Safety Manager

The Safety Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and compliant operation of a school bus terminal. This position is responsible for overseeing driver hiring, training, compliance, and safety performance. The Safety Manager also serves as a key liaison between drivers, school personnel, parents, and the public. The ideal candidate is dependable, professional, and committed to maintaining the highest safety standards in student transportation.

Essential Responsibilities

• Recruit, interview, hire, and coach school bus drivers.
• Schedule and coordinate all driver training and CDL testing in accordance with DOT regulations.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date driver qualification and personnel files, including DOT compliance records.
• Stay informed of Federal and State DOT regulations, ensuring full regulatory compliance.
• Conduct background checks and motor vehicle record (MVR) reviews for driver candidates.
• Collaborate with terminal management and dispatch on safety matters and operational concerns.
• Plan and facilitate monthly driver safety meetings to promote awareness and reinforce best practices.
• Respond to and resolve safety concerns from drivers, parents, students, and school district personnel.
• Conduct accident investigations, document findings, and report to insurance providers.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, treating all employees equitably and respectfully.
• Represent Kobussen Buses Ltd. professionally in all interactions; maintain confidentiality and uphold company policies.
• Foster positive relationships with school district staff, parents, and the community.
• Serve in an on-call capacity on occasional weekends, responding to urgent safety matters or incidents.
• Create a welcoming environment for staff and external visitors by communicating clearly, professionally, and supportively.

Supervisory Responsibilities This role has limited direct supervisory responsibilities but requires leadership, coordination, and collaboration with office and driving staff.

Education & Experience

• Associate’s Degree required; Bachelor’s Degree in Safety, Transportation, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Law enforcement, transportation safety, or fleet operations experience highly desirable.
• Minimum 1–2 years of Human Resources experience, particularly in hiring, employee relations, and safety compliance.
• Prior experience with driver training and DOT regulations is strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Strong knowledge of DOT compliance, safety standards, and incident response.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage sensitive situations calmly and fairly.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Comfortable learning and using transportation or HR software platforms.
• Must be able to sit at a desk for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Must maintain a reliable attendance record and be punctual.
• Knowledge of the local community and school districts served by the terminal.
• Must obtain and maintain a valid CDL with appropriate endorsements (training may be provided).

Schedule

• This position typically words Monday–Friday, daytime hours.
• A consistent schedule is required, though some flexibility may be accommodated.
• Occasional evening or weekend hours may be necessary to respond to safety issues or operational needs.