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Bus Driver Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

De Witt, IA

$13.25 - $18.25/hr

Bus Driver Regular Route. Approximately 6:00 am - 8:00 am and 2:15 pm - 4:15 pm. To start as soon as possible. Must have Class B CDL, Air Brakes, School Bus, and Passenger endorsements or the ability ...

Bus Driver

Albia, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Bus Driver Key duties include conducting pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections, obey all traffic laws, assisting passengers (including those with disabilities), and maintaining the cleanliness of ...

Bus Driver

Ogden, IA

$16.75 - $23/hr

Bus Route Driver Location: Ogden Community Schools, Ogden, Iowa Position Type: Part-Time, 9-Month Contract (School Year) with opportunity for additional routes in the summer. Reports To:

Bus Driver

Norwalk, IA

$16 - $21.75/hr

NORWALK COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Job Title Bus Driver Reports to Transportation Director Position Purpose To provide safe and efficient transportation so that students may enjoy the fullest possible ...

Bus Driver

Albia, IA · On-site

$15.90/hr

Bus Driver Key duties include conducting pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections, obey all traffic laws, assisting passengers (including those with disabilities), and maintaining the cleanliness of ...

Bus Driver

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$22/hr

Notify supervisor of accidents, passenger incidents, medical/behavioral problems, and/or bus mechanical/electrical trouble. * Obeys all traffic laws and transportation practices as outlined in the CD ...

Bus Driver

Carlisle, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

Carlisle Community School District JOB TITLE Bus Driver REPORTS TO Transportation Director QUALIFICATIONS * High School diploma or equivalent * Valid Iowa driver's license * Valid Class "B ...

BUS DRIVER

Humboldt, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

We need a bus driver for Fridays, 8:30 am - 5 pm and to fill in for vacations or time off for our FT Driver. 8 hours/week. Must have: Valid Driver's License with Chauffeur's License (Class D) permit.

Bus Driver

Carlisle, IA

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

JOB TITLE Bus Driver REPORTS TO Transportation Director QUALIFICATIONS * High School diploma or equivalent * Valid Iowa driver's license * Valid Class "B" commercial driver's license with passenger ...

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Showing results 1-20

Bus Driver information

See Iowa salary details

$7

$18

$26

How much do bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver in Iowa is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid Bus Driver?

The highest paid bus drivers are typically those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or who work in high-cost regions, earning salaries that can exceed $60,000 annually. Factors such as union membership, certifications, and the type of bus operated can also influence pay rates.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers in Tennessee typically earn an average hourly wage of around $14 to $17, which translates to approximately $29,000 to $35,000 annually for full-time drivers. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the school district's pay scale, and drivers often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements.

What are bus drivers?

Bus drivers are licensed professionals responsible for safely operating buses to transport passengers along designated routes. Their duties include picking up and dropping off passengers at scheduled stops, adhering to traffic laws, and maintaining a safe and courteous environment. They may work for public transit agencies, schools, or private companies, and often handle customer service tasks such as answering questions or assisting passengers with disabilities. In addition to driving, bus drivers are responsible for performing basic vehicle inspections and reporting any mechanical issues. Their primary goal is to ensure passengers reach their destinations safely and on time.

Do bus drivers need a CDL?

Yes, bus drivers typically need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate large passenger vehicles legally. The specific license class required depends on the size and type of bus, and additional endorsements may be necessary for transporting passengers or hazardous materials.

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

AspectBus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)CDL with school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, charter, or private transportationSchool campuses, student transportation
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, private companiesSchool districts, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with specific endorsements, School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students within school districts, often with additional safety training. Bus Drivers may work in various settings like public transit or private charters, serving different passenger needs. The key difference lies in the work environment and the specific certification requirements tailored for student safety in school transportation.

What are some common challenges bus drivers face during their daily routes, and how can they manage them?

Bus drivers often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, handling difficult passengers, and navigating through traffic or adverse weather conditions. To manage these challenges, drivers are trained to remain calm under pressure, use conflict resolution techniques, and follow safe driving practices. Effective communication with dispatchers and maintaining a strong focus on passenger safety also help drivers address issues efficiently and keep routes running smoothly.

Do bus drivers work 40 hours a week?

Bus drivers typically work around 40 hours per week, often including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and split shifts depending on their schedule and employer. Overtime may be required during busy periods or to cover additional routes, and schedules can vary by transit agency or company policies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and a solid understanding of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with route planning software, vehicle inspection tools, and sometimes GPS navigation systems is typically required. Strong customer service skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help bus drivers manage passengers and challenging situations. These skills ensure passenger safety, reliable transportation services, and a positive experience for all riders.

What Do Bus Drivers Do?

Bus drivers transport passengers from one location to another. School bus drivers chauffeur students from bus stops to school and back again. City bus drivers transport passengers between different city locales. Some bus drivers may choose to operate long-distance vehicles that provide rides across state or national borders, or may drive chartered trips or sightseeing tours. It is a bus driver’s job to welcome passengers aboard their vehicle, collect payment (if applicable), and ensure that everyone is transported safely to their destination.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in Iowa? For Bus Driver jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Bus Driver job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in IA? For Bus Driver jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Bus Driver job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,695 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

$13.25 - $18.25/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description


Bus Driver Regular Route. 
Approximately 6:00 am - 8:00 am and 2:15 pm - 4:15 pm. To start as soon as possible.
Must have Class B CDL, Air Brakes, School Bus, and Passenger endorsements or the ability to obtain.  Training is provided.
                  

0-3 Experience

3+ years Experience

Bus Route

$22

$22.50

Car/Van Route

$19

$19.50

    
Position open until filled.

For more information or to apply, please contact Brent Rheingans, Operations Director, at brent.rheingans@cd-csd.org. 
Employees who operate school vehicles are subject to drug and alcohol testing if a commercial driver's license is required to operate the school vehicle and the school vehicle transports sixteen or more persons including the driver or the school vehicle weighs twenty-six thousand, one pounds or more.  For purposes of the drug and alcohol testing program, "employees" also includes applicants who have been offered a position to operate a school vehicle.  The employees operating a school vehicle are subject to the drug and alcohol testing program beginning the first day they operate or are offered a position to operate a school vehicle and continue to be subject to the drug and alcohol testing program.
The Central DeWitt Community School District is an EEO/AA employer.



 
FLSA Status:             Nonexempt