Transportation and Safety Specialist – Defiance, OH

Transportation & Safety Specialist – Head Start

Do you have a passion for training others and making a difference in your community?

Our Head Start program is seeking a motivated and energetic Transportation & Safety Specialist to lead the way in staff development and safety operations. In this vital role, you’ll serve as a mentor and trainer for employees working toward their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and act as a key player in maintaining the safety of our transportation program and facilities.

This is more than a driving job—it’s a leadership opportunity to help others grow, ensure children’s safety, and support the mission of Head Start through high-quality training and oversight.

What You’ll Do:

As a certified On-Bus Instructor (OBI), you will:

• Serve as a role model and trainer, guiding staff through the process of obtaining and maintaining their CDL (Class C with Passenger/School Bus Endorsement).

• Provide hands-on driving instruction and in-service training, ensuring staff feel confident and capable behind the wheel.

• Oversee the safety, cleanliness, and maintenance of NOCAC buses and agency vehicles.

• Conduct vehicle inspections, manage service records, and coordinate necessary repairs and estimates.

• Present the Bus and Pedestrian Safety curriculum to children and families in engaging, hands-on sessions.

• Lead First Aid/CPR certification trainings for staff and parents, promoting a culture of preparedness.

• Monitor bus routes, provide feedback to drivers, and substitute when needed.

• Support managers in ensuring facility and site safety standards are upheld.

Why Join NOCAC?

Hourly Wage: $19.79 – $23.28
Schedule: Full-time, M–TH, daytime hours (Summers Off!)

We offer more than a paycheck—we offer purpose, community, and growth.

What’s in it for you?

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Short-Term Disability, and Life Insurance

• Retirement Plan with up to 6% Agency Match

• Paid Time Off: Personal, Vacation, and All Federal Holidays

• Three-day weekends and Summers Off

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility

• The opportunity to directly impact the lives of young children and their families

What You Bring to the Table:

• A friendly, positive attitude and strong sense of responsibility

• A passion for training and helping others succeed

• A commitment to maintaining high safety and cleanliness standards

• A valid Ohio driver’s license, insurability under NOCAC policy, and the ability to pass a background check

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED (required)

• Must possess or be able to obtain:

  • An OBI certification

  • A CDL Class C with Passenger/School Bus Endorsement within 90 days of hire

  • American Red Cross Trainer Certification (First Aid/CPR)

• At least two years of experience training adults—preferably in transportation and/or safety

• Ability to stand for extended periods and work in various weather conditions

• Must be at least 21 years of age