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 A-1 APPENDIX A Copy of National Survey Instrument Note: In several places, notes have been added indicating that if certain responses were given the survey skipped to a specific question. This text (e.g., âSkip to Question XXâ) was not in the actual survey. Since the survey was electronic, answering questions a certain way resulted in the respondent being automatically taken to the next appropriate question. The âSkip toâ¦â text has been added to this paper copy to give the reader an idea of the actual flow of the survey.
Page 1 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Please provide contact information Introduction This survey is being conducted as part of a national research project sponsored by the Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP), which is part of the National Academy of Sciences. The purpose of the research is to examine the factors that affect the recruitment and retention of vehicle operators used in the provision of ADA complimentary paratransit services. Best practices and guidance on improving recruitment and retention will be developed. The survey is designed to gather information about ADA complementary paratransit vehicle operator recruitment and retention from public transit agencies that operate these services directly, as well as from private entities that provide ADA complementary paratransit service under contract to public transit agencies. IF YOU ARE A PUBLIC TRANSIT AGENCY THAT CONTRACTS FOR SOME OR ALL OF YOUR ADA COMPLEMENTARY PARATRANSIT SERVICE, PLEASE COMPLETE THE SURVEY AND ALSO FORWARD THE SURVEY LINK TO YOUR CONTRACTED SERVICE PROVIDERS THAT HIRE VEHICLE OPERATORS AND PROVIDE SERVICES DIRECTLY. The survey has a separate "contractor" section that requests vehicle operator recruitment and retention information from private contractors. If you utilize a contracted "broker" to manage ADA paratransit services, it is also important that the broker forward the survey link to any subcontractors who operate ADA paratransit services under their direction. HELPFUL HINT: The survey asks PUBLIC ENTITIES to provide service statistics for the most recent fiscal year (ridership, miles, hours, costs). You may want to gather this information before proceeding. Use the tab key or your mouse to move between entry boxes; do not use the arrow keys. Survey responses will not be saved until the NEXT link on a page or the DONE link on the last page has been clicked. If you work from the same computer terminal, you may use the survey link provided in your email to go back and edit your response at any time, prior to completion of the survey. Once you have clicked on the DONE button, you will not be able to edit your response. This research is being conducted by the TranSystems Corporation. For technical questions, or assistance in completing this survey, please contact Caroline Ferris of TranSystems at crferris@transystems.com. Thank you for your assistance in providing information about this important issue. Contact Information Full Business Name of Agency or Company: System/ Company Abbreviation or Acronym, if Applicable: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Person Completing Survey: Title: Phone: Fax: E-mail Address: Agency Type
Page 2 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Are you a public transit agency or a private company providing ADA paratransit services under contract? In your opinion, which of the following statements best describes the impact that vehicle operator recruitment and retention has had on ADA paratransit service quality and performance in your area? Vehicle operator recruitment and retention issues: What was the reported on-time pick-up performance for your ADA paratransit service in the most recent reporting year? How is the on-time window defined? (e.g., 15 min. before to 15 min after, 0 min. before to 30 min. after, etc.) Please provide the following service statistics for your ADA paratransit service for the last full fiscal year. Please use National Transit Database (NTD) data definitions. A. Total ADA paratransit ridership: Impact of Recruitment and Retention ADA Paratransit Service Performance, Statistics, and Cost a1. ADA eligible rider trips for the most recent annual reporting period: a2. PCA and companion trips for the most recent annual reporting period: a3. Total annual ridership for the most recent annual reporting period (a1 + a2): A public transit agency nmlkj A private company providing ADA paratransit services under contract nmlkj have not impacted our ADA paratransit service performance. nmlkj have had a minimal adverse impact on our ADA paratransit service performance. nmlkj have had a moderate adverse impact on our ADA paratransit service performance. nmlkj have had a significant adverse impact on our ADA paratransit service. nmlkj Not sure. nmlkj
