Friendship Center is Santa Barbara’s trusted day program for older adults living with dementia Our mission is to provide compassionate, dignified care and support to our members and their families. Transportation ensures access to care, connection, and community.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a reliable, kind, and experienced professional driver to join our team full-time. The Driver plays a vital role in supporting the well-being and independence of our members by providing safe, timely, and friendly transportation to and from our adult day programs and on community excursions.
You will operate an ADA-accessible minivan or 9-passenger van, transporting older adults, many of whom are living with dementia. Experience transporting passengers is highly preferred. Friendship Center will provide dementia care training to ensure you feel confident and supported in this role.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide safe and courteous door-to-door transportation for program participants.
- Operate ADA-compliant vehicles with attention to mobility aids and accessibility needs.
- Support participants with getting in and out of the vehicle as needed.
- Maintain accurate schedules, communicate route changes, and follow daily transport plans.
- Complete daily pre- and post-trip vehicle safety checks; report any mechanical or safety concerns promptly.
- Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized vehicle at all times.
- Assist with loading and unloading supplies or equipment when needed.
- Engage with participants in a compassionate and respectful manner during transit.
- Participate in regular team meetings and required training, including dementia care best practices.
- Use basic technology (tablet or phone apps) for route planning, communication, and reporting.
Qualifications:
- Minimum 2 years of professional driving experience (e.g., transit, rideshare, school bus, delivery, medical transport).
- Passenger transport experience highly preferred.
- Experience working with older adults, people with disabilities, or vulnerable populations is ideal.
- Clean driving record with current California Driver’s License.
- Must pass pre-employment background check, DMV check, and drug screening.
- Must be reliable, punctual, and organized.
- Ability to communicate clearly and kindly, both in-person and via phone/text.
- Strong attention to safety, confidentiality, and sensitivity to the needs of others.
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and assist participants safely with entering and exiting vehicles.
What We Offer:
- Full-time schedule (Monday–Friday)
- Paid holidays and generous PTO
- Health insurance & dental reimbursement
- Supportive and mission-driven team
- Ongoing training in dementia care and person-centered approaches
- A meaningful opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of older adults and their families
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive pay that reflects your experience and commitment
- Comprehensive health & dental insurance (85% of premiums covered by employer)
- 401(k) retirement plan with up to 6% employer match
- Paid holidays, generous PTO, and mental health days to rest and recharge
- Ongoing training and professional development, including dementia care best practices
- Cross-training and mentorship to support your career path and build your confidence
- Opportunities to attend and speak at local conferences, contribute to new projects, and develop leadership skills
- A supportive, family-like culture where everyone’s voice matters
- Regular team celebrations, birthdays, potlucks, and meaningful recognition
- A commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging, for our members and our team
- Flexible scheduling where possible, with compassion for your real life
- Beautiful worksite near the beach with free parking and indoor/outdoor workspaces
- A place where you can show up as yourself, make a difference, and feel proud of your work.
To Apply:
Please send your resume and a brief statement of interest to admin@fcsb.org. Friendship Center is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.50 - $23.00 per hour
Expected hours: No more than 35 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- On-the-job training
- Paid orientation
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Safety equipment provided
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
- Morning shift
- No nights
- No weekends
Supplemental Pay:
- Bonus opportunities
Work Location: In person