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Bus Operator Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Hobart, IN · On-site

$22.50/hr

FLSA Status Non-Exempt Pay Rates * Full-Time Driver: $22.50/hour * CDL Driver Trainee: $18.00/hour ... Specialized routes may require operating wheelchair lift equipment and securing mobility devices ...

Bus Driver

Hobart, IN · On-site

$22.50/hr

FLSA Status Non-Exempt Pay Rates * Full-Time Driver: $22.50/hour * CDL Driver Trainee: $18.00/hour ... Specialized routes may require operating wheelchair lift equipment and securing mobility devices ...

FLSA Status Non-Exempt Pay Rates * Full-Time Driver: $22.50/hour * CDL Driver Trainee: $18.00/hour ... Specialized routes may require operating wheelchair lift equipment and securing mobility devices ...

Substitute Bus Driver

Hobart, IN · On-site

$21.50/hr

... CDL Driver Trainees while obtaining the required CDL and endorsements. Salary and benefits as ... Specialized routes may require operating wheelchair lift equipment and securing mobility devices ...

Substitute Bus Driver

Hobart, IN · On-site

$21.50/hr

... CDL Driver Trainees while obtaining the required CDL and endorsements. Salary and benefits as ... Specialized routes may require operating wheelchair lift equipment and securing mobility devices ...

Substitute Bus Driver

Hobart, IN · On-site

$21.50/hr

... CDL Driver Trainees while obtaining the required CDL and endorsements. Salary and benefits as ... Specialized routes may require operating wheelchair lift equipment and securing mobility devices ...

Shuttle Bus Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.43/hr

Demonstrates and abides by Aleut Core Values and operating principles. * Transports students by bus ... Effectively relate to the trainee population. Ability to fluently read and write English. The ...

Demonstrates and abides by Aleut Core Values and operating principles. * Transports students by bus ... Effectively relate to the trainee population. Ability to fluently read and write English. The ...

Shuttle Bus Driver

Chicago, IL

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Demonstrates and abides by Aleut Core Values and operating principles. * Transports students by bus ... Effectively relate to the trainee population. Ability to fluently read and write English. The ...

Shuttle Bus Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.43/hr

Demonstrates and abides by Aleut Core Values and operating principles. * Transports students by bus ... Effectively relate to the trainee population. Ability to fluently read and write English. The ...

Shuttle Bus Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.43/hr

Demonstrates and abides by Aleut Core Values and operating principles. * Transports students by bus ... Effectively relate to the trainee population. Ability to fluently read and write English. The ...

Transit CDL Driver

Niles, IL · On-site

$25/hr

... bus and rail passengers on four continents. Visit wedriveu.com to learn more about our company ... Provides safe and reliable transportation service to passengers by operating position specific ...

Transit CDL Driver

Niles, IL · On-site

$25/hr

... bus and rail passengers on four continents. Visit wedriveu.com to learn more about our company ... Provides safe and reliable transportation service to passengers by operating position specific ...

Safety Trainer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

The recruiter will be responsible to identify and recruit potential drivers and trainees to our ... Ability to drive a school bus and other district vehicles safely and efficiently. * Develop a ...

... bus and rail passengers on four continents. Visit wedriveu.com to learn more about our company ... Provides safe and reliable transportation service to passengers by operating position specific ...

Demonstrates and abides by Aleut Core Values and operating principles. * Enforces all authorized ... Ability to obtain a bus driver's license. * Ability to effectively relate to the trainee population.

Demonstrates and abides by Aleut Core Values and operating principles. * Enforces all authorized ... Ability to obtain a bus driver's license. * Ability to effectively relate to the trainee population.

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Showing results 1-20

Bus Operator Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$26.3K

$44.8K

$65.4K

How much do bus operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for bus operator trainee in Chicago, IL is $44,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $52,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bus operator trainee?

Bus Operator Trainees are individuals who are in the process of learning how to safely and efficiently operate public transit buses. They undergo specialized training that includes classroom instruction, hands-on driving practice, and learning customer service skills. The goal is to prepare them for the responsibility of transporting passengers, adhering to routes and schedules, and ensuring the safety and comfort of riders. Once training is complete and all requirements are met, trainees can become full-fledged bus operators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bus operator trainee?

To thrive as a Bus Operator Trainee, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with fare collection systems, route navigation tools, and basic vehicle inspection procedures is typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and strong communication skills help build rapport with passengers and handle stressful situations. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensuring passenger safety, maintaining reliable service, and representing the transit agency professionally.

What are some common challenges bus operator trainees face during the training period?

Bus Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as mastering large vehicle handling, learning complex route navigation, and adapting to strict schedules. Additionally, trainees need to quickly develop strong customer service skills to handle diverse passenger situations and maintain safety standards. Supportive trainers, hands-on practice, and constructive feedback are typically provided to help overcome these challenges and ensure trainees are well-prepared for independent operation.