Page 3 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Other Operating Statistics Do you operate any of your ADA paratransit service directly, with your own vehicle operators? Please indicate type of organization below. You indicated that your organization provides ADA paratransit service for a local public transit agency. Please identify the transit agency you provide services for: Does your company hire vehicle operators and operate services directly as part of the local ADA paratransit program? B. Total annual vehicle-revenue-miles for the most recent reporting period: C. Total annual vehicle-revenue-hours for the most recent reporting period: D. Number of rider âno-showsâ during the most recent annual reporting period: E. Number of service provider âmissed tripsâ during the most recent annual reporting period: F. Number of preventable accidents during the most recent annual reporting period: G. Total ADA paratransit service annual operating costs for the most recent reporting period: Direct Operation of Service Type of Organization Contracting Agency Type of Contract Vehicle Operator Information No, we do not directlty operate service nmlkj Yes, we directly operate some or all of our ADA paratransit service nmlkj Private, for-profit company that serves as a contractor or subcontractor to provide ADA paratransit service. nmlkj Private, non-profit company that serves as a contractor or subcontractor to provide ADA paratransit service. nmlkj Other (please specify): nmlkj Yes, we hire vehicle operators and operate ADA paratransit services directly nmlkj No, we only provide other contract services for the public entity (e.g., only "broker" management services, or only call center services) nmlkj
Page 4 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Please indicate below the number of full-time and part-time vehicle operators used to provide ADA paratransit service. Please provide the following ADA paratransit vehicle operator workforce turnover data for the most recent 12 month period: In the past 12 months, how many ADA paratransit vehicle operator candidates were recruited and started training, and how many of those completed training? If a high percentage of trainees (e.g., more than 33%) do not complete training, why do you think this is the case? Please indicate below the hourly wages for PARATRANSIT vehicle operators. Number of full-time paratransit vehicle operators: Number of part-time paratransit vehicle operators: Total number of paratransit vehicle operators: Clarification/ Notes: a. Total number of vehicle operators employed (total no. from previous answer): b. Number of vehicle operators who resigned voluntarily during the past 12-months (after training): c. Number of vehicle operators who have been terminated during the past 12-months (after training): d. Total number of vehicle operators who left employment (after training) during the past 12-months (calculated as b + c): e. Annual turnover rate/percentage (calculated as d/a x 100): a. Total number of vehicle operator candidates in the past 12 months that started training: b. Total number of trainees that completed training in the past 12 months: c. Training completion rate (calculated as b/a x 100): Paratransit Wage Training wage for paratransit vehicle operators: Starting wage for paratransit vehicle operators: Maximum wage for paratransit vehicle operators: Unions Other Vehicle Other/
Page 5 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Are ADA paratransit vehicle operators represented by a labor union? Do you also employ fixed route vehicle operators who provide fixed route service? Please indicate below the hourly wages for FIXED ROUTE vehicle operators. If the answers to the previous questions indicate significant differences in hourly pay between paratransit vehicle operators and fixed route vehicle operators, have you made any efforts to move toward more equal pay in order to ensure a more stable, experienced paratransit vehicle operator workforce? With regard to moving toward equal pay for paratransit and fixed route drivers, please describe the efforts made and the qualitative or quantitative results: Operation of Two Modes Fixed Route Wages Training wage for fixed route vehicle operators: Starting wage for fixed route vehicle operators: Maximum wage for fixed route vehicle operators: Efforts Toward Equal Pay Equal Pay No nmlkj Yes, all nmlkj Yes, some nmlkj No nmlkj Yes nmlkj Yes, we have made changes toward equalizing pay between our paratransit and fixed route vehicle operators. nmlkj No, we have not made any efforts to equalize pay between fixed route and paratransit vehicle operators. nmlkj Not applicable, there are not significant differences in pay rates between fixed route and ADA paratransit vehicle operators. nmlkj
Page 6 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Why have you chosen to not move toward equalizing pay between fixed route and paratransit vehicle operators? Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between ADA paratransit vehicle operators and fixed route vehicle operators ? Please indicate the number of paid vacation and paid holidays days per year provided to full-time and part-time ADA paratransit and fixed route vehicle operators. Operator Relationships Fringe Benefits- ADA and FR Full-time paratransit vehicle operators- days/ year Part-time paratransit vehicle operators- days/ year Full-time fixed route vehicle operators- days/ year Part-time fixed route vehicle operators- days/ year Paid vacation (at start) Paid vacation (max.) Paid holidays Paratransit and fixed route vehicle operators are hired and managed separately. There is little crossover between the two groups. nmlkj Vehicle operators are typically hired first for paratransit and then can move to fixed route if there is an opening. Movement between paratransit and fixed route HAS NOT created a significant turnover problem for paratransit, though. nmlkj Vehicle operators are typically hired first for paratransit and then move to fixed route if there is an opening. Movement between paratransit and fixed route HAS created a significant turnover issue for paratransit. nmlkj All vehicle operators are at the same pay scale and can work on either fixed route or paratransit. nmlkj Not Sure. nmlkj Other (describe): nmlkj Other (please specify)
