With more than 5,000 students to transport each morning and afternoon, the Chilton County School System’s Transportation Department has its hands full—and could use some help.

Transportation Supervisor Jason Griffin said the department is making a push to add substitute drivers.

“We are in dire need,” Griffin said.

The department covers about 100 routes. There are usually about 25 substitutes on the roster but more are needed to help cover routes when full-time drivers are off.

Fridays, for example, can be difficult days to cover routes because it is a popular day for full-time drivers to take off, but many substitutes might also have plans on a Friday that prevents them from driving.

In instances where no substitute can be found, mechanics some times have to fill in—an undesirable situation since they get pulled away from the maintenance shop.

Griffin said the department does not have any full-time positions available, though part-time work can lead to a full-time position.

Campaigns to find substitute drivers are usually implemented in January and then over the summer before school starts back.

Signs have been posted at each county school, recruiting efforts are underway with teachers, there are plans for media advertising and Griffin is using his personal Facebook page to spread the word.

Morning routes usually require work from about 6:30-7:30 a.m., while afternoon routes are from about 2:45-3:45 p.m.

A substitute can earn $50 per day if he or she runs two routes (totaling 2-2:30 of work).

Anyone interested should call the transportation department at (205) 280-2950 for more information about requirements.