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Bus Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bus Aide

Big River, CA

$11.75 - $15/hr

Duties Assist students with boarding and exiting the bus safely Help secure seat belts, harnesses, or wheelchairs as needed Support students with special needs during the ride Maintain order and ...

Bus Driver

Rio Vista, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Help students requiring special assistance, including operating wheelchair lifts and restraints. * Conduct bus evacuation drills; review rules, regulations and procedures with students. * Maintain ...

Bus Monitor

Fontana, CA · On-site

$18.41 - $19.35/hr

Bus monitors accompany and supervise children on the bus as they ride to and from school. ESSENTIAL ... Monitors will move around a great deal, helping students in and out of their seats. They rarely sit ...

Bus Driver

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

This includes helping customers with disabilities, on and off the wheelchair lift. As requested by the customer, the Bus Driver will assist with safety restraints. * Promotes safety awareness and ...

Bus Driver Extra Help Part-Time

Clovis, CA · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Bending, stooping, reaching, standing, walking, up to and including the possibility of climbing a ladder to reach high windows for cleaning/defogging, assisting elderly and disabled riders on the bus ...

Bus Driver Extra Help Part-Time

Clovis, CA · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Bending, stooping, reaching, standing, walking, up to and including the possibility of climbing a ladder to reach high windows for cleaning/defogging, assisting elderly and disabled riders on the bus ...

Bus Driver

San Bruno, CA

$23.31 - $25.67/hr

Help disabled passengers get on and off the bus * Obey traffic laws and state and federal transit regulations * Follow procedures to make sure they and all passengers a safe * Watch traffic and ...

Bus Driver - II

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$27.12 - $33.87/hr

Temporary/extra-help positions are limited to 999 hours per fiscal year (960 hours for CalPERS ... Bus Driver - I (Auburn/South Placer - PCT) #2026-11640-01 Bus Driver - I (Tahoe - TART) #2026-11640 ...

Bus Driver - I

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$22.30 - $27.85/hr

Temporary/extra-help positions are limited to 999 hours per fiscal year (960 hours for CalPERS ... Bus Driver - I (Auburn/South Placer - PCT) #2026-11640-01 Bus Driver - I (Tahoe - TART) #2026-11640 ...

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Bus Helper information

See California salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do bus helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus helper in California is $17.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bus helper?

Bus helpers, also known as bus attendants or aides, assist the bus driver in ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers, especially children or individuals with special needs, during transportation. Their responsibilities often include helping passengers board and exit the bus safely, maintaining order and discipline, and assisting with seat belts or mobility devices. They also monitor passenger behavior, respond to emergencies, and communicate with parents or school staff as needed. Bus helpers play a vital role in creating a secure and supportive environment on the bus.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a bus helper, and how do they support the bus driver and students?

A Bus Helper's daily responsibilities include assisting students as they board and exit the bus, ensuring that all passengers are seated safely, and helping maintain order during the ride. They support the bus driver by monitoring student behavior, providing supervision, and addressing any immediate issues or needs that arise. Bus Helpers often assist students with special needs, communicate with teachers or parents as needed, and help with emergency procedures, contributing to a safe and positive bus environment.

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

To thrive as a Bus Helper, you need basic literacy, attention to safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred. Familiarity with safety protocols and sometimes the use of two-way radios or communication devices is beneficial. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to manage children or passengers with care are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure the safety, comfort, and orderly conduct of passengers, contributing to a positive and secure transportation experience.

What is the difference between Bus Helper vs Bus Driver?

AspectBus HelperBus Driver
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require a commercial driver's license (CDL)High school diploma or equivalent; valid CDL with passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentAssist passengers, ensure safety, and support bus operations; typically on the bus or at bus terminalsOperate the bus, navigate routes, and ensure passenger safety; primarily driving and route management
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, schools, private transportation companiesPublic transit agencies, private bus companies, schools

The main difference between a Bus Helper and a Bus Driver lies in their responsibilities. Bus Helpers assist with passenger safety and boarding, while Bus Drivers operate the vehicle and navigate routes. Both roles often require similar certifications, but the Bus Driver's role involves driving and route management, making it more focused on operation. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position in the transportation industry.

How much do school bus helpers make in the US?

School bus helpers in the US typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $20,000 to $30,000 depending on location and experience. They assist with loading and unloading students, ensuring safety, and may require basic training or certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bus jobs in California?

The most popular types of Bus jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Bus Helper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Bus Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Bus Helper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 76% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,360 per year, or $18 per hour.
Minnesota Coaches, Inc.
1 - 5K employees

$11.75 - $15/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Bus AideJob Overview

Seeking caring and dependable individuals to join our team as School Bus Assistants. In this role, you will ride along on our buses and provide support to students with special needs, helping ensure a safe and positive transportation experience. If you enjoy working with kids and want a meaningful, part-time opportunity with a family-owned company, this may be the perfect fit for you.

Duties

Assist students with boarding and exiting the bus safely

Help secure seat belts, harnesses, or wheelchairs as needed

Support students with special needs during the ride

Maintain order and ensure safe behavior on the bus

Communicate with the driver about student needs or issues

Provide comfort and reassurance to students during transport

Monitor students for safety throughout the route

Assist in emergency situations, including evacuations if required

Report any concerns or incidents to the driver or supervisor

Help maintain a positive and respectful environment on the bus

Requirements

Enjoy working with children and creating a safe, supportive environment

Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and assist students as needed

Reliable, punctual, and responsible

If you are passionate about providing safe transportation services and enjoy working with children, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity as a School Bus Assistant.

#CEN

Big River

Average Pay Rate

22.75Benefits and Total Rewards

We believe in rewarding great people with meaningful benefits that support your health, growth, and long term success.

Part Time Team Members
  • Dental insurance

  • Vision insurance

  • Paid training

  • Annual bonus opportunity

  • Career development opportunities

This job description outlines the general nature and level of responsibilities associated with this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions. Employees may be required to perform additional job-related duties consistent with business needs. The Company reserves the right to revise, modify, interpret, or apply this job description at its discretion and in accordance with applicable law. This job description does not create a contract of employment with the Company. Employment is at will and may be terminated by either the employee or the Company at any time, subject to applicable law.

Minnesota Coaches LLC and its affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity Employers and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.