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Bus Driver Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

... promptly * Assist students with boarding and exiting the bus in a safe manner * Engage with ... * CDL permit with passenger endorsement and Air Brake * Clean driving record with no recent ...

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

... promptly * Assist students with boarding and exiting the bus in a safe manner * Engage with ... * CDL permit with passenger endorsement and Air Brake * Clean driving record with no recent ...

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

... promptly * Assist students with boarding and exiting the bus in a safe manner * Engage with ... * CDL permit with passenger endorsement and Air Brake * Clean driving record with no recent ...

Bus Driver

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$18.66 - $25.58/hr

Verify residency of passengers. * Assist passengers with packages, walkers and wheelchairs ... Pass "Bus Driver Physical Examination" prior to start of employment and annually thereafter.

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

As the School Bus Driver, you will be responsible for the safe operation of the school bus while ... promptly * Assist students with boarding and exiting the bus in a safe manner * Engage with ...

Bus Driver

Los Olivos, CA · On-site

$21.84 - $26.54/hr

... buses. 9. Assist students on and off the bus as necessary to ensure their safety. 10. Report ... Driver's law and be insurable by the District's liability insurance carrier; must pass pre ...

Bus Driver

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Keep the inside of the bus clean and orderly * Assist with the fueling of spare buses * Fuel bus ... Valid and current Commercial California Drivers License with passenger, air brakes and school bus ...

Bus Driver

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$25.85 - $31.78/hr

BUS DRIVER Under the direct supervision of the Transportation Supervisor, to do cleaning, fueling ... May assist or lift students both physically and mechanically in boarding and/or departing buses or ...

Bus Driver

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$23.56 - $28.65/hr

Minimum Sub Bus Driver Cadet Requirements * Valid driver's license (Class C or higher) * Ability to ... D., Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services Compliance Officer, Section 504 Coordinator, ADA ...

$15.40 - $19.28/hr

... the Loyola team as a Bus Driver and become Loyola Strong! Position Summary Provide bus ... Courteously assist colleagues, visitors, patients, students, and faculty by answering any questions ...

New

$15.40 - $19.28/hr

... the Loyola team as a Bus Driver and become Loyola Strong! Position Summary Provide bus ... Courteously assist colleagues, visitors, patients, students, and faculty by answering any questions ...

New

Bus Driver

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$23.56 - $28.65/hr

Minimum Sub Bus Driver Cadet Requirements * Valid driver's license (Class C or higher) * Ability to ... D., Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services Compliance Officer, Section 504 Coordinator, ADA ...

Bus Driver

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

As requested by the customer, the Bus Driver will assist with safety restraints. * Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents. * Complies with all ...

Bus Driver

Weed, CA · On-site

$38.53/hr

... the Bus Driver is a skilled professional responsible for safely and efficiently transporting ... Greet passengers in a friendly and professional manner. * Assist all passengers with boarding and ...

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Bus Driver Assistant information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$29

How much do bus driver assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver assistant in California is $16.79, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bus Driver Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bus Driver Assistant, you need a basic understanding of safety procedures, strong observational skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with communication devices, student management protocols, and emergency equipment is typically required. Patience, clear communication, and a calm demeanor are vital soft skills for supporting students and assisting the driver. These skills and qualities are important to ensure student safety, smooth transportation operations, and effective response to emergencies.

How much do bus driver assistants make?

Bus driver assistants typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work part-time or full-time schedules and may need a valid driver's license and background check to qualify.

What are Bus Driver Assistants?

Bus Driver Assistants, also known as bus monitors or aides, are individuals who support the bus driver in ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers, especially children, during school bus routes or special transportation services. Their duties often include helping passengers board and exit the bus, maintaining order, assisting students with special needs, and communicating with drivers and school staff about any concerns. They play a vital role in creating a secure and positive transportation environment.

What is the difference between Bus Driver Assistant vs Bus Driver?

AspectBus Driver AssistantBus Driver
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some regions may require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or permitHigh school diploma or equivalent; CDL with passenger endorsement often required
Work EnvironmentAssist bus drivers on routes, often in school or transit settingsOperate buses, transport passengers safely on scheduled routes
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, transit agencies, private transportation companiesPublic transit agencies, school districts, private transportation providers

The main difference between a Bus Driver Assistant and a Bus Driver is that the assistant supports the driver by helping with passenger management and safety, while the bus driver is responsible for operating the vehicle and navigating routes. Both roles often require similar certifications, but the bus driver holds the primary responsibility for driving and safety.