Page 7 TCRP Project F-13 Survey In the table below, please indicate the types of fringe benefits provided to full-time and part-time ADA paratransit and fixed route vehicle operators. Check the appropriate box if the benefit is provided. If a health care plan is provided, what is the typical employee contribution (as a percentage of the total premium) to health care coverage? What percentage of full-time and part-time vehicle operators work âsplit shiftsâ (e.g., morning and afternoon with an extended break in the mid-day)? Do you have pay differentials (e.g., higher pay rates) for fixed route or paratransit vehicle operators for any of the following? Full-time paratransit vehicle operators Part-time paratransit vehicle operators Full-time fixed route vehicle operators Part-time fixed route vehicle operators Individual health care plan gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Family health care plan gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Long-term disability coverage gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Paid sick leave gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Company contribution to retirement gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Paratransit vehicle operators Fixed route vehicle operators Typical percent contribution for INDIVIDUAL health care coverage: Typical percent contribution for FAMILY health care coverage: Split Shifts and Pay Differentials- ADA and FR Operators Fixed route vehicle operators Paratransit vehicle operators Percentage of FULL-TIME vehicle operators working split shifts: Percentage of PART-TIME vehicle operators working split shifts: Fixed route vehicle operators Paratransit vehicle operators Vehicle operators who work split shifts: Vehicle operators who work part time shifts: Vehicle operators who work evenings or weekends: Fringe Benefits- ADA Operators Other (please specify)/ Clarification/ Notes: Other (please specify)
Page 8 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Please indicate the number of paid vacation and paid holidays days per year provided to full-time and part-time ADA paratransit vehicle operators. In the table below, please indicate the types of fringe benefits provided to full-time and part-time ADA paratransit vehicle operators. Check the appropriate box if the benefit is provided. If a health care plan is provided, what is the typical employee contribution (as a percentage of the total premium) to health care coverage? What percentage of full-time and part-time vehicle operators work âsplit shiftsâ (e.g., morning and afternoon with an extended break in the mid-day)? Full-time paratransit vehicle operators- days/ year Part-time paratransit vehicle operators- days/ year Paid vacation (at start) Paid vacation (max.) Paid holidays Full-time paratransit vehicle operators Part-time paratransit vehicle operators Individual health care plan gfedc gfedc Family health care plan gfedc gfedc Long-term disability coverage gfedc gfedc Paid sick leave gfedc gfedc Company contribution to retirement gfedc gfedc Typical percent contribution for INDIVIDUAL health care coverage: Typical percent contribution for FAMILY health care coverage: Split Shifts and Pay Differentials Percentage of FULL-TIME vehicle operators working split shifts: Percentage of PART-TIME vehicle operators working split shifts: Other (please specify) Other (please specify)/ Clarification/ Notes: You
Page 9 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Do you have pay differentials (e.g., higher pay rates) for ADA paratransit vehicle operators for any of the following? Please indicate below the types of pre-qualifications and background checks that are required for ADA paratransit vehicle operators in your system (check all that apply). How many hours of classroom and on-the-road training are required for new ADA paratransit vehicle operators? Yes No Not Sure Vehicle operators who work split shifts: nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Vehicle operators who work part time shifts: nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Vehicle operators who work evenings or weekends: nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Vehicle Operator Requirements Classroom training hours: On-the-road training hours: Work Assignment Other (please specify) Paratransit vehicle operators must meet a minimum age requirement. gfedc All paratransit vehicle operators must have a CDL license. gfedc Only those paratransit vehicle operators who drive larger vehicles must have a CDL license.. gfedc A driving history check is performed and all paratransit vehicle operators must have a good driving record. gfedc A criminal background check is performed and paratransit vehicle operators must have a clean record. gfedc All paratransit vehicle operators must pass drug and alcohol screening tests. gfedc All paratransit vehicle operators must be proficient in English. gfedc Other (describe): gfedc
Page 10 TCRP Project F-13 Survey How is work assigned to ADA paratransit vehicle operators? Which of the following statements best describes your current situation in terms of your ADA paratransit vehicle operator workforce? Vehicle Operator Recruitment and Retention Vehicle operators pick work shifts based on seniority. nmlkj Vehicle operators are hired for a specific work shift and the shift does not vary. nmlkj Vehicle operators are assigned work shifts by managers/schedulers as needed. nmlkj Not sure. nmlkj Vehicle operators pick work shifts on another basis (describe)/ Other: nmlkj There currently is a full complement of ADA paratransit vehicle operators and we have not experienced any significant vehicle operator recruitment or retention issues. nmlkj We do not always have a full complement of ADA paratransit vehicle operators and vehicle operator recruitment and retention is somewhat of a problem. nmlkj There is a constant shortage of ADA paratransit vehicle operators and we have experienced significant, ongoing problems with vehicle operator recruitment and retention. nmlkj Not sure. nmlkj Other/ Comments: nmlkj You
