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Bus Operator Trainee Jobs in Landover, MD (NOW HIRING)

Transportation Services

School Bus Driver

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$24.36 - $29.95/hr

You will be hired on as a casual bus driver trainee; no benefits will be included throughout the ... operating condition of the vehicle and comply with mandated guidelines. * Advises students and ...

WeDriveU

Non-CDL Paratransit Driver

Springfield, VA · On-site

$19/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 ...

All JobsBus Operator JobsBus Operator Trainee JobsBus Operator Trainee Jobs in Landover, MD

Bus Operator Trainee information

See Landover, MD salary details

$25.6K

$43.6K

$63.6K

How much do bus operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for bus operator trainee in Landover, MD is $43,630.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,100.00 and $51,100.00 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 cities near Landover, MD are hiring for Bus Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Landover, MD with the most Bus Operator Trainee job openings:

Bus Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Operator Trainee job openings in Landover, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,630 per year, or $21 per hour.

School Bus Driver

Transportation Services

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$24.36 - $29.95/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

School Bus Driver

The School Bus Driver transports students over scheduled routes and/or to/from special excursions; ensures vehicle is in safe operating condition; and ensures safety of students during transport, loading and unloading from buses. This Support position reports to the Transportation Supervisor. Paid training program includes CDL certification. Outstanding benefits program includes health insurance and Virginia Retirement System for full-time employees.

Please note: If you do not currently hold a CDL license and are selected for employment, you will be placed on Step 1, Grade 3 of the Transportation Salary Scale ($24.36/hour) for your duration of training. Upon completion/passing the required CDL certification course, your step placement will be re-evaluated based on your commercial driving experience. If you have no additional commercial driving experience, you will be placed on Step 2, Grade 3 of the Transportation Salary Scale. You will be hired on as a casual bus driver trainee; no benefits will be included throughout the training period.

Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent preferred, not required.
  • Job related experience desired. Good work history and driving record required.
  • Valid Class "B" Commercial Driver's License with Passenger and School Bus Endorsements
  • CDL 3rd party examiner (DMV)
  • CPR/First Aid Certificate Recommended
  • SET (State Efficient Transport) Certification Behavior Intervention Training
Essential Functions
  • Transports passengers over scheduled routes to and from school and/or field trips in a safe and timely manner.
  • Monitors students and other passengers during transit to maintain safety and follow district policy.
  • Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspections (e.g. fluid levels, tire pressure, exterior condition, mirrors, etc.) to ensure the safe operating condition of the vehicle and comply with mandated guidelines.
  • Advises students and other passengers of appropriate behavior to reinforce regulations and maintain passenger safety.
  • Assesses incidents, complaints, accidents and/or potential emergency situations (e.g. road hazards, medical emergencies, accidents, etc.) and resolves and/or recommends a resolution to the situation.
  • Assists students and other passengers in safe loading and unloading from buses during both emergency situations and normal transport.
  • Attends meetings, classroom and behind the wheel training, safety meetings, in service, administrative conferences, etc. to maintain skills and meet the certificate requirements of a school bus driver.
  • Conducts emergency evacuation drills to ensure efficiency of procedures and comply with mandated requirements.
  • Prepares documents and reports (e.g. monthly manifest, incident/accident reports, inspections records, passenger misconduct, mileage logs, student counts, route description updates, maintenance orders, logs, etc.).
  • Reports observations and/or incidents (e.g. discipline, inappropriate social behavior, etc.) to appropriate personnel.
  • Responds to inquiries (e.g. students, parents, other school personnel, etc.) to provide information and/or direction.
  • Secures students as assigned (e.g. car seats, wheelchairs, restraints, etc.) to ensure their safety during transport.
  • Assists children with disabilities on and off the bus.
  • Assists with snow removal on/around buses to ensure buses maintain established schedules.
  • Cleans assigned vehicles, both interior and exterior to ensure safety, appearance, and sanitation of vehicle.
  • Lifts student and/or equipment (e.g. wheelchairs, car seats, restraints, seat belts, etc.) to position or reposition students as appropriate.
  • Performs other related duties, as assigned, to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.
Compensation
  • $24.36 to $29.95 an hour, determined by The ACPS Transportation Salary Scale
Clearances
  • Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.
  • Tuberculosis Skin Test.
  • Public Health Compliance - Must follow safety and health protocols.

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