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

Maintenance Manager

Merced, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

... this fixed route bus operation. The Maintenance Manager will ensure that all contractual ... Must have a CDL class B with passenger and airbrake endorsement. Starting salary range: $85,000 ...

Diesel Mechanic

Merced, CA · On-site

$34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Excellent benefits package including medical ... Complete work orders accurately. * Assist with mobile emergency repair services when needed. Diesel ...

Diesel Mechanic

Merced, CA · On-site

$34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing. * Excellent benefits package including medical ... Complete work orders accurately. * Assist with mobile emergency repair services when needed. Diesel ...

School transportation needed near

Merced, CA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record. Ability to follow transportation ... Maintain a safe and orderly environment. Assist with any special needs or concerns. Must adhere to ...

Diesel Mechanic

Merced, CA · On-site

$34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Complete work orders accurately. * Assist with mobile emergency repair services when needed. Diesel ... From our school bus drivers and location managers to routers, dispatchers and fleet technician ...

Lead Mechanic

Newman, CA · On-site

$34.50 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Lead Mechanic

Newman, CA · On-site

$34.50 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Bus Driver Assistant information

See Merced, CA salary details

$9

$17

$31

How much do bus driver assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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?

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.

What qualifications do you need to be a bus driver assistant?

To become a bus driver assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and good communication skills. Some positions may require background checks and training on safety procedures and customer service. Additional certifications, such as first aid, can be beneficial but are not always mandatory.

How much do bus driver assistants make?

Bus driver assistants in New Jersey typically earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $20, depending on experience and the employer. Salaries can vary based on school district, certification, and whether the position is full-time or part-time.

What is a bus driver assistant?

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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,367 per year, or $18 per hour.

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

BUS DRIVER
GENERAL SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Transportation Supervisor and/or Director of Maintenance Operations and Transportation operates a school bus on designated routes to transport students/passengers to and from school sites and on occasional study trips or athletic events. Driver is responsible for ensuring the safety of all passengers while operating the assigned bus and for ensuring that the assigned bus is in a safe operating condition at all times. The driver is responsible for seeing that the bus is maintained in a clean and orderly condition and performs other duties directly related to this job description.
The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Drives a school bus safely on predetermined routes in accordance with time schedules transporting students to and from schools and on occasional educational or otherwise authorized trips.
Conducts established safety and operational inspection of assigned bus daily.
Maintains order and proper discipline of students/passengers; resolves disputes; documents and reports severe disciplinary cases.
Reports any needed mechanical repairs to assigned bus; cleans interior of bus and washes windshield and other windows; follows established safety procedures.
Operates a two-way radio to maintain communication to and from Dispatcher's office.
Maintains a variety of records and reports, including but not limited to mileage, routing, maintenance, time schedules and time cards.
Notifies Dispatcher's office of delays or changes that occur in scheduled route.
May assist with other routes when breakdown or other unusual circumstances occur.
Administers First Aid in emergencies.
May drive a District passenger vehicle occasionally to transport students.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
Ability to see and read, with or without vision aids; ability to hear and understand speech at normal levels; ability to communicate so others will clearly understand normal conversation.
Ability to convey detailed spoken instructions accurately, loudly or quickly.
Knowledge of safe driving practices.
Knowledge of provisions of the California Vehicle Code, Administrative Code, and Education Code applicable to the operation of the vehicles in transporting students. CHP 82.7 - Standard Practices.
Skill in reading and interpreting road and street maps.
Ability to establish and maintain proper conduct and safety of passengers on a school bus.
Ability to be comfortable with students of multiple ethnicity's, cultural values, behavioral and physical handicaps.
Ability to understand and follow both oral and written instructions.
Ability to read and write English at a level sufficient to successfully perform required duties.
Skill in operating a two-way radio, knowledge of radio codes and proper usage.
Ability to exercise good judgment and extreme caution while operating a school bus and to remain calm in emergency situations.
Ability to meet the physical requirements necessary to safely and effectively perform required duties.
Note: in addition to the above, drivers assigned to the handicapped bus require the following: physical stamina and stature to load, unload and secure wheelchair students.
Ability to:
Lift/carry 60 pounds occasionally (less than 33% of the time or 1-100 times per day);
Lift/carry 30 pounds frequently (34-66% of the time or 100-500 times per day);
Lift/carry 10 pounds constantly (67-100% of the time or over 500 times per day);
Push a maximum force of 29 pounds on objects;
Pull a maximum force of 150 pounds on objects.
Willingness to endure exposure to inclement weather.
Skill to operate electrical hydraulic lifts on handicapped busses.
Knowledge of proper safety requirements of individual wheelchairs.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Must have the physical skills/abilities/faculties to allow the full operation of any type and size of school bus that may be operated for the transportation of pupils on scheduled or unscheduled routes and study trips.
Light to moderate physical effort for extended periods of time; frequent sitting or standing.
Moderate to high stress level.
Primarily school bus/vehicle, transportation office environment.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Work environment indoors and outdoors.
Temperature - usually normal climate, occasional adverse weather and conditions.
Chemical exposure - occasional: gasoline, oil, solvents, etc.
CONTACTS
Daily contact with students, parents, transportation department and District staff.
Occasional contact with community members and outside agency personnel.
OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATES/LICENSES
A valid Class "A" or Class "B" license with a "P" endorsement, California driver's license. A California special driver's certificate. Valid medical certificate.
First Aid and CPR certification. CPR certification is recommended, but not required.
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Education equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.
Dexterity and physical condition to maintain a rigorous work schedule and meet standards of physical and mental health. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Note: Minimum qualifications may be waived on a case-by-case basis by the Superintendent or designee in his/her sole and absolute discretion.
Board Approved: July 22, 2003
Revised: June 15, 2006
Requirements / Qualifications

  • Certification
  • CPR/First Aid Certification
  • DMV Printout
  • Driver's License Copy
  • Letter of Introduction
  • Letter(s) of Recommendation (Three recent letters; within the last two years)
  • Proof of HS Graduation
  • Resume
  • TB Screening Result

Comments and Other Information
Successful candidates must pass pre-employment physical
Fingerprint clearance upon hire with DPOLUSD
Dos Palos Oro Loma Joint Unified School District prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying in educational programs, activities, or employment on the basis of actual or perceived ancestry, age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, citizenship or immigration status, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy actual or potential parental, family, or marital status, military status or association with a person or a group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. Dos Palos Oro Loma Joint Unified School District requires that school personnel take immediate steps to intervene when safe to do so when he or she witnesses an act of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying.
Questions or complaints of alleged discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying, equity or Title IX equity and compliance concerns should be directed to:
David Childers
(209) 392-0200
2041 Almond Street
Dos Palos, CA 93620
dchilders@dpol.net
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the hiring process, Dos Palos-Oro Loma JUSD will provide you with one upon notice.