Page 11 TCRP Project F-13 Survey In your opinion, how much of an adverse impact does each of the following factors have on your efforts to RECRUIT ADA paratransit vehicle operators? No Impact Little Impact Some Impact Moderate Impact Significant Impact Labor market/general shortage of workers nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Competition with other paratransit/transit services nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Pre-qualification requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Drug testing nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Background checks nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Lack of career advancement opportunities nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Vehicle type/size/design nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Job description/nature of the job nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Shift structure/hours available nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Wages offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Fringe benefits offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Union issues nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Other (describe)/ Comments:
Page 12 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Please indicate if you have used any of the approaches listed below to improve ADA paratransit vehicle operator RECRUITMENT and, if so, the level of success with each approach. If you indicated above that one or more approaches have been âUsed With Good Success,â please provide additional information on these âbest practiceâ approaches. Not Used Used with Little Success Used with Some Success Used with Good Success Signing bonuses for recruits nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Referral bonus paid to other employees nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Paid training nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Targeted advertising nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Advertising in non-traditional ways nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Use of job fairs nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased hourly wages nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved fringe benefits offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Extended shifts to increase total take home pay nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Provide performance/recognition awards/payments nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased career advancement opportunities nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj GPS or other technologies to assist with the job nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Provide uniforms nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Other (describe)/ Comments:
Page 13 TCRP Project F-13 Survey In your opinion, how much of an adverse impact does each of the following factors have on your efforts to RETAIN ADA paratransit vehicle operators? Please indicate if you have used any of the approaches listed below to improve ADA paratransit vehicle operator RETENTION and, if so, the level of success with each approach. No Impact Little Impact Some Impact Moderate Impact Significant Impact Demands of the job nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Dissatisfaction with work shifts assigned nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Lack of opportunities for advancement nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Lack of recognition and performance incentives nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Lack of support from dispatchers or supervisors nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Procedures for resolving driver issues/grievances nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Wages offered (find better paying jobs) nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Fringe benefits offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Not Used Used with Little Success Used with Some Success Used with Good Success Targeted recruitment on particular applicant skills nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Performance bonuses nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Employee recognition programs nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Team-building efforts nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased opportunities for driver feedback nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved complaint investigation/mediation nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Keeping drivers updated on policies and procedures nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved dispatch support nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj GPS or other technologies to assist with the job nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved vehicle condition and/or work environment nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Modified/improved driver work shifts nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased training opportunities for operators/drivers nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Training in personnel management for managers nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased hourly wages nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved fringe benefits offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Extended shifts to increase total take home pay nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Exit interviews with drivers who voluntarily leave nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Other (describe)/ Comments: Other
