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Bus Operational Excellence Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Illinois Central School Bus

Safety Manager

Batavia, IL · On-site

$64K - $68K/yr

Apply today and help us create a safer, stronger transportation operation through leadership, training, and compliance excellence. North America Central School Bus is an EEO/AA employer fully ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$17.50/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Oakbrook Terrace, IL · On-site

$17.50/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Addison, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Skokie, IL · On-site

$17.50/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Prairieview, IL · On-site

$17.55/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$16.50/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Glen Ellyn, IL · On-site

$16.50/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17.50/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Glenwood, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

New

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

First Student

School Bus Monitor

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations ... Awards & recognition We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsBus Operational Excellence JobsBus Operational Excellence Jobs in Chicago, IL

Bus Operational Excellence information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$23

$30

How much do bus operational excellence jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operational excellence in Chicago, IL is $23.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Bus Operational Excellence vs Bus Maintenance Technician?

AspectBus Operational ExcellenceBus Maintenance Technician
Primary FocusOptimizing bus operations, process improvements, efficiency, and service qualityPerforming repairs, maintenance, and inspections on buses to ensure safety and functionality
Required SkillsProcess analysis, operational strategies, data analysis, problem-solvingMechanical skills, troubleshooting, technical knowledge of bus systems
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, operational centers, field auditsGarage, maintenance shops, bus depots
CertificationsOperational management, process improvement certifications (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma)ASE certifications, mechanical or technical certifications

While Bus Operational Excellence focuses on improving overall bus service efficiency and quality through process improvements, Bus Maintenance Technicians handle the hands-on repairs and maintenance of buses. Both roles are essential in the transit industry but differ in their core responsibilities and skill sets.

What are popular job titles related to Bus Operational Excellence jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Bus Operational Excellence jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bus Operational Excellence jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Operational Excellence jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Bus Operational Excellence jobs near you

Operations Manager

Illinois Central School Bus

Palatine, IL • On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

If you're looking for a career that will give you a strong sense of pride and purpose, this is the job for you. Getting over 1,000,000 children safely to and from school every day is one of the most important jobs you will ever have. Come work for North America Central where your skills are valued, and your contribution appreciated.
Job Purpose
Provide daily leadership and management of one or more school bus facilities to ensure successful revenue contract fulfillment. This role is responsible for delivering exceptional customer service, maintaining a strong safety culture, fostering positive employee relations, and controlling costs. The Division Manager serves as the site safety leader, accountable for safety performance and results.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Performance
  • Lead daily operations to ensure safe, reliable, and on-time service
  • Use Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive accountability and continuous improvement
  • Ensure passenger well-being, including safe pick-up and drop-off procedures, placards, and student management
  • Ensure adequate driver staffing and effective processes to cover absenteeism
  • Serve as the primary liaison with contracted customers and maintain strong client relationships
  • Attend School Board meetings as required

Financial & Contract Management
  • Oversee revenue contract administration and compliance
  • Accountable for location profit and loss, including monitoring monthly variances and developing action plans
  • Participate in budget and forecast development
  • Oversee financial operations, including:
    • Customer billing and collections
    • Labor costs (revenue and non-revenue)
    • Fuel and maintenance expenses
    • Capital purchase recommendations and justifications
  • Oversee time and attendance tracking for hourly staff and drivers, including overtime
  • Develop and manage route labor standards

People & HR Management
  • Oversee hiring, coaching, performance management, and terminations
  • Assist with HR matters, labor relations, investigations, and employee relations processes
  • Promote a respectful, professional, and safety-focused workplace culture

Safety, Compliance & Asset Management
  • Ensure compliance with all Company Safety Policies and Procedures
  • Maintain compliance with DOT, federal, state, and local regulations
  • Ensure driver credentialing and licensing compliance
  • Oversee vehicle usage, inspections, certifications, and efficient use of spare buses
  • Ensure compliance with company maintenance policies and procedures
  • Manage ancillary equipment systems, including cameras, Zonar, Child Checkmate, crossing gates, radios, and GPS
  • Ensure facilities are properly maintained in compliance with OSHA and ADA requirements, providing a secure, clean, and safe environment
  • Ensure timely and accurate submissions to Corporate departments

Minimum Education & Certifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • College degree preferred
  • CDL required

Requirements & Expectations
  • Minimum three (3) years of experience in the transportation industry
  • Managerial experience preferred
  • Strong verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work early morning hours as required by operations
  • Maintain a professional and respectful demeanor with employees, customers, and the public
  • Dress in a professional and appropriate manner for a business environment
  • Perform all job duties safely, adhering to OSHA guidelines and applicable federal and state laws
  • Follow all company policies and procedures
  • Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office
  • Ability to use or learn internet-based systems, additional required programs, and office equipment (phones, fax machines, and other electronic devices)

Why Join Us?
  • Lead a mission-driven operation supporting students and communities
  • Play a key role in safety leadership and operational excellence
  • Opportunity to impact financial performance and team development
  • Stable, purpose-driven industry with growth potential

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions, it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.
North America Central School Bus is an EEO/AA employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.

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