OPERATOR TRAINING SPECIALIST

The Operator Training Specialist will identify and monitor operational training needs in the organization, and design, plan, and implement training programs, policies, and procedures to fulfill those needs. Under general supervision of the Safety Officer, the Operator Training Specialist plans, prepares and delivers instructions to new operators in training, experienced operators, and other personnel as needed. Establishes and promotes a safe, accident free, and healthy work environment. Ensures compliance with County, local, state, and federal regulations regarding transit operations such as vehicle safety, driver certifications and training. This position may be assigned to first (8am to 5pm) or second shift (10am to 7pm) and does require, based on business needs, some weekend work.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge: Must have thorough understanding of Durham area and of the GoDurham routes, service policies, and fare structures. Understanding of transit operations and related federal and state rules and regulations regarding safety and environmental issues is required. Post-secondary training in supervision/management, safety, training, human resources, or related fields is desired.

Experience: Five years of full-time experience in public transit training is a minimal requirement. Prior experience in a supervisory or leadership position in fixed route services is required. 3 years of CDL driving experience required. Internal candidate’s personnel and attendance records will be reviewed for compliance with company policies and procedures.

Skills: Must have well-refined verbal and written communications skills. Organization skills and self-directed work ethic are essential. Must be a strong communicator with effective listening skills. Able to prepare and present clear, concise, and accurate reports to members of management. Proficiency with Microsoft Office: Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel programs are required.

Physical Demands/Work Environment: Must have the ability to work the hours and days required to complete the essential functions of the position, as scheduled. Vision, hearing, speech, and manual dexterity are required. A valid North Carolina CDL driver’s license is necessary. Must have the ability to read, analyze and interpret general information concerning organizational needs and operations. Other normal office-related physical demands may be necessary.

Mental Demands: Must have the ability to listen, reason, think, concentrate, and interact with others. The ability to exercise self-control and work under stressful conditions is necessary, particularly in employee relations situations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Leads Operator trainees through classroom and BTW training. Ensures each Operator Trainee is trained to operate vehicles in a safe and efficient manner while meeting customer service standards.
• Ensures training materials and programs are current, accurate and effective. Coordinates procurement of updated/new materials with supervisor and within budgetary guidelines.
• Responsible for the direct supervision of student operators including documentation of training and disciplinary proceedings.
• Develops and implements training and certification programs covering new and existing equipment, vehicles, programs, procedures, and commercial drivers’ license requirements.
• Performs return-to-work, post-accident, and refresher trainings. Documents and tracks all training performed.
• Assists employees in converting CDL permit to full CDL through road, pre-trip, and skills testing preparation.
• Acts as a resource to provide employees and departments with expert information on the safe operation of buses.
• Performs trail checks and completes Operator Evaluations for Bus Operators.
• Coaches/mentors student operators in initial and continuing technical training programs to develop and improve employee performance.
• Works closely with the operations management team to resolve emerging performance needs through training.
• As directed, assists with interviewing and assessment of operator candidates.
• Acts as backup to Safety Officer: position is deemed essential and must report during events such as inclement weather and states of emergency.
• Other duties relative to Safety and Training as assigned.