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Bus Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Carlisle, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

Student Support Services/Bus Driver Date Posted: 2/9/2024 Location: Carlisle Community School ... Able to assist in the emergency evacuation of students by extraction through emergency windows ...

You will assist the bus driver in providing an excellent and safe journey for students to and from school. No experience as a School Bus Monitor is required! We will guide you with our industry ...

Bus Driver

Carlisle, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

JOB TITLE Bus Driver REPORTS TO Transportation Director QUALIFICATIONS * High School diploma or ... Able to assist in the emergency evacuation of students by extraction through emergency windows ...

Bending and stooping as needed to assist with various tasks * Ascending and descending stairs of school bus * Fastening children securely in seats * Performing other related tasks as required Beacon ...

Bending and stooping as needed to assist with various tasks * Ascending and descending stairs of school bus * Fastening children securely in seats * Performing other related tasks as required Beacon ...

Your day as a School Bus Driver will include: · Safely transport students to and from school and activities. · Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility ...

Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids. * Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions. * Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes ...

Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids. * Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions. * Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes ...

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Your day as a School Bus Driver will include: · Safely transport students to and from school and activities. · Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility ...

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Your day as a School Bus Driver will include: • Safely transport students to and from school and activities. • Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and ...

Showing results 41-60

Bus Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$27

How much do bus assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus assistant in Iowa is $15.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bus assistant?

Bus assistants are professionals who help ensure the safety and well-being of passengers, especially children, on school or public buses. They assist with boarding and exiting, secure passengers with seat belts if needed, and help manage behavior during the ride. Bus assistants also communicate with the driver and help students with special needs or mobility challenges, making sure everyone has a safe and comfortable journey.

What are the duties of a bus assistant?

A bus assistant supports the driver by helping passengers, ensuring safety, and managing boarding and alighting. They may also assist with fare collection, provide customer service, and help maintain a clean and safe environment on the bus. Good communication skills and attention to safety protocols are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bus assistant?

To thrive as a Bus Assistant, you need a basic education, an understanding of safety protocols, and often a background check or child care training. Familiarity with two-way radios and student tracking systems is commonly required. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring student safety, maintaining order, and providing a supportive environment during transit.

What are some common challenges faced by bus assistants during student transportation, and how are they typically addressed?

Bus Assistants often face challenges such as managing student behavior, ensuring the safety of all passengers during transit, and assisting students with special needs. To address these, Bus Assistants receive training in behavioral management techniques, first aid, and effective communication. They work closely with bus drivers and school staff to create a safe and positive environment, and regular meetings or debriefs may be held to discuss any recurring issues and share best practices.

What is the difference between Bus Assistant vs Bus Driver?

AspectBus AssistantBus Driver
Required CredentialsBasic training, sometimes a valid driver’s licenseCommercial driver’s license (CDL) or equivalent required
Work EnvironmentAssist passengers, ensure safety, support driverOperate the bus, navigate routes, ensure passenger safety
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, transportation companies, special needs servicesPublic transit agencies, private transportation companies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles supporting bus operationsPrimary driver role with passenger assistance

The main difference between a Bus Assistant and a Bus Driver is that the Bus Assistant primarily supports passenger safety and comfort without operating the vehicle, while the Bus Driver is responsible for driving the bus and navigating routes. Both roles work closely in the transportation industry, but the Bus Driver requires a valid driver’s license and more extensive driving credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bus jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Bus jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Bus Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Bus Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Bus Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Bus Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Bus Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,235 per year, or $16 per hour.

