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Bus Driver Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids ... School Bus Driver Jobs are Perfect For: * Retirees looking for supplemental income * Stay-at-home ...

School Bus Driver

Rochester, MN · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids ... School Bus Driver Jobs are Perfect For: * Retirees looking for supplemental income * Stay-at-home ...

Bus Paraprofessional

Byron, MN · On-site

$19 - $20.75/hr

Communicate student concerns or incidents to the bus driver and appropriate school staff. * Assist with transitions between the bus and school. * Maintain confidentiality regarding students and their ...

Bus Paraprofessional

Byron, MN · On-site

$19 - $20.75/hr

Communicate student concerns or incidents to the bus driver and appropriate school staff. * Assist with transitions between the bus and school. * Maintain confidentiality regarding students and their ...

Education & Experience: - Drivers must successfully complete 24 hours of employer training upon ... Standing and use of stairs to assist passengers to/from and on/off vehicle required occasionally.

Bus operator

Rochester, MN · On-site

$16/hr

Education & Experience: - Drivers must successfully complete 24 hours of employer training upon ... Standing and use of stairs to assist passengers to/from and on/off vehicle required occasionally.

Bus Driver Assistant information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$9

$17

$30

How much do bus driver assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver assistant in Rochester, MN is $17.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How much do bus driver assistants make?

Bus driver assistants in Florida typically earn around $12 to $15 per hour, depending on experience and the employer. They often work part-time or full-time schedules and may need a valid driver's license and background check to qualify.

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.

What job categories do people searching Bus Driver Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Driver Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Bus Driver Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Bus Driver Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Bus Driver Assistant job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,968 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

School Bus Driver

First Student

Rochester, MN

$27 - $30/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Transport students safely to and from school and activities, including field trips and special events.

  • Supervise student boarding and unloading, assist with seatbelts and mobility aids, and maintain order on the bus.

  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections, report mechanical issues, and ensure the bus is clean and sanitary.


First Student rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

First Student

Based on 319 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.2

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.2 out of 10

Education support services average

Based on 2,881 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at First Student

  • 89%

    89% of students say it’s good

    of students say it’s good

  • 88%

    88% say they enjoy their job

    say they enjoy their job

  • 87%

    87% of parents and care-givers say it’s good

    of parents and care-givers say it’s good

Featured by First Student, based on 319 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Now Hiring Part-Time School Bus Drivers for Rochester, MN

Hourly Rate: $27.00 up to $30.00 per hour*

Paid CDL Training: $25.00

Flexible Schedule*

Guaranteed Hours*

No Nights or Weekend

As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely back home in the afternoon. Additional hours for field trips and special event transportation may be available.

No experience is necessary to become a school bus driver! We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver.

School Bus Driver benefits:

  • Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications
  • Hourly Rate: $27.00 - $30.00 per hour
  • Training Hourly Rate: $25.00 per hour*
  • Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training provided!
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance or coverage options
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match.
  • Part-time, flexible schedule: Split shifts (AM/PM routes), weekdays only; No nights, weekends, holidays, or summers required.
  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations across the U.S. & Canada!
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.
  • Community Impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families.
  • Employee Discount Program: Discounts on various products and services.
  • Guaranteed Minimum Hours: Get paid for (7) hours per day at a minimum.
  • Child Ride-Along Program: Perfect for working parents.

Your day as a School Bus Driver will include:

  • Safely transport students to and from school and activities.
  • Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids.
  • Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes, lights, tires, emergency exits).
  • Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the bus clean and sanitary.
  • Obey all traffic laws and company safety standards.
  • Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.
  • Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

School Bus Driver Jobs are Perfect For:

  • Retirees looking for supplemental income
  • Stay-at-home parents seeking daytime work
  • Veterans transitioning into civilian roles
  • Anyone seeking a second career or a flexible job
  • People who enjoy working with children

You might be a good fit as a School Bus Driver if you:

  • Are at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid driver's license for at least 3 years
  • Are looking for a part-time schedule and summers off
  • Enjoy working with students

Note: This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.

Great School Bus Drivers often bring skills such as:

  • Valid Class B License
  • History driving with ride share companies or taxi services
  • Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate.

"Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support you on and off the job, from early wage access and loyalty rewards to employee discounts, recognition programs, growth opportunities, and appreciation events. If you're ready to be part of a team that Fosters Teamwork and makes a real difference every day, First Student is the place to be."

Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First Student! Make an impact in your community while enjoying flexible schedules, great pay, and unmatched support.

*Conditions apply; see locations for details.

Language Requirement
This role requires English proficiency. Federal, state, and local requirements, including U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, require training, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications be conducted in English.


First for a reason:

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more than 5 million students and passengers to and from their destinations each day! Our family of brands include Transco, Total Transportation, Maggies Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation; they create and implement the most advanced training and technology the transportation industry has to offer.


In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are considered safety-sensitive and are therefore subject to drug and alcohol testing, including cannabis.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. First is also committed to providing a drug-free workplace. First will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, and any other fair chance law. Philadelphia's Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance Poster is at this link or upon request https://www.phila.gov/media/20210423160847/Fair-Chance-Hiring-law-poster.pdf.


Working at First Student

Perks for frontline workers

From First Student, via Breakroom

  • Competitive pay and paid training

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and paid time off

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage options

  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match

  • Career advancement opportunities, including operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), including counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues

  • Community impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families

About First Student, in their own words

From First Student

At First Student, we are a team of 66,800 employees dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and efficient student transportation. As the leading student transportation provider in North America, we operate over 530+ locations across the U.S. and Canada. Our family of brands includes Transco, Total Transportation, Maggie’s Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation, helping create and implement the advanced training, technology, and transportation solutions our industry has to offer. Our company’s history is rooted in industry innovation, operational excellence, and a shared commitment to putting students first.

Company values

From First Student

• Focus on safety: Safety is at the heart of everything we do

• Foster teamwork: Work together, act with integrity, respect each other, and champion diversity and inclusion

• Care for our students: Ensure our vehicles are welcoming and trusted places where students feel comfortable and secure

• Surpass customer expectations: Go the extra mile to deliver an extraordinary experience for our customers and communities

• Set the highest standards: Continually seek a better way to do things with innovation, sustainable practices, financial discipline, commercial excellence, and operational excellence


What First Student employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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