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Bus Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Bridgeview, IL · On-site

$31.27/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... BENEFITS SUMMARY About Us Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Bridgeview, IL · On-site

$31.27/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... BENEFITS SUMMARY Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ("Pace ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Markham, IL · On-site

$32.52/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... BENEFITS SUMMARY About Us Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Markham, IL · On-site

$32.52/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... BENEFITS SUMMARY Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ("Pace ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper (4)

Elgin, IL · On-site

$34/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... BENEFIT SUMMARY Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ("Pace ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper (3)

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$33.49/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... BENEFITS SUMMARY About Us Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper (2)

Evanston, IL · On-site

$33.39/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ("Pace"), was established to aid and assist ...

Pace Bus

Mechanic Helper

Elgin, IL · On-site

$33.10/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is responsible for performing preventive maintenance inspections and general repairs on all Company ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper (4)

Elgin, IL · On-site

$34/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... BENEFIT SUMMARY About Us Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ...

Pace Bus

Mechanic Helper

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$33.49/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is responsible for performing preventive maintenance inspections and general repairs on all Company ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper (2)

Evanston, IL · On-site

$33.39/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... Us Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ("Pace"), was ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper (3)

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$33.49/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is ... BENEFITS SUMMARY Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ("Pace ...

Pace Bus

Mechanic Helper

Evanston, IL · On-site

$33.39/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is responsible for performing preventive maintenance inspections and general repairs on all Company ...

Pace Bus

Mechanic Helper

Markham, IL · On-site

$32.52/hr

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is responsible for performing preventive maintenance inspections and general repairs on all Company ...

School City of Hobart

Bus Aide

Hobart, IN · On-site

$18/hr

Transportation/Bus Aide Date Posted: 3/11/2026 Location: Service Center Closing Date: Filled as ... helping support, stabilize, or reposition students as needed using proper body mechanics and ...

School City of Hobart

Bus Aide

Hobart, IN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Bus Aide School City of Hobart Seeking Bus Aides for the School City of Hobart. Positions are ... helping support, stabilize, or reposition students as needed using proper body mechanics and ...

Lake County Schools Consortium

Bus Driver

Libertyville, IL

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Help disabled children get on and off the bus * Ensure children stay in their seat at all times * Report and write up discipline issues * Follow traffic laws and state and federal transit regulations

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All JobsBus Helper JobsBus Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL

Bus Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do bus helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus helper in Chicago, IL is $18.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $18.85 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Bus jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Bus Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 77% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,028 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Mechanic Helper

Pace Suburban Bus

Bridgeview, IL • On-site

$31.27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description


Job Description:
Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is responsible for performing preventive maintenance inspections and general repairs on all Company vehicles and equipment, but not limited to:
  1. Making all types of service calls.
  2. Performing shift duties as needed.
  3. Completing all required documents and accounting for all materials used in accordance with work order systems.
  4. Performing other duties as assigned or required.

Qualifications:
Age:
18+.
Education:
High school diploma or equivalency.
Experience:
Must have at least one (1) year previous experience in diesel and gasoline vehicle repair and/or relevant technical school training.
Certifications:
Must attend Pace's Mechanic Training Program and pass examination for position.
Must have or obtain within 30 days of being hired, a valid "B" Commercial Driver's license with air brake endorsements.
Proficiencies:
Must have or purchase a good starter set of hand tools sufficient for performing the duties of the position.
Must be able to operate all company equipment and have knowledge of the service area.
Physical Requirements:
Must be capable of lifting 75 pounds to waist height, maintaining and carrying that weight for a minimum of ten feet.
This is a safety sensitive position.
Working Conditions:
Work is performed in a garage setting with exposure to loud noises and noxious odors, and outdoors with exposure to inclement weather. The performance of these duties may be required 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
This position is not eligible for hybrid schedule or telecommuting.
Salary:
$31.27/hr
This is a bargained for position (Union) subject to the terms of a Collective Bargaining Agreement.
BENEFITS SUMMARY
About Us
Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ("Pace"), was established to aid and assist public transportation in the six-county northeastern Illinois area consisting of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties.
As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a manner that will not discriminate against any person because of actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, pregnancy, marital or civil union status, citizenship status, disability, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, order of protection status, childbirth, medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic defined under applicable law.
Thank you for your interest in Pace. If you are having difficulty completing this application or require other assistance, please contact Devlin Collins at devlin.collins@pacebus.com.

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