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Bus Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

LifeWise Academy

Volunteer Vehicle Driver

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Perform regular inspections of the bus * Refuel the vehicle as needed * Create and maintain a safe environment for children * Enforce safety rules for students * Assist students with entering or ...

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Bus Assistant information

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How much do bus assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus assistant in Waterloo, IA is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $17.55 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 Waterloo, IA?

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

What are popular job titles related to Bus Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA?

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

What job categories do people searching Bus Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

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

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

Bus Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Assistant job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,890 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Volunteer Vehicle Driver

LifeWise Academy

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Overview
As a LifeWise vehicle driver, you will provide safe and reliable transportation for public school students to and from the LifeWise site. Our ideal candidate is responsible and punctual and has a clean driving record. If you're interested in this position, apply on the program's webpage.
Qualifications and Experience
  • A mature personal Christian faith in agreement with the "What We Believe" section of the LifeWise Academy Statement of Faith
  • Active participation in and commitment to a local church whose doctrine aligns with the "What We Believe" section of the LifeWise Academy Statement of Faith
  • Regular driver's license (a copy may be kept on file by the LifeWise program)
    • The driver is required to have been continuously licensed for the past three years
  • Appropriate special licenses
    • Vehicles seating more than 15 passengers: Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with endorsement for driving a passenger vehicle (P)
    • 15 passenger van: no special license required
  • Age requirement: 21-80 years of age
    • Van Drivers over the age of 75: Submit an annual Physician's Statement via support ticket
    • CDL Licensed Drivers over the age of 75: Submit a copy of their CDL license and (P) Passenger Endorsement annually via support ticket
    • Any driver above the age of 75 is required to submit additional documentation as follows:
  • Clean driving record with no at-fault accidents or traffic citations within the last five years. If the candidate does have at-fault accidents or traffic citations, contact your Program Coach who will then reach out to the HR Team to determine the candidate's employment eligibility.
  • Undergo and pass a background check through LifeWise Academy
  • Undergo and pass a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR)
  • All drivers with known medical conditions are required to obtain a yearly underwriter-approved Physician's Statement (refer to this Physician's Statement from Brotherhood Mutual).
  • Complete drug and/or alcohol testing as required. Drug testing will be conducted for pre-employment, annual random tests and following traffic accidents.

Job Responsibilities Overview
  • Transport children and LifeWise volunteers to and from the LifeWise site
  • Obey traffic laws
  • Maintain the cleanliness and mechanical safety of the bus
  • Perform regular inspections of the bus
  • Refuel the vehicle as needed
  • Create and maintain a safe environment for children
    • Enforce safety rules for students
    • Assist students with entering or exiting the vehicle as needed
    • Demonstrate a calm and caring demeanor
    • Be aware of which students need help or are misbehaving
  • Volunteer in the LifeWise classroom if agreed upon with the Director

LifeWise Academy's hiring practices and EEO Statement are fully in compliance with both federal and state law. Federal law creates an exception to the "religion" section of employment discrimination laws for religious organizations and permits them to give employment preference to members of their own religion. LifeWise Academy is in that category.
Classification: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Employment Type: Volunteer
Grid Level: 1a

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