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Bus Assistant Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Gilbert

Preschool Bus Associate- Part Time

Gilbert, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Supervise and monitor preschool students while riding the school bus. * Assist students with safely entering and exiting the bus as needed. * Help students remain safely seated and follow bus ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ames, IA · On-site

$23 - $26/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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ames, IA · On-site

$23 - $26/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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$23 - $29/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 ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Ames, IA · On-site

$23 - $26/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 ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$23 - $29/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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ames, IA · On-site

$23 - $26/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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$23 - $29/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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$23 - $29/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 ...

LifeWise Academy

Volunteer CDL Bus Driver

Johnston, IA · On-site

Overview As a LifeWise CDL bus driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public ... Enforce safety rules for students * Assist students with entering or exiting the vehicle as needed

Baker Group

Sr. Project Manager - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

Coach, mentor, and train project managers, project engineers and system engineers in both Automation and other BUs * Assist with the development of marketing materials and performance at partner ...

Baker Group

Sr. Project Manager - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$90K - $118K/yr

Coach, mentor, and train project managers, project engineers and system engineers in both Automation and other BUs * Assist with the development of marketing materials and performance at partner ...

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Bus Assistant information

See Ames, IA salary details

$8

$16

$29

How much do bus assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus assistant in Ames, IA is $16.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $17.40 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 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 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 ensure the bus environment remains safe and comfortable. Good communication skills and attention to safety protocols are essential for this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a bus assistant?

To become a bus assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, good communication skills, and the ability to work with the public. Some employers may require a valid driver's license or background checks, and training is often provided on the job. Customer service skills and patience are important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bus jobs in Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Bus jobs in Ames, IA are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Bus Assistant jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Bus Assistant job openings:

Bus Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Assistant job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,612 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Preschool Bus Associate- Part Time

Gilbert

Gilbert, IA • On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Preschool Bus Associate
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Status: Hourly. Anticipated Hours: Tues, Thurs Fri 11:00-12:15 and Weds 10:30-12:15. Additional hours may be available as a substitute associate. 
Reports to: Building Principal and/or Transportation Director


POSITION PURPOSE

The Preschool Bus Associate provides supervision and support to preschool students while riding the school bus. The associate helps ensure students have a safe, positive, and comfortable experience while traveling to and from school.

PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITIES

  • Supervise and monitor preschool students while riding the school bus.
  • Assist students with safely entering and exiting the bus as needed.
  • Help students remain safely seated and follow bus expectations and routines.
  • Provide a calm, friendly, and supportive presence for students during transportation.
  • Assist with student needs as appropriate and within the scope of the position.
  • Communicate any student concerns or transportation-related issues to the appropriate school staff.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding students and families.
  • Follow school district policies, transportation procedures, and emergency protocols.
  • Maintain a positive and professional relationship with students, families, bus drivers, and school staff.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Ability to work positively and patiently with young children.
  • Good verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to follow directions and established safety procedures.
  • Dependable, responsible, and punctual.
  • Ability to remain calm and attentive while supervising students.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND VISUAL EFFORT

Frequent sitting, standing, walking, reaching, and assisting young children. Ability to maintain attention to students and respond appropriately to safety concerns. Mobility required to assist students as needed.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is primarily performed on a school bus while transporting preschool students. The position involves regular exposure to noise and movement associated with bus transportation. Work hours will generally be approximately one hour per day, based on the district's preschool transportation schedule.

The Gilbert Community School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the Gilbert Community School District not to illegally discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity, and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination.

The statements contained herein describe the scope of the responsibility and essential functions of this position, but should not be considered to be an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time unless restricted by a negotiated contract.



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