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Bus Driver Jobs in Pelham, AL (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Vestavia Hills, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Bus Driver VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS JOB TITLE: Bus Driver QUALIFICATIONS: * Possess and maintain a valid Alabama bus driver license (ABL) and commercial driver's license (CDL) with P/S endorsement.

Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with endorsement for driving a passenger vehicle (P) required * School bus (S) endorsement preferred * Age requirement: 21-80 years of age * Any CDL driver above the ...

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Bus Driver information

See Pelham, AL salary details

$7

$18

$26

How much do bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver in Pelham, AL is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $20.53 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, with some additional hours for training or extracurricular activities.

What type of bus driver makes the most money?

Long-haul bus drivers, who operate intercity or cross-country routes, tend to earn higher salaries than local or school bus drivers due to longer hours and increased responsibilities. Additionally, experienced drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and specialized endorsements often earn more, especially if they work for private companies or in regions with higher wage standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in Pelham, AL?

The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Pelham, AL are:

What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver jobs in Pelham, AL?

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

What job categories do people searching Bus Driver jobs in Pelham, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Driver jobs in Pelham, AL are:

What cities near Pelham, AL are hiring for Bus Driver jobs?

Cities near Pelham, AL with the most Bus Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Bus Driver job openings in Pelham, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,842 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

$17 - $23.25/hr

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Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Bus Driver

VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS JOB TITLE: Bus Driver

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Possess and maintain a valid Alabama bus driver license (ABL) and commercial driver's license (CDL) with P/S endorsement.
  • Maintain a current Alabama School Bus Physical or ALDOT Health Card as required by state law or the Alabama State Department of Education.
  • Possess and maintain an acceptable motor vehicle record including the ability to remain insurable under school system insurance requirements.
  • Must meet background clearance as specified by Alabama statutes and State Board of Education regulations.

FLSA: Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO: Director of Transportation

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Salary and benefits shall be paid consistent with the system's approved compensation plan. Length of the work year and hours of employment shall be those established by the system.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Demonstrates support for the school system, its vision, goals, and priorities.
  • Adheres to all traffic laws and driving safety rules.
  • Prepares and submits monthly school bus reports as required.
  • Prepares and submits an accident report when involved in an accident.
  • Performs daily pre-trip inspection of the bus and completes and submits form as required. Performs post-trip inspection of the bus.
  • Performs duties in a courteous, professional manner.
  • Maintains a clean bus.
  • Maintains discipline while students are on the bus.
  • Reports students with discipline problems to the proper authority.
  • Reports all accidents immediately to the transportation office and other appropriate officials; follows school system procedures related to accidents and post-accident activities.
  • Regulates heating, cooling and/or ventilation of the bus or vehicle for the comfort and safety of passengers.
  • Notifies supervisor and/or other appropriate authorities in case of mechanical failure of bus or lateness.
  • Maintains and uses communications and/or surveillance equipment on buses according to school system regulations.
  • Maintains cooperative and appropriate relationships with students, parents, community members and other employees.
  • Picks up and discharges students at authorized stops in accordance with assigned route and schedule.
  • Prepares for and assists students in evacuating the bus when necessary.
  • Transports students on field trips and outings, athletic events, and other extracurricular or co-curricular events (evenings, nights, or other times) as assigned.
  • Attends scheduled trainings.
  • Maintains confidentiality regarding school/workplace matters in accordance with state and federal law.
  • Demonstrates initiative in identifying potential problems and/or opportunities for improvement in areas of responsibility.
  • Responds to inquiries and requests in a timely and positive manner.
  • Maintains and submits required reports, records, and correspondence in a timely and accurate manner.
  • Properly cares for tools, equipment, and material resources of the school system.
  • Adheres to school system rules, administrative procedures, local Board policies, and state, federal, and local laws.
  • Reports absences and takes leave in accordance with Board policies and procedures.
  • Reports identified mechanical needs to Transportation Department.
  • Assumes other reasonable and equitable job-related duties assigned by the immediate supervisor(s).

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

    • Ability to pass drug test in accordance with applicable law.
    • Proficient in written and verbal communication skills.
    • Ability to operate a school vehicle over an assigned route according to a defined time schedule, which may require driving during pre-daylight and dusk periods.
    • Ability to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
    • Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force.
    • Physical ability to perform all duties and responsibilities as specified by state and federal regulations, including but not limited to pre-trip inspections, post-trip inspections, and bus evacuations.
    • Ability to be punctual and in regular attendance.

EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on evaluation of personnel.

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job qualifications and responsibilities, and the employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned. The Vestavia Hills City Board of Education reserves the right to amend the job description as needed.

SOURCE: Vestavia Hills City Schools, Vestavia, Alabama