Bus Driver - Le Cairde, Tipperary
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland works across the country in the heart of local communities providing dementia‑specific services and advocating for the rights of people affected by dementia to quality supports and services. Our vision is an Ireland where people affected by dementia are valued and supported. A national non‑profit organisation, the Society is person‑centred, rights‑based and grassroots‑led with the voice of the person with dementia and their carer at its core.
The Society is currently recruiting a Bus Driver to be based in Le Cairde Day Care Centre, Glenconnor Road, Clonmel, Co Tipperary E91wk75 who will report to the Day Centre Manager. This is a permanent contract working 16‑18 hours per week.
The Bus Driver is responsible for safely transporting clients between their place of residence and the day care centre as requested by the Day Centre Manager; in addition to any other driving duties as required by the Day Centre Manager in relation to the smooth running of the day care centre.
To be successful in this role you will need to hold an appropriate bus driving licence (Class D1) and have at least 3 years of previous experience driving similar or larger buses, a good knowledge of the local area to plan efficient routes, excellent driving skills, experience of driving public or private buses, and strong interpersonal skills that work well with others.
Job Title: Driver
Job Holder:
Job Location: Tipperary
Reports to: Day Care Centre Manager
Principal Accountabilities
* Plan appropriate routes for the collection and delivery of clients in conjunction with the Day Centre Manager.
* Ensure all clients are wearing seat belts and that wheelchairs are secured.
* Build trusting relationships with clients and their carers so that they feel secure and welcome on their way to and from the day care service.
* Respect the rights, dignity and confidentiality of all clients.
* Report observations or assessments of clients made during the journey to the Day Centre Manager or other appropriate person; pass along any communication from family members to the Day Centre Manager promptly.
* Carry out regular safety checks of the vehicle and equipment (First Aid kit) and ensure all equipment is in good working order; note and report any findings to the Day Centre Manager.
* Keep the vehicle clean and tidy (inside and out) at all times; wash the vehicle when necessary and claim expenses with relevant receipt.
* Inform the Day Centre Manager of any difficulties with the bus and do not undertake repairs yourself.
* Maintain appropriate daily mileage figures, repairs and servicing records.
* Report and fill in any Incident Report forms immediately following any incidents to avoid loss of important information.
* Promote teamwork by assisting and supporting other staff in their duties.
* Ensure contact with clients is made via the Day Centre Manager; transport staff should not telephone family members unless instructed by the Day Centre Manager to avoid confusion.
* Plan the working day ahead of time (e.g. who is driving & who is escorting); refuel the vehicle after evening delivery of clients to be ready for the morning.
* Use the vehicle only at the direction of the Day Centre Manager and for no other purpose than the business of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland.
Service Administration
* Adhere to service provision, health & safety policies and procedures as set out by the Society.
* Assist in promoting a positive and safe environment for both clients and staff; wear appropriate non‑slip footwear and a yellow high‑visibility vest.
* Take advantage of training opportunities identified by the Day Centre Manager.
* Participate in staff meetings and one‑to‑one meetings with the Day Centre Manager / CES to contribute to the ongoing development and enhancement of the service.
* Ensure the bus is kept clean and in good working condition at all times (oil, tyres, brakes, lights, doors, seat belts) and that the resources of the centre are used correctly.
* Keep tax and insurance certificates up to date.
* If on any day that medications that may cause drowsiness need to be used, notify the Day Centre Manager and ensure duties that day do not involve driving.
Job Holder Entry Requirements
Essential knowledge, skills and behaviours required:
Knowledge (Education & related experience)
* D Driving Licence for more than 8 passengers, maximum allowable mass of not greater than 750 kg.
* D1 Driving Licence for up to 16 passengers, not exceeding 8 metres and maximum allowable mass of not greater than 750 kg.
* Current & up‑to‑date Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
* Preferably 3 years of previous experience driving similar or larger buses.
Skills (Special training or competence)
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
* Good knowledge of the local area to facilitate the planning of efficient routes.
* Good observational and organisational skills.
* Ability to work as part of a team and on own initiative.
* Training in dementia, care of elderly or related area.
* QQI Healthcare training an advantage.
Key Behaviours
* Patience, empathy, reliability, flexibility, enthusiasm.
Closing date for applications is 13th November 2025.
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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