Page 14 TCRP Project F-13 Survey If you indicated above that one or more approaches have been âUsed With Good Success,â please provide additional information on these âbest practiceâ approaches. If you have any written descriptions of programs and approaches that you feel have been particularly effective in improving ADA paratransit vehicle operator recruitment and/or retention, or any analysis that shows impacts on performance, please forward this information to the address listed at the end of this survey or let us know if we can contact you to get a copy. Do you contract with private companies to operate all or some of your ADA paratransit service? Use of Contractors Contractors Used Other (describe)/ Comments: I will forward information to the address listed at the end of this survey. nmlkj We have written information that may be helpful. Please contact me to get a copy. nmlkj We do not have any written information on this topic to share. nmlkj You can get a copy of the information on-line at: nmlkj No nmlkj Yes nmlkj
Page 15 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Please list the companies that you contract with to provide all of some of your ADA paratransit service. Please also forward the survey link to them and ask that they complete the survey as well. Please use the table below to indicate if you have used any of the listed procurement and contracting approaches to ensure that an adequate and stable vehicle operator workforce is provided. Also indicate the effectiveness of each approach used. Procurement/ Contracting Approach: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Procurement/ Contracting Approach Not Used Used; Little Impact Used; Some Impact Used; Moderate Impact Used; Significant Impact Included language in the RFP indicating that a stable, experienced vehicle operator workforce was expected nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Assigned points in the evaluation process on whether the proposal would provide a stable, experienced vehicle operator workforce nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Set a goal for maximum vehicle operator turnover nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Included âliving wageâ or other minimum wage standards in the RFP nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Included incentives and/or penalties in the contract related to maintaining an adequate vehicle operator workforce or covering all runs assigned nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Contract Approaches with Some, Moderate, or Significant Impact Other (please specify)/ Additional Comments:
Page 16 TCRP Project F-13 Survey If you indicated in the previous question that one or more approaches have been used with âSome Impact,â âModerate Impact,â or âSignificant Impact,â please provide additional information on these âbest practiceâ approaches. If you have any written descriptions of the contracting approaches that you feel have been particularly effective in improving ADA paratransit vehicle operator recruitment and/or retention, please forward this information to the address listed at the end of this survey or let us know if we can contact you to get a copy. Please indicate below the number of full-time and part-time vehicle operators used to provide ADA paratransit service. Please provide the following ADA paratransit vehicle operator workforce turnover data for the most recent 12 month period: Written Descriptions of Contracting Approaches Vehicle Operator Information Number of full-time paratransit vehicle operators: Number of part-time paratransit vehicle operators: Total number of paratransit vehicle operators: Clarification/ Notes: a. Total number of vehicle operators employed at the (total no. from previous answer): b. Number of vehicle operators who resigned voluntarily during the past 12-months (after training): c. Number of vehicle operators who have been terminated during the past 12-months (after training): d. Total number of vehicle operators who left employment (after training) during the past 12-months (calculated as b + c): e. Annual turnover rate/percentage (calculated as d/a x 100): I will forward information to the address listed at the end of this survey. nmlkj We have written information that may be helpful. Please contact me to get a copy. nmlkj We do not have any written information on this topic to share. nmlkj You can get a copy of the information on-line at: nmlkj Other
Page 17 TCRP Project F-13 Survey In the past 12 months, how many ADA paratransit vehicle operator candidates were recruited and started training, and how many of those completed training? If a high percentage of trainees (e.g., more than 33%) do not complete training, why do you think this is the case? Please indicate below the hourly wages for PARATRANSIT vehicle operators. Are ADA paratransit vehicle operators represented by a labor union? Do you operate fixed route services in the same area as your paratransit service? Please indicate below the hourly wages for FIXED ROUTE vehicle operators. a. Total number of vehicle operator candidates in the past 12 months that started training: b. Total number of trainees that completed training in the past 12 months: c. Training completion rate (calculated as b/a x 100): Paratransit Wage Training wage for paratransit vehicle operators: Starting wage for paratransit vehicle operators: Maximum wage for paratransit vehicle operators: Unions Operation of Two Modes Fixed Route Wages Training wage for fixed route vehicle operators: Starting wage for fixed route vehicle operators: Maximum wage for fixed route vehicle operators: No nmlkj Yes, all nmlkj Yes, some nmlkj No nmlkj Yes nmlkj Vehicle Other/
