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Bus Driver Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Monitor/Aide

Merced, CA · On-site

$17/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 ...

New

Monitor/Aide

Merced, CA · On-site

$17/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 ...

New

Bonus rate increase available for each ASE School Bus Series test passed and maintained (up to $2 ... Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into ...

Lead Mechanic

Newman, CA · On-site

$34.50 - $37/hr

Bonus rate increase available for each ASE School Bus Series test passed and maintained (up to $2 ... Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into ...

Lead Mechanic

Newman, CA · On-site

$34.50 - $37/hr

Supervise shop technicians, conduct daily huddles, training, performance evaluations, and assist ... From our school bus drivers and location managers to routers, dispatchers and fleet technician ...

Bus Driver Assistant information

See Merced, CA salary details

$9

$17

$31

How much do bus driver assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver assistant in Merced, CA is $17.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.80 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 Merced, CA? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Merced, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver Assistant jobs in Merced, CA? For Bus Driver Assistant jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Driver Assistant jobs in Merced, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Driver Assistant jobs in Merced, CA are:
What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Bus Driver Assistant jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Bus Driver Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Bus Driver Assistant job openings in Merced, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,367 per year, or $18 per hour.
Substitute Bus Driver

$23.40/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

About the Employer
Welcome to the Waterford Unified School District!
Thank you for your interest in joining the Waterford USD family. We are proud of the fact that we have talented staff, excellent growth opportunities, outstanding support, and an invigorating mission. The primary function of Waterford USD is to service and support our schools along with numerous other agencies, as we strive for excellence for our preschool and school-aged children.
Waterford USD serves others by building capacity in our employees, being responsive to the needs of our customers and modeling integrity and respect in our actions and communications.
Vision Statement:
Committed to excellence, achievement, and success
Mission Statement:
Waterford USD, in partnership and collaboration with families and the community, is committed to developing:
* A safe, healthy and supportive environment
* Academic excellence and achievement for all students
* Well-rounded successful citizens with personal integrity
* Self-directed and collaborative learners who are college and career ready
* Diverse learning opportunities
* Critical thinking and creative expression
Job Summary
Sub Bus Driver for games, field trips and routes as needed. Great opportunity for retired drivers or someone who wants a flexible schedule.
Job Description / Essential Elements:
DEFINITION
Under general supervision, to operate a school bus or transportation vehicle over designated routes within an established time schedule; to transport students to and from school and on special event trips; to perform daily inspections of a bus or transportation equipment; and to do other related work as required.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
1. Drive a school bus or transportation vehicle over assigned routes in accordance with an established time schedule.
2. Assist in evaluating transportation routes, and report unsafe road conditions.
3. Transport children to and from school.
4. Load and unload students safely at designated stops and on study trips.
5. Stop traffic and escort children across streets.
6. Plan, organize and implement students' safety and pupil transportation vehicle evacuation drills.
7. Maintain bus or transportation vehicle in a clean and orderly condition, and inspect and reports any mechanical defects or malfunctions.
8. Adhere to policies and procedures in maintaining appropriate student behavior.
9. Respond to public contacts concerning transportation problems and concerns.
10. Complete the daily transportation activity record, including number of students transported, mileage, type of trip, and standby time.
11. Sweep, clean and refuel buses.
12. May transport children with special learning needs and physical handicaps.
13. Administer first aid as required, and contacts appropriate administrators in case of serious injury or illness.
14. Perform other related duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Safe driving practices and techniques;
Basic first aid procedures and methods;
Safety and maintenance requirements of bus and other pupil transportation equipment;
Provisions of the California Motor Vehicle Code and Title 13 applicable to the operation of vehicles in the transportation of school children.
Ability to:
Drive a school bus and other transportation equipment safely and efficiently;
Maintain appropriate student behavior on a school bus or other transportation equipment;
Perform appropriately in situations requiring tact and diplomacy in dealing with the public, parents, students and staff;
Understand and carry out oral and written directions;
Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical requirements indicated below are examples of the physical aspects that this position classification must perform in carrying out essential job functions.
1. Persons performing service in this position classification will exert 30 to 50 pounds of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
2. Must have an adequate range of motion in the upper extremities.
3. This type of work involves operating a student transportation vehicle, sitting during much of the assignment, but will involve walking or standing for brief periods.
4. Perceiving the nature of sound, near and far vision, depth perception, providing oral information, the manual dexterity to operate business related equipment, and handle and work with various materials and objects are important aspects of this job.
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a person with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job.
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and skill is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and skill would be:
Experience:
One year of experience in the transportation of school children, or the completion of a school bus driver training program.
Education:
Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.
License and Certificate Requirement
Possession of a valid Class II, California Motor Vehicle Operator's License;
Possession of a School Bus Driver's Certificate issued by the California Highway Patrol, including passage of a first aid examination.
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Certificate Copy (Medical certificate)
  • DMV Printout (H-6)
  • Driver's License Copy (Must have a CA School Bus Driver Certificate)
  • Proof of HS Graduation
  • Resume
  • TB Screening Result