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Bus Driver Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Los Angeles Metro

BUS OPERATOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$28.81 - $34.93/hr

If promoted to Line Instructor/Mentor, instructs bus operator student trainees on all job duties ... S. driver license for at least two years * Satisfactory driving record for the past five years as ...

National Express Corp

Safety Trainer

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$40/hr

Appropriate vehicle class license, current medical and school bus driver's certificate. * Ability to interface and communicate with all types of individuals.. * Must be knowledgeable of adult ...

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Bus Driver Instructor information

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How much do bus driver instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver instructor in California is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bus driver instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bus Driver Instructor, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), thorough knowledge of traffic laws, and experience in commercial or school bus driving. Familiarity with training materials, simulation tools, and state-mandated certification programs is typically required. Patience, clear communication, and strong observation skills help instructors effectively teach and assess aspiring drivers. These skills are vital to ensure new drivers are safe, competent, and compliant with transportation regulations.

What are some common challenges bus driver instructors face when training new drivers?

Bus Driver Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among trainees, language barriers, and helping trainees overcome nervousness behind the wheel. Instructors must adapt their teaching methods to match individual learning paces while ensuring all safety regulations and operational procedures are understood and followed. Additionally, they frequently conduct hands-on training in real traffic conditions, which requires patience, clear communication, and quick decision-making to maintain safety for everyone involved.

How to become a bus driver instructor?

To become a bus driver instructor, candidates typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, along with several years of driving experience. They must also complete a specialized instructor training program and pass a certification exam, demonstrating knowledge of safety protocols and teaching methods. Some regions require background checks and ongoing training to maintain certification.

What is a bus driver instructor?

Bus Driver Instructors are professionals responsible for training new and existing bus drivers on safe driving practices, vehicle operation, and compliance with transportation regulations. They provide both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training to ensure drivers meet licensing and safety standards. Instructors also assess driver performance, deliver refresher courses, and stay updated on changes in laws and technologies related to bus operations. Their work helps ensure the safety of passengers and the general public.

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

AspectBus Driver InstructorBus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Instructor CertificationCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, classrooms, on-road instructionOn the road, transporting passengers
Employer & Industry UsageTraining schools, transit agencies, private companiesPublic transit agencies, school districts, private transport
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for training roles, certification requirementsFocuses on driving, passenger safety, route management

The main difference is that a Bus Driver Instructor trains and certifies new bus drivers, requiring additional instructor certifications, while a Bus Driver primarily operates the vehicle and transports passengers. The instructor role emphasizes training, safety education, and certification, whereas the bus driver role focuses on driving skills and passenger service.

What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver Instructor jobs in California? For Bus Driver Instructor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Driver Instructor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Driver Instructor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Bus Driver Instructor jobs? Cities in California with the most Bus Driver Instructor job openings:
Bus Driver Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,238 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Bus Operator - Substitute

San Joaquin Delta College

Stockton, CA • On-site

$19.88 - $24.44/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Salary: $19.88 - $24.44 Hourly
Location : Stockton, CA (Main Campus)
Job Type: Temporary/Substitute
Job Number: 2023-00061
Department: Maintenance and Operations
Opening Date: 01/17/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: CSEA
Calendar: 12-month
Description
To operate assigned buses and vehicles to transport students to and from athletic events and field trips; to coordinate the mechanical maintenance and repair of College-owned buses and vehicles; and to perform a variety of tasks relative to assigned area of responsibility.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives direction from an assigned supervisor.
Responsibilities and Duties
  1. Operate assigned buses or vehicles to transport students and staff safely to and from athletic events and field trips.
  2. Coordinate vehicle maintenance and mechanical repairs; contact outside repair companies as needed.
  3. Inspect college vehicles prior to operation for safety purposes; clean windshields and headlights; clean interior and exterior of college vehicles including picking up debris, sweeping floor and wiping upholstery; service college vehicles with fuel and oil.
  4. Inspect vehicles for compliance with state regulations including emissions; maintain all fuel and mileage inspection records for College vehicles; maintain daily inspection records forcollege vehicles.
  5. Maintain appropriate behavior among passengers on buses; follow College policies regarding student control and contact with the public.
  6. Maintain schedules of transportation needs for various College events.
  7. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Qualifications
Knowledge of:
  • California Motor Vehicle Code and the Education Code that apply to the operation of vehicles transporting passengers.
  • Safety regulations and safe work practices including safe bus driving procedures and operations.
  • Pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations.
  • Basic first aid practices, procedures and techniques.
  • Customer service skills.

Ability to:
  • Operate assigned busses and vehicles safely and effectively.
  • Coordinate and a variety of repairs and preventive maintenance on assigned vehicles.
  • Inspect assigned vehicles for safety.
  • Maintain a variety of files and records.
  • Recognize malfunctions in equipment and report them to campus mechanic for appropriate action.
  • Exhibit patience in challenging situations.
  • Assure that assigned vehicles are maintained in clean and safe operating condition.
  • Read and interpret area maps.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
  • Sensitivity to and understanding of, the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, linguistic, ethnic backgrounds and disabilities of community college students and staff.
  • Maintain physical conditioning for the safe operation of a bus; frequent to continuous sitting.

Education and Experience Requirements:
Education:
Completion of the twelfth grade or the equivalent.
Experience:
One year of bus operation experience.
Licenses/Special Requirements:
  • Possession of or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid Class B, California Motor Vehicle Operator's license.
  • Possession of a valid Commercial Vehicle Driver's Certificate, issued by the California Highway Patrol including a valid First Aid Certificate.
  • Possession of an unrestricted State Department of Education Driver Instructor Certificate.

Supplemental Information
  • Starting salary negotiable based upon years of experience.
  • Overtime and Per Diem offered.
  • Accommodations provided for overnight trips.

San Joaquin Delta College offers its employees a comprehensive fringe benefit package that includes health insurance, dental insurance, vision care, life insurance, and long-term disability. This coverage is offered for the employee and their dependents.
Please note:
  • Full-Time Employees - Participation in medical, dental and, vision is MANDATORY and employees may not opt out even if covered by other insurance.
  • Part-Time Employees - Employees are eligible to participate in medical, dental, and vision but must meet eligibility criteria and are responsible for 100% of the cost.
Benefits details can be found at:
Retirement Plan
Retirement information can be found at:
Paid Time Off
The District realizes the importance of creating a balance between work and personal life. To work at the highest ability, employees need to take time away from their job for rest, recreation, and important personal matters. To accommodate those needs, SJDC provides generous holiday and vacation schedules and sick time hours.
District Holidays
Tuition Fee Waiver
Employees and their eligible dependents are eligible for tuition fee waivers for regular classes (not including community service classes) taken at Delta College.
Events
All Athletic home events (excluding playoffs) are free to the public.
01
Will you be able to provide a copy of your driver's license as well as your DMV printout?
  • Yes
  • No

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