Page 18 TCRP Project F-13 Survey If the answers to the previous questions indicate significant differences in hourly pay between paratransit vehicle operators and fixed route vehicle operators, have you made any efforts to move toward more equal pay in order to ensure a more stable, experienced paratransit vehicle operator workforce? With regard to moving toward equal pay for paratransit and fixed route drivers, please describe the efforts made and the qualitative or quantitative results: Why have you chosen to not move toward equalizing pay between fixed route and paratransit vehicle operators? Efforts Toward Equal Pay Equal Pay Operator Relationships Yes, we have made changes toward equalizing pay between our paratransit and fixed route vehicle operators. nmlkj No, we have not made any efforts to equalize pay between fixed route and paratransit vehicle operators. nmlkj Not applicable, there are not significant differences in pay rates between fixed route and ADA paratransit vehicle operators. nmlkj
Page 19 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between ADA paratransit vehicle operators and fixed route vehicle operators ? Please indicate the number of paid vacation and paid holidays days per year provided to full-time and part-time ADA paratransit and fixed route vehicle operators. Fringe Benefits- ADA and FR Full-time paratransit vehicle operators- days/ year Part-time paratransit vehicle operators- days/ year Full-time fixed route vehicle operators- days/ year Part-time fixed route vehicle operators- days/ year Paid vacation (at start) Paid vacation (max.) Paid holidays Paratransit and fixed route vehicle operators are hired and managed separately. There is little crossover between the two groups. nmlkj Vehicle operators are typically hired first for paratransit and then can move to fixed route if there is an opening. Movement between paratransit and fixed route HAS NOT created a significant turnover problem for paratransit, though. nmlkj Vehicle operators are typically hired first for paratransit and then move to fixed route if there is an opening. Movement between paratransit and fixed route HAS created a significant turnover issue for paratransit. nmlkj All vehicle operators are at the same pay scale and can work on either fixed route or paratransit. nmlkj Not Sure. nmlkj Other (describe): nmlkj Other (please specify)
Page 20 TCRP Project F-13 Survey In the table below, please indicate the types of fringe benefits provided to full-time and part-time ADA paratransit and fixed route vehicle operators. Check the appropriate box if the benefit is provided. If a health care plan is provided, what is the typical employee contribution (as a percentage of the total premium) to health care coverage? What percentage of full-time and part-time vehicle operators work âsplit shiftsâ (e.g., morning and afternoon with an extended break in the mid-day)? Do you have pay differentials (e.g., higher pay rates) for fixed route or paratransit vehicle operators for any of the following? Full-time paratransit vehicle operators Part-time paratransit vehicle operators Full-time fixed route vehicle operators Part-time fixed route vehicle operators Individual health care plan gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Family health care plan gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Long-term disability coverage gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Paid sick leave gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Company contribution to retirement gfedc gfedc gfedc gfedc Paratransit vehicle operators Fixed route vehicle operators Typical percent contribution for INDIVIDUAL health care coverage: Typical percent contribution for FAMILY health care coverage: Split Shifts and Pay Differentials- ADA and FR Operators Fixed route vehicle operators Paratransit vehicle operators Percentage of FULL-TIME vehicle operators working split shifts: Percentage of PART-TIME vehicle operators working split shifts: Fixed route vehicle operators Paratransit vehicle operators Vehicle operators who work split shifts: Vehicle operators who work part time shifts: Vehicle operators who work evenings or weekends: Fringe Benefits- ADA Operators Other (please specify)/ Clarification/ Notes: Other (please specify)
Page 21 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Please indicate the number of paid vacation and paid holidays days per year provided to full-time and part-time ADA paratransit vehicle operators. In the table below, please indicate the types of fringe benefits provided to full-time and part-time ADA paratransit vehicle operators. Check the appropriate box if the benefit is provided. If a health care plan is provided, what is the typical employee contribution (as a percentage of the total premium) to health care coverage? What percentage of full-time and part-time vehicle operators work âsplit shiftsâ (e.g., morning and afternoon with an extended break in the mid-day)? Full-time paratransit vehicle operators- days/ year Part-time paratransit vehicle operators- days/ year Paid vacation (at start) Paid vacation (max.) Paid holidays Full-time paratransit vehicle operators Part-time paratransit vehicle operators Individual health care plan gfedc gfedc Family health care plan gfedc gfedc Long-term disability coverage gfedc gfedc Paid sick leave gfedc gfedc Company contribution to retirement gfedc gfedc Typical percent contribution for INDIVIDUAL health care coverage: Typical percent contribution for FAMILY health care coverage: Split Shifts and Pay Differentials Percentage of FULL-TIME vehicle operators working split shifts: Percentage of PART-TIME vehicle operators working split shifts: Other (please specify) Other (please specify)/ Clarification/ Notes: You