What is the role of a bus assistant?

A bus assistant supports the bus driver by helping with passenger safety, managing boarding and alighting, and ensuring passengers follow safety rules. They may also assist with fare collection and provide customer service. The role often requires good communication skills and knowledge of safety procedures.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

Disqualifications for a bus driver assistant typically include having a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and passing background checks and drug tests. Additionally, a history of serious traffic violations, criminal offenses, or a medical condition that impairs driving ability can disqualify candidates from the role.

What are some common challenges a Bus Driver Assistant might face during their daily routes?

Bus Driver Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing student behavior, ensuring passenger safety during entry and exit, and communicating effectively with both the driver and students. They must remain calm and attentive, especially during busy or noisy routes, and be prepared to handle emergencies or unexpected situations. Building rapport with students while enforcing bus rules is key to maintaining a safe and positive environment.

How much do bus aides make?

Bus aides in New Jersey typically earn an average hourly wage of around $14 to $17, depending on experience and school district. They often work part-time hours, assisting students with transportation and safety, and may require certification or background checks. Salaries can vary based on district policies and union agreements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in California? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver Assistant jobs in California? For Bus Driver Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Driver Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Driver Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Bus Driver Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Bus Driver Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Bus Driver Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,921 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

$28.59 - $34.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

About the Employer
Imagination - Creativity - Innovation
Steeped in a rich tradition of excellence, Dry Creek Joint Elementary School District (DCJESD) has been serving students and families for over 140-years. What makes our District special is the partnership between families, community, and educators - each committed to preparing students to become active and responsible citizens in a diverse society by engaging students in a challenging curriculum that provides a solid foundation of academic skills in a safe learning environment.
Dry Creek's award-winning schools provide dynamic and innovative programs in grades TK-8 to meet the individual and diverse needs of students. Our dedicated staff strives to build a community of learners where all students are challenged to meet their full potential socially, emotionally, and academically.
We invite you to come learn with us.
Job Description / Essential Elements:
BASIC FUNCTION:
Perform the duties of a bus driver; assist with organizing and conducting behind-the-wheel training sessions for original and renewal drivers; assist with conducting required school bus safety and bus evacuation drills for students; schedule and dispatch school bus routes and drivers; schedule and dispatch extra trip assignments as necessary; assist with route development and related work as required.
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES:
  • Under direction of Supervisor of Transportation, safely drives a school bus over designated routes according to daily time schedules;
  • Starts and warms up bus before beginning daily route;
  • Maintains good order among students on buses;
  • Follows District Policy regarding student discipline and when in contact with parents and other citizens;
  • Picks up and drops off students;
  • Escorts students across streets or roadways, stopping traffic as necessary;
    • Transports students and teachers on field trips to various locations, on occasion choosing the best route, departing and arriving as scheduled;
    • Maintains record of mileage driven;
    • Recommends route/stop changes to Supervisor of Transportation;
    • Assists in scheduling an efficient and most effective routing system;
    • Schedules and assigns daily bus routes and drivers; schedules and assigns extra trips;
    • Attends scheduled safety meetings and safety programs;
    • Schedules and conducts effective school bus safety and bus evacuation programs for students;
    • Reports incidents that affect the safety of students to Supervisor of Transportation;
    • Answers the phone, dealing with student, route and driver information and issues;
    • Deals with emergencies as necessary following proper procedures;
    • Instructs bus drivers in the proper operation of school transportation vehicles;
    • Qualifies drivers on all district busses;
    • Plan, coordinate, organize and conduct behind-the-wheel bus driver training programs;
    • Reports to management regarding driver knowledge and skills in the efficient, safe, and legal aspects of school bus operation;
    • Using a prescribed check list inspects vehicles to maintain safe operating condition;
    • Advises on repairs needed;
    • May be given part-time assignment in checking fuel status on all buses and refueling as necessary;
    • Cleans windshield, headlamps, tail and turn lamps, and mirrors daily; sweeps and cleans bus daily;
    • Washes exterior of buses;
      • Cleans complete interior of bus, lifts and cleans under seats, dusts and washes seat backs, interior walls, windows, and floors annually;
      • Assists the Supervisor of Transportation with new and prospective employee activities (e.g. coordinates orientation etc.) for the purpose of assimilating new bus drivers into the organization;
      • Assists other personnel as may be required for the purpose of supporting them in the completion of their work activities;
      • Performs other duties similar to the above in scope and function as required.

LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Air Brake Endorsement
- Passenger Endorsement
- First Aid Certificate
- Department of Transportation DL-51 (Medical) Certificate
- All other legal requirements by law or regulation
- California Class A or B Drivers License
- California School Bus Driver Certificate
- Possession of a valid CDE Delegate Behind-the-Wheel Trainer Certificate
- Pre-employment & Random drug/alcohol testing in compliance with the Omnibus Employee Testing Act of 1991
EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE
- High School or general education degree GED
- Five (5) years of experience as a school bus driver
- Education and training necessary to maintain required certificates and licenses
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:
KNOWLEDGE OF:
- Safe driving practices;
- Methods of maintaining order in a diplomatic manner;
- Principles, methods, techniques and strategies for Behind the Wheel training of school bus drivers;
- Provisions of the California Motor Vehicle Code and the Education Code applicable to the operation of vehicles in the transportation of students and in the training of school bus drivers;
- Basic record-keeping techniques;
- Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy;
- Methods, procedures and techniques related to a large pupil transportation operation (as per Behind the Wheel Training, Vehicle Code and California Educational Code);
- Safe driving practices and methods;
- Proper lifting techniques;
- First aid and medical care and emergency evacuation procedures;
- Knowledge is required to provide instruction regarding safe driving practices and provisions of the California Motor Vehicle Code; California Highway Patrol; Education Code applicable to the operation of vehicles transporting school students; implement district policies regarding discipline of students; and to administer first aid when required.
ABILITY TO:
- Drive a school bus and other automotive equipment safely and efficiently;
- Understand and carry out directions;
- Maintain simple and routine records;
- Recognize malfunctions in equipment and take appropriate action;
- Speak, read, and write English at a level required for satisfactory job performance;
- Establish and maintain cooperative work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties;
- Plan, coordinate, organize and conduct behind-the-wheel bus driver training programs;
- Monitor and assess bus drivers' assuring a high standard of performance is maintained (as per the Behind the Wheel Training manual, Vehicle Code and California Educational Code);
- Communicate information between administrators, central dispatch and driving staff;
- Provide oral and written communication skills;
- Deals with emergencies as necessary following proper procedures;
- Instructs bus driver and applicants for the purpose of providing behind-the-wheel training and addressing school bus regulations/safety procedures;
- Participates in various activities (e.g. meetings, training, etc.) for the purpose of receiving and/or conveying information;
- Attends meetings, trainings, etc., for the purpose of maintaining skills and meeting requirements of school bus driver certificate;
- Deal appropriately and effectively with students, teachers, parents, employees and supervisors;
- Assists other personnel as may be required for the purpose of supporting them in the completion of their work activities;
- Works with a minimum of supervision in providing behind-the-wheel training to bus driver candidates and employees, addressing school bus regulations and safety procedures;
- Maintain consistent, punctual and regular attendance;
- To instruct and train new and currently employed bus drivers regarding school bus safety and student management, bus routes, bus stops, district safety hazards, application of oral and written instructions, and maintaining good working relationships with a diversity of individuals;
- To teach the safe operation of a school bus in accordance with the driving practices and provisions of the California Motor Vehicle Code; California Highway Patrol; Education Code, and Carriers Handbook (HPH 82.7) applicable to the operation of vehicles transporting school students and maintain order among students on a school bus.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
- Sit for extended periods of time
- Bend at the waist, kneel or crouch to inspect buses
- Climb steps
- Operate a computer keyboard
- Appropriately handle stressful conditions
- Use proper lifting methods, requires lifting 50-lbs. maximum or carrying any object weighing up to 25 lbs
- Requires moderate physical effort and exertion associated with the ability to lift, carry, push, pull, or climb
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Letter of Introduction (Addressed to: Desyrae Stevenson, Director of Human Resources)

Comments and Other Information
Successful candidate will be required to pass a Pre-Placement exam (including drug/alcohol testing) prior to employment.
The district responds to all applicants either by email or phone.
The Dry Creek JESD does not discriminate on the basis of the person's actual or perceived race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sex or sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law, ordinance or regulation, in its educational program(s) or employment.