Job Description

This position reports to the Program Manager, and its primary responsibility is for the prompt and safe operation of agency-owned wheelchair accessible vehicles to transport seniors and people with disabilities to/from a variety of locations in and around Berkeley.  The Driver picks up and drops off riders who have no accessible transportation options, are stranded due to a breakdown of their mobility device and/or need to get to appointments or other locations. Drivers ensure the safety of passengers by providing “door through door” assistance, helping the person to board and exit the vehicle, and by securely fastening wheelchairs, mobility devices, and/or client belongings in the vehicle. The Driver may be called upon to complete minor wheelchair repairs, provide attendant services, or other duties as needed to ensure the successful of Easy Does It by meeting client needs. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Arrive within 30-45 minutes to client/service location of initial request by dispatcher. 
2. Maintain cleanliness of vehicles; conduct safety inspection of vehicles, including but not limited to check gas, and oil levels prior to departure.
3. Document vehicle checks with all appropriate information to meet.
4. Assist passengers, including seniors and/ or disabled individuals, in and out of the vehicle.
5. Complete all required documentation for services rendered and submit to the Program Manager in the established timeframe.
6. Provide “door through door” services; Enter and/or exit pick up or drop off location(s), help lock doors, carry baggage, etc.
7. Drive vehicles in specified routes or to specified destinations complying with traffic rules and regulations and Measure E guidelines ensuring that mobility equipment is safely secured in the vehicle, and that passengers have a smooth, comfortable, and safe ride.
8. Educate riders about EDI services, availability and limitations; make referrals to internal staff and outside organizations as appropriate;
9. Maintain client and agency confidentiality.
10. Use positive communications while on duty as you are a representative of EDI in the community.
11. Use EDI supplied communication devices for all agency related work; when collecting, recording and reporting on work completed. 
12. Accurately document records of eligibility, work assigned and/or services performed, charges, cash receipts and fares collected, check-in/out times, complaints, refusals, charges, expenses, inventory, client health status, and other pertinent service information accurately and in a timely manner;
13. Identify, report, recommend and/or initiate service and/or process improvements to help scale operations.
14. Report regularly on customer feedback to resolve conflicts, support clients and colleagues, and to help drive product and process improvements.
15. Handle passenger emergencies or disruptions; interface with EMS providers including Police, Fire and Ambulance.
16. Participate in staff meetings, trainings and other meetings;
17. Provide backup attendant services as requested:
18. Assistance with bathing, showering, dressing, and grooming
19. Assistance with toileting
20. Meal preparation, feeding and clean up
21. Reasonable laundry, cleaning, and other domestic duties
22. Reasonable shopping and errands.
23. May be required to complete minor wheelchair adjustments, including but not limited to checking battery connections, adjusting headrest and/or footrests, or tightening a screw.
24. May be required to act as Dispatcher during “off-duty meal and rest breaks” during the assigned shift.
25. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

POSITION REQUIREMENTS: A minimum of 6 months of professional experience driving a wheelchair accessible van and/or providing personal assistance services to people with disabilities and/or seniors.

1. Current California driver's license in good standing with a “clean” DMV driving record.
2. Ability to pass a Criminal Background Check.
3. Ability to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination(s).
4. Current CPR/ First Aid Certification or ability to obtain certification within 90 days of hire.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of disability, personal care concerns, substance abuse, trauma, and/or sensitive personal issues.
6. Maintain a calm demeanor and effectively respond in emergency, emergent, and/or crisis situations.
7. Interact with clients, family members, community members, emergency responders, law enforcement officers. 
8. Exceptional interpersonal skills; self-starter, self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
9. Develop effective working relationships with others; function effectively in an environment with diverse cultures, multiple perspectives, and lines of authority.
10. Maintain exceptional customer service and professional boundaries while building trusting relationships with colleagues, clients, community members and partners.
11. Professional, responsible and flexible with the ability to balance attention to detail and big-picture needs, to approach problems creatively and proactively, and to investigate/report in a neutral manner.
12. Work collaboratively, respecting and valuing the perspectives and contributions of others;
13. Ability to juggle multiple projects at once, while meeting deadlines and demonstrating high attention to detail;
14. Demonstrate a high level of verbal, writing, and listening skills;
15. Intermediate level technology skills, including proficiency with computers, smart phones, tablets, etc. and use of platforms including but not limited to Google Suite, MS Outlook, Word, Excel, Salesforce and/or other database systems;
16. Maintain a scent-free, non-smoking workplace (office and/or client homes) as some people EDI serves/employs may have sensitivity or allergic reactions to various fragrant products.

Additional Information

EDI is subject to the City of Berkeley Living Wage Ordinance

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or Veteran status.