$18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Lewis Central Community School District is looking for Bus Drivers for the 2026-2027 school year. A hiring bonus is available for qualified candidates. Fully licensed and trained school bus drivers start at $18.00 per hour, with additional pay for prior bus driving/CDL experience. Training is provided for applicants who are not yet fully licensed and trained school bus drivers. Driver trainees start at $16.50 per hour during training and receive a pay increase upon successful completion.
Driver trainee applicants must have a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) before they can begin training. More information is available through the Iowa DOT here: Iowa DOT Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Please see details about the position below.
Job Title: Bus Driver
Department: Operations - Transportation
Supervisor: Transportation Director
Classification: Classified - Part-Time School-Year
FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Last Updated: June 9, 2026
Summary
Operates school buses and transportation vehicles safely and efficiently to transport students to and from school, activities, and events. Ensures compliance with all federal, state of Iowa, and district transportation regulations while maintaining a safe, orderly, and respectful environment for students.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Reports to work on a regular and reliable basis.
  • Safely operates a school bus or other district vehicle on assigned routes and for extracurricular trips in accordance with all traffic laws, State of Iowa school transportation rules, and district policies.
  • Conducts required pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the bus to ensure safe operating condition and reports mechanical concerns promptly.
  • Maintains order and discipline among students while on the bus; on routes without a bus monitor, assumes primary responsibility for student management and behavior.
  • Collaborates with assigned bus monitors (when applicable) to ensure a safe, orderly, and respectful environment for all students.
  • Communicates student behavior concerns to appropriate school staff in accordance with district procedures.
  • Follows assigned routes and schedules while adjusting as necessary for weather, road, or operational conditions.
  • Ensures student safety during loading and unloading, including proper use of stop arms, crossing procedures, and hazard lights.
  • Maintains accurate records including student counts, mileage, inspections, and incident reports as required.
  • Complies with all requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Iowa Department of Education, and Iowa Department of Transportation for school bus drivers.
  • Participates in required training, including but not limited to driver in-service, safety training, and emergency procedures.
  • Performs emergency evacuation drills as required by state guidelines.
  • Maintains cleanliness and basic upkeep of the assigned vehicle.
  • Communicates effectively with students, parents, school staff, and transportation personnel.
  • Follows the district's Drug and Alcohol Testing Program, including pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing.
  • Reports accidents, incidents, or unsafe conditions immediately and follows proper procedures.
  • May assist with transporting students with special needs and operate specialized equipment when trained.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
Education and/or Experience
A combination of relevant education and experience may be considered.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Must possess or obtain:
    • Valid Iowa Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class B or higher
    • Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements
    • Iowa School Bus Driver Authorization issued by the Iowa Department of Education
    • Valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate
    • Successful completion of state-required pre-service training
  • Must meet all state and federal background check requirements.
The district will provide paid training to assist in obtaining these necessary qualifications.
Full job description available by emailing humanresources@lewiscentral.org
Hours/Schedule:
  • The position is guaranteed 5 hours of pay per day 2.5 for each shift (a.m. & p.m.).
  • This position is expected to work all days students are in session and require transportation to and from school (approximately 177 student days).
  • Occasional transportation meetings, trainings, or requirements outside of regular hours may be necessary and will be paid unless noted otherwise.
Rate of pay:
  • The hourly rate of pay starts at $18.00 for a Bus Driver who has a valid CDL with Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsements and a school bus authorization through the Department of Education (DOE).
  • Additional compensation opportunities:
    • $0.10-$0.20 more per hour for prior driving experience (up to 5 years max)
  • The hourly rate of pay starts at $16.50 for a Bus Driver Trainee who does not have a CDL with Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsements and a school bus authorization through the Department of Education (DOE).
  • Additional compensation opportunities:
    • $0.10-$0.20 more per hour for prior driving experience (up to 5 years max)
Final starting rate will be determined by the Business Office/HR after submitting your application and current qualifications.
Benefits:
  • Since this is a part-time, school-year position, it is not eligible for health or dental benefits.
  • Life insurance benefit of $20,000 at no cost to you.
  • Enrollment in IPERS (Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System) starting on your first day:
    • District contributes 9.44% of your wages.
    • You contribute 6.29% of your wages.
Paid Leave:
  • 2 paid personal days each school year (prorated based on start date).
  • Paid sick leave based on years of service (10 days in your first year, prorated based on start date).
  • This position is not eligible for paid vacation leave.
Paid Holidays:
  • Labor Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day
  • New Year's Day
  • Memorial Day