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Bus Driver Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

DATTCO

School Bus Driver

North Smithfield, RI · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

School Bus Driver Location: North Smithfield, RI Salary: $23 - $30 Career Site : Dattco START YOUR APPLICATION ( We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers for our location in North ...

DATTCO

School Bus Driver

Cranston, RI · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

School Bus Driver Department: School Bus Driver Location: Cranston, RI Salary: $24 - $31 Per Hour Career Site : Dattco START YOUR APPLICATION ( We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers.

Westerly Public Schools

School Bus Driver

Westerly, RI · On-site

School Bus Driver Location: Transportation Effective Date: 03/07/2026 Application Deadline: Open until filled Pay Range: $ 29.33 Union: Local 808 (Transportation) Supervision Received: Director of ...

DATTCO

School Bus Driver

Cranston, RI · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it's like from a DATTCO school bus driver:

First Student

Barrington School Bus Driver

Warren, RI · On-site

$29.26/hr

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 ...

DATTCO

School Bus Driver

Cranston, RI · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it's like from a DATTCO school bus driver ...

DATTCO Motorcoach

School Bus Driver

Harrisville, RI · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

School Bus Driver We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers for our location in Burrillville, RI. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest employee satisfaction rate in the industry.

DATTCO

School Bus Driver

Harrisville, RI · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers for our location in Burrillville, RI. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it's like ...

First Student

Barrington School Bus Driver

Warren, RI · On-site

$29.26/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers - Barrington School District, Barrington, RI Sign-On Bonus: $1,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the ...

DATTCO

School Bus Driver

Smithfield, RI · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers for our location in North Smithfield, RI. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it ...

First Student

Barrington School Bus Driver

Warren, RI · On-site

$29.26/hr

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 ...

DATTCO

School Bus Driver

North Smithfield, RI · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers for our location in North Smithfield, RI. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it ...

DATTCO

School Bus Driver

Cranston, RI · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it's like from a DATTCO school bus driver:

DATTCO

School Bus Driver

Harrisville, RI · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers for our location in Burrillville, RI. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest employee satisfaction rate in the industry. Hear what it's like ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsBus Driver JobsBus Driver Jobs in Rhode Island

Bus Driver information

See Rhode Island salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver in Rhode Island is $19.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bus driver?

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.

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 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.

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.

Do school bus drivers get 40 hours a week?

School bus drivers often work full-time hours, which can include around 40 hours per week, especially during the school year. However, schedules may vary based on the employer, route assignments, and whether drivers work part-time or full-time. Many drivers also work early mornings and afternoons to accommodate school schedules.

How much do bus drivers make?

Bus drivers typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, employer, and location. In some areas, wages can be higher with additional certifications or seniority, and many bus drivers work full-time with benefits.

What type of bus driver makes the most money?

Long-haul bus drivers, who operate long-distance routes and often work extended hours, tend to earn higher salaries compared to local or city bus drivers. Additionally, experienced drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and specialized skills such as safety training or operating larger buses may also earn more. Salary can vary based on employer, location, and experience.
More about Bus Driver jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island?

For Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Driver jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Bus Driver job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in RI?

For Bus Driver jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, and 46% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,345 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

School Bus Driver

DATTCO

North Smithfield, RI • On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago

​DATTCO rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 100 rated public transport

Job description

School Bus Driver

Department: School Bus Driver

Location: North Smithfield, RI

Salary: $23 - $30

Career Site : Dattco

START YOUR APPLICATION (https://apply.hrmdirect.com/resumedirect/ApplyOnline/Apply.aspx?req_id=3754495&source=3754495-CJB-0)

We are currently hiring experienced school bus drivers for our location in North Smithfield, RI. Come find out why DATTCO has the highest employee satisfaction rate in the industry.

Hear what it's like from a DATTCO school bus driver:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/uoal180vsh9wizcmweb0s/Employee-Success-Story-Diana-Jimenez-FINAL.mp4?rlkey=gobg3bhomce8h30vw8gpw9it4&e=2&dl=0

DATTCO is a third-generation, family-owned passenger transportation company that serves 30 school districts throughout Connecticut and Rhode Island. Learn more about us at www.dattco.com.

What We Offer:

  • You will love our culture! We treat you like family, not a number.

  • Competitive compensation. Pay based on experience.

  • Part-time work schedule of 20 to 30 hours per week. Additional hours may be available.

  • 401k with company match.

  • Career growth opportunities. We promote from within.

  • Paid holidays.

  • Annual pay raises.

  • Employee referral bonuses.

  • Guaranteed hours.

  • Paid safety meetings. Paid training.

  • Compensation of $23.00-30.00/hour.

Responsibilities:

  • Safely transport children to and from school.

  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.

Requirements:

  • RI CDL-B with P & S endorsements and a RI white card. Individuals with out-of-state CDL-s may qualify.

  • Pass a background check. Pass a drug test.

Questions? Contact Leslie at (401) 597-6430 x2261 or leslie.forget@dattco.com.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status and any other protected classes.

START YOUR APPLICATION (https://apply.hrmdirect.com/resumedirect/ApplyOnline/Apply.aspx?req_id=3754495&source=3754495-CJB-0)

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