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Bus Cleaner Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sub Bus Driver

Hammond, IN ยท On-site

$16.25 - $22.50/hr

... bus clean and orderly with daily pick up and sweeping ยท Maintain communication with parents of students by weekly phone calls. ยท Do not allow any unauthorized person(s) on the school bus. ยท ...

Bus Aide

Chesterton, IN ยท On-site

$17/hr

Use and maintain equipment and materials properly * Assist the driver in keeping the bus clean and sanitary * Assist in pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the bus, including wheelchair lifts * Be ...

Showing results 41-60

Bus Cleaner information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do bus cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus cleaner in Chicago, IL is $16.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bus cleaner?

Bus cleaners are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of buses. Their duties include sweeping, mopping, sanitizing surfaces, removing trash, and sometimes restocking supplies like hand sanitizer or paper towels. They ensure that buses are safe and pleasant for passengers and staff by following cleaning protocols and sometimes using specialized cleaning equipment. Bus cleaners may work for public transit agencies, private bus companies, or contractors, and often work during off-peak hours or overnight shifts.

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

To thrive as a Bus Cleaner, you need attention to detail, physical stamina, and knowledge of cleaning protocols, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning agents, floor scrubbers, and basic maintenance tools is typically required. Reliability, time management, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are important soft skills. These qualities help ensure safe, hygienic, and well-maintained vehicles for public use, supporting overall passenger satisfaction.

What are the typical work hours and team structure for a bus cleaner position?

Bus Cleaners often work in shifts that can include early mornings, late evenings, or overnight hours to ensure buses are cleaned and ready for service. The team structure usually consists of a supervisor and several cleaners who work together to cover all assigned vehicles efficiently. Collaboration and clear communication are important, as tasks are often divided among team members to meet tight turnaround times. Understanding and adapting to the work schedule is essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Bus Cleaner vs Bus Driver?

AspectBus CleanerBus Driver
Required CredentialsMinimal; often no formal certification neededCommercial driver's license (CDL) required
Work EnvironmentBus terminals, garages, and inside busesInside the bus, on the road, and at terminals
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, private transportation companiesPublic transit, school districts, private transport
Common Search & Comparison IntentCleaning duties, maintenance, job requirementsDriving, safety, route management

While both roles are essential in the transportation industry, a Bus Cleaner focuses on cleaning and maintaining buses, requiring minimal credentials. In contrast, a Bus Driver operates vehicles, requiring a CDL and driving skills. Both roles work within transit environments but serve different functions.

Is it hard to become a bus cleaner?

Becoming a bus cleaner generally does not require extensive training or education, but it may involve physical work and attention to cleanliness standards. Some positions may require background checks or safety certifications, and the job often involves working early mornings, evenings, or weekends. Overall, it is considered an entry-level position with minimal barriers to entry.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Bus Cleaner jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Cleaner jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Bus Cleaner job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,038 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

$16.25 - $22/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Transportation
Date Posted:
4/1/2025
Location:
SSC-Transportation
Position Title:
Sub School Bus Driver
Location Code:
To be designated
Department:
Transportation
Employee Status:
Employee
Revision Date:
Full-time/ Part time Status:
Full time
FLSA Status:
Non-exempt
Working Period:
Bargaining Unit Status:
Excluded
Date Approved by Board:
Minimum Qualifications:
Eligibility Requirements:
  • Must be 21 years of age
  • Valid Class A or B CDL with Air brakes, Passenger, and School Bus endorsements
  • Valid Indiana State School Bus Certificate IC 20-27
  • Must meet or exceed the medical requirements of the State of Indiana as stated by IC 20-27-8-1
  • Valid CDL Physical
  • Must have good communication skills
  • Must be able to follow instructions and directions
  • Must have a current CPR and First Aid certification
  • Must be physically able to complete Physical Performance Standards

General knowledge of the city and county roads; skill in the safe operation of a school bus; ability to detect malfunctioning equipment; ability to assist children using patience and understanding; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school officials, parents, school personnel, and students. Must be able to follow oral and written directions and have the ability to get along well with others.
Primary function:
Transports school bus passengers between assigned stops and schools according to specified routes and time schedules. Maintains order during trip and adheres to safety rules when loading and unloading passengers.
Responsibilities:
The minimum performance expectations include, but are not limited to, the following functions/tasks:
  • Exercises greatest care at all times in transportation of school children;
  • Takes all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, employees, equipment, and property;
  • Reports all student injuries, accidents, illnesses and discipline problems to the appropriate authority immediately or as soon as reasonably possible;
  • Instructs pupils who ride buses in rider safety annually, and practices emergency exit drills at least twice annually;
  • Keeps an updated copy of route in bus, including time bus starts in morning, time it leaves with parking lot assignments (schools, terminal)
  • Operates school bus in accordance with route schedule and designated stops;
  • Performs daily pre-trip safety inspection of vehicle as per School bus driver handbook, and reports damage and/or malfunction to garage promptly;
  • Performs daily post-trip inspection of the entire interior and exterior of the bus, clean, sweep, fill fuel tank, and check oil;
  • Reports on number of pupils transported and miles traveled to the Transportation Director
  • Report all accidents, delays, and driver absences to the Transportation office immediately.
  • Contact parents immediately, or as soon as reasonably possible, in the event of a student injury, serious illness, or other matter pertaining to the general welfare of the student;
  • Suggest safe and efficient routes, stops, and schedules to the Transportation Director
  • Attend in-service training to improve skills, attitudes, and knowledge of school bus driving and pupil control;
  • Attend a minimum of 4 out of 8 mandatory safety meetings
  • Models non-discriminatory practices in all activities;
  • Complies with and supports Transportation and Administration regulations and policies;

ADA Physical Demands:
The physical demands here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the position successfully.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The position requires frequent changes in sitting, standing and walking throughout the day.
The employee must frequently speak and hear as well as utilize the telephone and computer.