Bus Driver at Robben Island Museum!

Are you a skilled and reliable driver with a passion for history and serving the public? Robben Island Museum (RIM) has an exciting opportunity for four experienced Bus Drivers on a 3-month contract basis, with the potential to extend. This unique role is based on Robben Island, a place of profound cultural and historical significance, where you will help transport visitors, residents, and staff around this iconic site. If you’re ready to play a part in delivering a memorable visitor experience while working in an extraordinary location, then read on!

About the Role

As a Bus Driver for the Robben Island Museum’s Infrastructure and Facilities Management (IFM) department, you’ll be responsible for safely transporting visitors and residents around the island, including trips to the historic prison. This role involves operating buses on pre-planned routes, following strict schedules, and ensuring passengers’ comfort and safety at all times. Due to the unique island setting, you must be prepared to stay overnight when necessary and work shifts that may include early mornings, evenings, and weekends.

This position offers a monthly salary of R13,982.38. While it’s a temporary position, it provides an excellent opportunity to work at one of South Africa’s most significant historical landmarks, gaining valuable experience in a truly unique work environment.

Key Responsibilities

As a Bus Driver at Robben Island Museum, you will take on a wide range of duties that contribute to both operational efficiency and visitor satisfaction. These responsibilities include:

1. Transportation of Passengers:
   • Follow designated routes and schedules to transport visitors and residents efficiently across the island, including trips to and from the harbour, residential areas, and significant landmarks.
   • Act as an ambassador for Robben Island, interacting courteously with passengers and ensuring they feel welcome.
2. Passenger Comfort and Safety:
   • Monitor and regulate heating and ventilation systems on the bus for passenger comfort.
   • Assist passengers, particularly elderly or disabled individuals, as they board and exit the vehicle, ensuring they are seated safely. Wheel ramps should be checked frequently and used as needed for accessibility.
   • Take responsibility for the safety of all passengers, conducting careful loading and unloading procedures.
3. Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection:
   • Conduct daily vehicle inspections, filling out inspection forms and reporting any issues to the supervisor or unit manager.
   • Check water, fuel, oil, and mechanical conditions before each trip to ensure the bus is in safe, working condition.
   • Follow the maintenance schedule as instructed and report any delays, accidents, or mechanical problems promptly.
4. Record-Keeping and Reporting:
   • Maintain an accurate logbook at all times, documenting each journey to keep operational records for auditing and quality control.
   • Prepare simple reports as required, detailing delays, incidents, or any issues encountered during trips.
   • Communicate anticipated delays to passengers, keeping them informed and comfortable throughout their journey.
5. Supporting Visitor Experience:
   • Act as a point of contact for passengers on the bus, providing brief information about potential delays or disruptions to ensure transparency.
   • Engage politely and respectfully with visitors, reflecting Robben Island’s values and commitment to a high-quality visitor experience.
6. Flexibility and Adaptability:
   • Given the nature of island life, you must be flexible with shift work and prepared to sleep over on Robben Island when required.
   • Complete any additional tasks assigned by the supervisor or unit manager, demonstrating a willingness to go above and beyond to support the IFM team.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

To qualify for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Background: Minimum Grade 10-12 qualification.
• Experience: At least five years of verified driving experience across both light and heavy vehicles, with demonstrated competence in passenger transport.
• Licensing and Certification:
  • Possess a valid, unendorsed EC1 or EC driver’s license, along with a valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP).
  • Maintain a good driving record with no history of drunk driving or major infractions.
• Knowledge and Skills:
  • A solid understanding of road safety rules and regulations is essential to ensure passenger safety.
  • Exceptional attention to detail, particularly for completing daily inspections and maintaining accurate logs.

Ideal Candidate Profile

RIM seeks candidates who are not only technically skilled but also embody qualities that align with our values and mission:

• Customer Service Orientation: A positive and respectful attitude toward visitors and residents, recognizing that you are part of their Robben Island experience.
• Reliability and Punctuality: You should be dependable, with a commitment to following schedules and ensuring timely, reliable transport services.
• Effective Communication: Strong interpersonal skills are important, as you’ll interact with a diverse group of passengers, including international tourists, local visitors, and residents.
• Adaptability: Willingness to adapt to a dynamic work environment, including flexibility to work shifts and stay on the island overnight when necessary.
• Attention to Safety: A proactive approach to safety, ensuring all transport activities align with the National Roads Traffic Acts and that all passengers feel secure during their travels on Robben Island.

Why Work for Robben Island Museum?

Robben Island Museum offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to work on an internationally recognized heritage site, known for its profound history and cultural significance. As a Bus Driver at RIM, you’ll have the chance to contribute to preserving and sharing this important legacy with visitors from around the world.

Working here also means being part of a mission-driven team dedicated to offering an outstanding visitor experience while safeguarding South African heritage. In addition to the competitive monthly salary of R13,982.38, RIM provides an enriching work environment where your efforts directly impact the island’s legacy and visitor satisfaction.

Application Process

If you meet the above qualifications and are eager to make a difference in this remarkable location, we encourage you to apply!

To apply, please submit the following documents:

1. Letter of Application: Write a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the position and your suitability based on the requirements.
2. Detailed CV: Provide a comprehensive CV highlighting your driving experience, previous employment, and any relevant skills.
3. Supporting Documentation: Include certified copies of your ID, driver’s license, PDP, and academic qualifications.
4. References: Provide contactable referees who can verify your work experience and suitability for the role.

Submission: Please send your application by clicking here using the subject line “Bus Driver.”

Important Note: If you do not hear from us within 30 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Commitment to Employment Equity

Robben Island Museum is an Equal Employment and Affirmative Action employer, dedicated to achieving a representative workforce that reflects South Africa’s diversity. We are committed to creating an inclusive work environment that embraces differences in race, gender, disability, religion, and other personal backgrounds. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified individuals.

Join Us in Making History!

Are you ready to embark on a unique career journey that combines your driving expertise with a role that contributes to South Africa’s heritage? As a Bus Driver at Robben Island Museum, you will play an important part in sharing the island’s legacy with thousands of visitors. Join our team and help us keep the spirit of Robben Island alive for future generations. Apply now and start your journey with Robben Island Museum!