ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Bus Driver Trainer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GovernmentJobs.com

Bus Driver Trainer

Vista, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $25.50/hr

Bus Driver Trainer The purpose of a Bus Driver Trainer is to provide support within the student transportation services area with specific responsibilities for classroom instruction and behind the ...

Atascadero Unified

Bus Driver Trainer

Atascadero, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $26.50/hr

BUS DRIVER TRAINER SALARY: Range 34 (Step D- $26.57 to Step G - $32.77) Sick Leave, Vacation Pay, 11 paid Holidays & PERS Retirement Benefit package includes health, dental and vision insurance for ...

Atascadero Unified

Bus Driver Trainer

Atascadero, CA · On-site

$26.57 - $32.77/hr

BUS DRIVER TRAINER SALARY: Range 34 (Step D- $26.57 to Step G - $32.77) Sick Leave, Vacation Pay, 11 paid Holidays & PERS Retirement Benefit package includes health, dental and vision insurance for ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

The ideal candidate has a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and previous experience as a bus driver or has completed bus driver training. If you have an impeccable driving record, high safety ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

The ideal candidate has a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and previous experience as a bus driver or has completed bus driver training. If you have an impeccable driving record, high safety ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

The ideal candidate has a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and previous experience as a bus driver or has completed bus driver training. If you have an impeccable driving record, high safety ...

GovernmentJobs.com

BUS DRIVER

Bellflower, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

We are actively recruiting candidates for our District Bus Driver Training Class. If you meet the general requirements but lack the Class B CDL or California School Bus Driver Certificate, please ...

First Class Charter

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

The ideal candidate has a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and previous experience as a bus driver or has completed bus driver training. If you have an impeccable driving record, high safety ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBus Driver Trainer JobsBus Driver Trainer Jobs in California

Bus Driver Trainer information

See California salary details

$14

$22

$29

How much do bus driver trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver trainer in California is $22.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bus driver trainer?

Bus Driver Trainers are professionals responsible for instructing and evaluating new and existing bus drivers to ensure they operate vehicles safely and in compliance with transportation regulations. They teach driving skills, safety protocols, customer service, and emergency procedures. Bus Driver Trainers also provide retraining or refresher courses and may be involved in assessing driver performance and maintaining training records. Their role is essential in promoting road safety and high service standards within transportation organizations.

How do bus driver trainers typically balance classroom instruction with on-the-road training sessions?

Bus Driver Trainers usually split their time between classroom-based instruction, where they cover safety regulations and company policies, and hands-on driving sessions to teach practical skills. This balance ensures trainees not only understand theoretical concepts but also gain confidence behind the wheel. Trainers often coordinate with safety managers and other trainers to develop comprehensive lesson plans and may provide feedback sessions after each driving practice. Effective time management and adaptability are key, as training schedules can shift based on new driver needs or regulatory updates.

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

To thrive as a Bus Driver Trainer, you need extensive knowledge of traffic laws, bus operations, and instructional techniques, often supported by a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and prior experience in bus driving. Familiarity with training simulators, vehicle inspection tools, and safety management systems is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and leadership are essential soft skills for effectively teaching and evaluating new drivers. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe driving practices and maintaining high standards of passenger and public safety.

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

AspectBus Driver TrainerBus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), training certificationCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, on-road instructionOn buses, routes, and transit environments
Employer & Industry UsageTransportation companies, schools, transit agenciesPublic transit, school districts, private transport

The main difference is that a Bus Driver Trainer focuses on instructing and certifying new drivers, while a Bus Driver operates the vehicle daily. Both roles require CDL certification, but the trainer's role emphasizes teaching skills and safety protocols.

How much training does it take to be a bus driver trainer?

Becoming a bus driver trainer typically requires prior experience as a bus driver, along with completion of a specialized trainer certification or program that covers instructional techniques and safety protocols. The training duration can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the program and employer requirements.

What does it take to become a bus driver trainer?

To become a bus driver trainer, individuals typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, along with several years of driving experience. Many employers require trainers to complete a specialized training program or certification in driver instruction and demonstrate strong communication and safety skills.

What type of bus driver trainer makes the most money?

Experienced bus driver trainers who hold advanced certifications, such as commercial driver instructor licenses, and have specialized skills in safety and passenger management tend to earn higher salaries. Trainers working for large transportation companies or in regions with high demand for qualified instructors also typically make more money. Leadership roles, such as training supervisors or program managers, generally offer higher compensation within the training field.

What cities in California are hiring for Bus Driver Trainer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Bus Driver Trainer job openings:

Bus Driver Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver Trainer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,285 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Bus Driver Trainer

Atascadero Unified School Dist

Atascadero, CA • On-site

$22.50 - $26.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Bus Driver Trainer

Position: Bus Driver Trainer Salary: Range 34 (Step D- $26.57 to Step G - $32.77) Sick Leave, Vacation Pay, 11 paid Holidays & PERS Retirement Benefit package includes health, dental and vision insurance for employee and dependents is optional. Hours: 8.0 hrs per day for 222 days per school year.

Qualifications:

  • Communication / Interpersonal Skills Essential.
  • Valid Department of Education State Certified School Bus Driver Instructor Certificate.
  • Valid CA School Bus Driver's Certificate required (DL 45).
  • Drug & Alcohol Clearance required prior to working.
  • Current Medical Certificate (DL 51).
  • DOJ Fingerprint Clearance.
  • TB Clearance required prior to working.
  • Current CPR / First Aid Certification.

Deadline: Open Until Filled If interested please complete a District Application, Letter of Interest, K-4 from DMV, School Bus Driver Certificate and turn into the Human Resources Office (kristysanchez@atasusd.org) Atascadero Unified School District 5601 West Mall Atascadero, CA 93422 Visit the District website at: www.atasusd.org

Apply