Page 22 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Do you have pay differentials (e.g., higher pay rates) for ADA paratransit vehicle operators for any of the following? Please indicate below the types of pre-qualifications and background checks that are required for ADA paratransit vehicle operators in your system (check all that apply). How many hours of classroom and on-the-road training are required for new ADA paratransit vehicle operators? Yes No Not Sure Vehicle operators who work split shifts: nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Vehicle operators who work part time shifts: nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Vehicle operators who work evenings or weekends: nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Vehicle Operator Requirements Classroom training hours: On-the-road training hours: Work Assignment Other (please specify) Paratransit vehicle operators must meet a minimum age requirement. gfedc All paratransit vehicle operators must have a CDL license. gfedc Only those paratransit vehicle operators who drive larger vehicles must have a CDL license.. gfedc A driving history check is performed and all paratransit vehicle operators must have a good driving record. gfedc A criminal background check is performed and paratransit vehicle operators must have a clean record. gfedc All paratransit vehicle operators must pass drug and alcohol screening tests. gfedc All paratransit vehicle operators must be proficient in English. gfedc Other (describe): gfedc
Page 23 TCRP Project F-13 Survey How is work assigned to ADA paratransit vehicle operators? Which of the following statements best describes your current situation in terms of your ADA paratransit vehicle operator workforce? Vehicle Operator Recruitment and Retention Vehicle operators pick work shifts based on seniority. nmlkj Vehicle operators are hired for a specific work shift and the shift does not vary. nmlkj Vehicle operators are assigned work shifts by managers/schedulers as needed. nmlkj Not sure. nmlkj Vehicle operators pick work shifts on another basis (describe)/ Other: nmlkj There currently is a full complement of ADA paratransit vehicle operators and we have not experienced any significant vehicle operator recruitment or retention issues. nmlkj We do not always have a full complement of ADA paratransit vehicle operators and vehicle operator recruitment and retention is somewhat of a problem. nmlkj There is a constant shortage of ADA paratransit vehicle operators and we have experienced significant, ongoing problems with vehicle operator recruitment and retention. nmlkj Not sure. nmlkj Other/ Comments: nmlkj
Page 24 TCRP Project F-13 Survey In your opinion, how much of an adverse impact does each of the following factors have on your efforts to RECRUIT ADA paratransit vehicle operators? No Impact Little Impact Some Impact Moderate Impact Significant Impact Labor market/general shortage of workers nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Competition with other paratransit/transit services nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Pre-qualification requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Drug testing nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Background checks nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Lack of career advancement opportunities nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Vehicle type/size/design nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Job description/nature of the job nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Shift structure/hours available nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Wages offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Fringe benefits offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Union issues nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Other (describe)/ Comments:
Page 25 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Please indicate if you have used any of the approaches listed below to improve ADA paratransit vehicle operator RECRUITMENT and, if so, the level of success with each approach. If you indicated above that one or more approaches have been âUsed With Good Success,â please provide additional information on these âbest practiceâ approaches. Not Used Used with Little Success Used with Some Success Used with Good Success Signing bonuses for recruits nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Referral bonus paid to other employees nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Paid training nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Targeted advertising nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Advertising in non-traditional ways nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Use of job fairs nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased hourly wages nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved fringe benefits offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Extended shifts to increase total take home pay nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Provide performance/recognition awards/payments nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased career advancement opportunities nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj GPS or other technologies to assist with the job nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Provide uniforms nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Other (describe)/ Comments:
