The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private non-profit organization that provides services in response to the needs of rural, low-income households and communities. MRDC serves as Caroline, Cecil, Harford and Kent Counties’ official Community Action Agency.

The Bus Monitor’s primary responsibility is ensures the safe and orderly transportation of children enrolled in the Head Start program. They assist the bus driver in maintaining a secure and nurturing environment for young children while traveling to and from school and program-related activities. The Bus Monitor supports children in boarding and exiting the bus, manages behavior, and ensures compliance with all safety regulations.

Requirements

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist children in safely boarding and exiting the bus, including those with special needs.
•  Ensure children are properly secured in seat belts, child restraints, or safety harnesses as required.
• Monitor children’s behavior during transit, promoting a positive and safe environment.
• Communicate and enforce bus rules to maintain order and safety.
• Escort children to and from their designated drop-off locations, ensuring they are safely received by authorized guardians.
• Know and follow all emergency procedures in case of accidents, medical issues, or bus breakdowns.
• Assist in emergency drills and evacuation procedures.
• Report any incidents, injuries, or safety concerns to the driver and program supervisor immediately.
• Work closely with the bus driver to coordinate safe and efficient transportation.
• Report any concerns regarding child welfare, attendance, or behavioral issues to the appropriate staff.
• Assist in keeping accurate attendance logs and transportation reports.
• Assist in keeping the bus clean and free of hazards.
• Ensure that all safety equipment (seat belts, harnesses, fire extinguisher, first aid kit) is in proper working order.
• Help children keep their belongings organized while on the bus.
• Thinks, concentrates, and positively interacts with others
• Comes to work promptly every day
• Works under stress and meets all deadlines
• OTHER DUTIES: (Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.) Performs related work as required or assigned.

Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience working with young children preferred (childcare, education, or transportation assistance).
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

Required Skills/Qualifications

• Patience, attentiveness, and a caring attitude toward young children.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and respond calmly in emergencies.
• Physical ability to assist children in and out of the bus as needed.
• Demonstrated success in accomplishing tasks as outlined above
• Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting
• Must pass all Maryland licensing requirements to include medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening

Physical Demands:

• Work is primarily conducted on a school bus, with exposure to various weather conditions.
• Requires sitting, standing, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.

Compensation: $19.15 per hour; expected schedule is estimated 6 hours per day.