What is the difference between Bus Operator Trainee vs Bus Driver?

AspectBus Operator TraineeBus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), training programCDL, experience driving buses
Work EnvironmentTraining sessions, supervised drivingOperating buses independently
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, private bus companiesPublic transit, charter services, school buses
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level roles, training processJob responsibilities, experience requirements

The main difference is that a Bus Operator Trainee is in training and gaining experience, while a Bus Driver has completed training and is actively operating buses independently. The trainee role focuses on learning and certification, whereas the bus driver role involves actual driving duties in the industry.

How easy is it to become a bus operator trainee?

Becoming a bus operator trainee typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and passing a background check. Candidates often need to complete a training program that covers safety, customer service, and vehicle operation, which can last from a few weeks to several months depending on the employer.

How to become a bus operator trainee?

To become a bus operator trainee, applicants typically need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and must pass a background check and drug screening. They often undergo a training program that includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel practice before becoming fully licensed bus operators.

What job categories do people searching Bus Operator Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Operator Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Bus Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Bus Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Bus Operator Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,843 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

$22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Bus Driver 
School City of Hobart 

Seeking Bus Drivers for the School City of Hobart. Positions are filled on an as-needed basis. 

Position Summary

To facilitate the transportation of students to and from school, as well as related activities, in a prompt and safe manner. The Bus Driver safely operates a school bus over designated routes and on activity trips, completes required bus inspections, supports student safety and behavior expectations, and communicates timely updates to dispatch/supervisors.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate a school bus safely over assigned routes and activity trips, loading and unloading students at designated stops.
  • Follow all applicable federal/state regulations and district procedures, including railroad crossing, student loading/unloading, and use of required warning devices and safety equipment.
  • Conduct required pre-trip and post-trip inspections; report mechanical concerns promptly and complete required documentation.
  • Maintain a clean, orderly bus interior and refuel as needed to ensure readiness for daily service.
  • Support student safety and behavior expectations in accordance with district policy; communicate incidents through established channels.
  • Complete required child-check procedures after routes and trips to ensure no child is left on the bus.
  • Participate in required training, safety drills, and ongoing professional development.

Qualifications

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform the essential functions of the position.

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • At least 21 years old.
  • Valid Indiana driver's license.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B with required endorsements (Passenger, School Bus, and Air Brake), as required by the position.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain the Indiana State school bus driver certification ("yellow card"), as required.
  • Ability to meet applicable medical/physical qualification requirements for commercial driving, including required physical examinations and/or medical certification.
  • Ability to participate in required drug and alcohol testing programs (e.g., pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion), as applicable.

Preferred:

  • Prior experience working as a bus driver, preferably in a school district or transporting children.

Terms of Employment

School City of Hobart is a CDL training locationqualified applicants may be hired as CDL Driver Trainees while obtaining the required CDL and endorsements. Salary and benefits as defined in the School City of Hobart Transportation Department Staff Handbook. 

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt 

Pay Rates

  • Full-Time Driver: $22.50/hour
  • CDL Driver Trainee: $18.00/hour

Benefits (eligible transportation employees)

  • Basic health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Term life insurance
  • Section 125 cafeteria plan options
  • INPRS PERF retirement eligible position
  • Sick and personal days included
  • 403(b) plan available
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available

Physical Demands 

This position requires the ability to safely operate a vehicle; enter/exit and move within the bus; perform pre-trip/post-trip inspections; assist with student loading/unloading and emergency response; and lift/carry items up to 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally. Specialized routes may require operating wheelchair lift equipment and securing mobility devices and occupant restraints, as applicable.

Work Environment 

Work is performed primarily in a school bus/transportation setting with frequent exposure to varying weather conditions, road and traffic hazards, noise, fumes/diesel exhaust, and other typical vehicle-related conditions. The position requires sustained alertness and safe operation of district vehicles while interacting with students and the public, and may include working early mornings, afternoons, evenings, and occasional trips/special routes as assigned.

Application Procedure

Please submit an online application. If you have questions about the position, contact:
Becky Rosenbaum, Director of Transportation
Email: rrosenbaum@hobart.k12.in.us
Phone: (219) 947-2413 Ext. 2


Pre-Employment Requirements

Employment is contingent upon meeting district pre-employment requirements. This includes expanded criminal history checks, expanded child protection index checks, and motor vehicle record reviews, as applicable. A CDL physical and drug screening are also required. Other pre-employment requirements may apply.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The School City of Hobart is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The School City of Hobart ensures equal employment opportunities regardless of race, creed, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation or disability. The School City of Hobart has a policy of active recruitment of qualified minority teachers and non-certified employees. Any individual needing assistance in making application for any opening should contact the Department of Human Resources.