Page 26 TCRP Project F-13 Survey In your opinion, how much of an adverse impact does each of the following factors have on your efforts to RETAIN ADA paratransit vehicle operators? Please indicate if you have used any of the approaches listed below to improve ADA paratransit vehicle operator RETENTION and, if so, the level of success with each approach. No Impact Little Impact Some Impact Moderate Impact Significant Impact Demands of the job nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Dissatisfaction with work shifts assigned nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Lack of opportunities for advancement nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Lack of recognition and performance incentives nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Lack of support from dispatchers or supervisors nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Procedures for resolving driver issues/grievances nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Wages offered (find better paying jobs) nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Fringe benefits offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Not Used Used with Little Success Used with Some Success Used with Good Success Targeted recruitment on particular applicant skills nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Performance bonuses nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Employee recognition programs nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Team-building efforts nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased opportunities for driver feedback nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved complaint investigation/mediation nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Keeping drivers updated on policies and procedures nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved dispatch support nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj GPS or other technologies to assist with the job nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved vehicle condition and/or work environment nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Modified/improved driver work shifts nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased training opportunities for operators/drivers nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Training in personnel management for managers nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Increased hourly wages nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Improved fringe benefits offered nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Extended shifts to increase total take home pay nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Exit interviews with drivers who voluntarily leave nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj Other (describe)/ Comments:
Page 27 TCRP Project F-13 Survey If you indicated above that one or more approaches have been âUsed With Good Success,â please provide additional information on these âbest practiceâ approaches. If you have any written descriptions of programs and approaches that you feel have been particularly effective in improving ADA paratransit vehicle operator recruitment and/or retention, or any analysis that shows impacts on performance, please forward this information to the address listed at the end of this survey or let us know if we can contact you to get a copy. In your opinion, which of the following statements best describes the impact that vehicle operator recruitment and retention at other companies that do operate service directly has had on ADA paratransit service quality and performance in your area? Vehicle operator recruitment and retention issues: Impact of Recruitment and Retention Other (describe)/ Comments: I will forward information to the address listed at the end of this survey. nmlkj We have written information that may be helpful. Please contact me to get a copy. nmlkj We do not have any written information on this topic to share. nmlkj You can get a copy of the information on-line at: nmlkj have not impacted our ADA paratransit service performance. nmlkj have had a minimal adverse impact on our ADA paratransit service performance. nmlkj have had a moderate adverse impact on our ADA paratransit service performance. nmlkj have had a significant adverse impact on our ADA paratransit service. nmlkj Not sure. nmlkj
Page 28 TCRP Project F-13 Survey Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey. THANK YOU Please work with the local public transit agency to ensure that this survey also reaches companies that hire vehicle operators and directly operate ADA paratransit services. THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO COMPLETE THIS SURVEY THANK YOU Please forward any âbest practiceâ materials from your agency or other information on this topic that you think would be useful in our research to: Mr. Russell Thatcher, Senior Transportation Planner TranSystems Corp. One Cabot Road Medford, MA 02155 rhthatcher@transystems.com REMINDER: IF YOU ARE A PUBLIC TRANSIT AGENCY THAT CONTRACTS OUT FOR SOME OR ALL OF YOUR ADA PARATRANSIT SERVICE, PLEASE REMEMBER TO SEND THE SURVEY LINK TO YOUR CONTRACTORS. The survey has a separate "contractor" section that requests different information from private contractors. SURVEY IS COMPLETE Thank you
