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Bus Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bus Monitor

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$16.45/hr

To assist in the care, safety and support of students to and from school on an assigned transportation route while traveling in a school bus in an assigned vehicle. * Responsible for the safe and ...

Route Assistant

Elgin, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.25/hr

Transportation/Bus Assistant Date Posted: 6/3/2026 Location: Transportation Date Available: ASAP Closing Date: Until Filled Position / Title: Route Assistant Bargaining Unit: DUTU Department/Location:

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 ...

School Bus Monitor

Skokie, IL · On-site

$17.50/hr

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 ...

School Bus Monitor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

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 ...

School Bus Monitor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Bus Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$30

How much do bus assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus assistant in Chicago, IL is $17.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $18.32 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Bus jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Bus Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Bus Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Bus Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Bus Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,451 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

School Bus Driver- Earn Up To $29 Per Hour - Training Provided- Chicago, IL

AM Bus Company

Evanston, IL

$29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description


AM Bus Company Is Hiring School Bus Drivers in the Chicago, IL area!

No Experience Required! We Provide Training

Earn $24-$29 Per Hour - Full Benefits

Applicants With CDL & Passenger & School Bus Endorsements Preferred!!

Are you passionate about working with children and seeking an exciting opportunity as a school bus driver? Look no further! Join the AM Bus Company, where we pride ourselves on being a family-owned and operated business dedicated to excellence in student  transportation services.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, we welcome you to join our team. Don't have a CDL yet? No worries! We offer comprehensive CDL training for individuals interested in embarking on a fulfilling career in school bus driving. Join us in ensuring the safety and comfort of students on their journey to and from school each day.

What We Offer:

  • Earn $24-$29 Per Hour
  • Full Benefits- Health, Dental, Vision, & Life Insurance
  • 401(k) + Company Match
  • Referral Bonus
  • Quarterly Bonuses
  • Quarterly Employee Appreciation Events
  • Weekends Off
  • Paid Holidays


Responsibilities:

  •  Transport children and other passengers to and from destination
  • Obey all traffic laws to ensure students arrive to their destination safely
  • Maintain a clean and mechanically sound bus at all times
  • Ensure the safety of all students when entering and leaving the bus
  • Assist students with getting on and off the bus as needed
  • Engage with students as they enter and leave the bus
  • Ability to carry out assigned route on time
  • Student check after every time bus is believed to be empty or leaving the bus


Other responsibilities Include:

  • ​Daily Pre-Trip and Post Trip inspections checking vehicle safety such as tires, brakes, turn signals and safety equipment
  •  Being attentive to traffic and weather conditions and ensuring passenger safety
  •  Following the planned route and schedule for departure times and stops
  • Mandatory monthly safety meetings


Requirements:

  • Must be 23 years of age or older
  • Must have a current valid driver's license for a minimum of 3 years with no breaks
  • Clean driving record with no at-fault accidents or traffic citations within the last 3 years
  • Must be able and willing to pass a DOT physical 
  • Must be able and willing to go through a pre-employment background check
  • Must be able to understand and communicate in the english language


All Drivers are subject to Annual DOT Physicals and Random Drug & Alcohol Testing


APPLY NOW!!!