Driver

Position Summary:

The Puerta de Oro Program Assistant/Driver supports the safe, welcoming, and reliable operation of LCDA’s Puerta de Oro senior program. The position provides transportation for participating seniors, maintains timely communication regarding pickup and drop-off arrangements, helps prepare and maintain program spaces, assists with planned activities, and completes basic program documentation.

This role works directly with older adults and their families and must demonstrate patience, respect, reliability, cultural sensitivity, and sound judgment. The employee may assist staff with basic intake and needs-assessment forms to identify participant needs and potential referrals. These duties are non-clinical and do not include diagnosing conditions, conducting clinical assessments, or providing case-management services.

Essential Job Duties

Transportation and Safety

• Safely operate an LCDA wheelchair-accessible vehicle to pick up and/or drop off Puerta de Oro participants according to approved routes and schedules.
• Assist seniors when entering and exiting the vehicle and help ensure mobility needs are addressed appropriately within the employee’s training.
• Complete required training and safely operate the wheelchair lift and mobility-device securement equipment in accordance with manufacturer instructions and LCDA procedures.
• Follow all traffic laws, LCDA transportation procedures, and applicable vehicle-safety requirements.
• Complete required pre-trip or post-trip checks and promptly report vehicle concerns, accidents, incidents, or safety hazards.
• Maintain accurate transportation, mileage, rider, and trip records as assigned.
• Drive participants for occasional program outings, partner visits, or approved activities.

Transportation Communication and Coordination

• Communicate with seniors and/or family members to confirm transportation needs, schedule changes, cancellations, and relevant accommodations.
• Coordinate routine participant transportation with LCDA’s transportation partners, including supporting new-rider arrangements and providing required rider information.
• Communicate transportation delays, participant absences, safety concerns, and service issues promptly.
• Refer complex, sensitive, or unresolved transportation matters to the Latino Club Coordinator / Program Supervisor.
• Maintain accurate transportation records and protect confidential participant information.

Senior Program and Participant Support

• Suggest and brainstorm activity ideas for consideration by the Program Supervisor.
• Assist with setup, materials, participant engagement, and implementation of educational, recreational, cultural, wellness, and social activities planned and coordinated by the Program Supervisor.
• Provide courteous, patient, and culturally responsive assistance to participating seniors.
• Assist staff with basic participant intake forms, needs assessments, attendance records, and follow-up documentation.
• Observe and document participant needs or concerns and promptly refer them to the Program Supervisor; do not provide clinical assessment, diagnosis, or case management.
• Support participant engagement and help create an inclusive environment that reflects LCDA’s values of Respect, Excellence, Compassion, and Purpose.

Program Space, Supplies, and General Support

• Set up and reset activity areas, tables, chairs, materials, refreshments, and supplies before and after programming.
• Maintain a clean, orderly, and welcoming program environment through light cleaning and routine organization.
• Monitor supplies and notify the Program Supervisor when program, cleaning, transportation, or activity materials need replenishment.
• Support special events, outings, and other Puerta de Oro program needs as assigned.
• Follow LCDA policies related to safety, confidentiality, documentation, professional conduct, and participant boundaries.

Competency Statements:

• Demonstrates cultural sensitivity, professionalism, and appropriate boundaries when working with diverse individuals and communities.
• Communicates effectively and works collaboratively with clients, coworkers, and community partners.
• Provides reliable, respectful, and responsive customer service while maintaining safety and confidentiality.
• Demonstrates strong organization, documentation, dependability, and attention to detail.