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Bus Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

School Bus Driver

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16.75/hr

The School Bus Driver is responsible for safely operating the state vehicle according to a set daily schedule. He/she must ensure that the vehicle is in good operating condition at all times, pick up ...

... in a safe operating condition; and ensuring safety of students during transport, loading and ... Monitors bus operations, route conditions and rider activities for the purpose of ensuring the ...

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BUS STOP MAINTENANCE CREW MEMBER SALARY: $16.00/hr ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS : Picking up trash from the ... operated by RATP Dev/Tucson Transit Management, LLC (TTM) and under contract with the City of ...

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Bus Operator information

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How much do bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operator in Arizona is $20.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

Bus operators must have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and air brake endorsements. Disqualifications include a history of serious traffic violations, DUI or drug offenses, certain medical conditions that impair driving ability, and a criminal record that raises safety concerns. Additionally, a clean driving record and passing background checks are typically required for employment.

What is the difference between Bus Operator vs Bus Driver?

AspectBus OperatorBus Driver
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), possibly passenger endorsementCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit vehicles, school buses, tour busesPublic transit, school buses, charter services
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, schools, private companiesTransit agencies, schools, private operators
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both Bus Operators and Bus Drivers require similar licenses and work in transit environments. The term 'Bus Operator' often emphasizes the operational and customer service aspects, while 'Bus Driver' is a more general term. They are frequently used interchangeably, but 'Bus Operator' may imply a broader role including safety checks and route management.

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

To thrive as a Bus Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a safe driving record, and thorough knowledge of traffic laws and routes. Familiarity with vehicle inspection checklists, fare collection systems, and GPS navigation tools is typically required. Strong customer service, patience, and problem-solving skills help you manage passenger interactions and unexpected situations. These competencies ensure safe, efficient transportation and a positive experience for all passengers.

What are Bus Operators?

Bus Operators are professionals responsible for driving buses to transport passengers along designated routes. They ensure the safety of all riders, adhere to traffic laws, and follow schedules to maintain timely service. In addition to driving, Bus Operators assist passengers with boarding and disembarking, answer questions, and sometimes handle fare collection. They play a crucial role in public transportation systems, providing reliable and courteous service to the community.

Is a CDL required to be a bus operator?

Yes, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is typically required for bus operators, especially when driving vehicles that seat more than 16 passengers. Obtaining a CDL involves passing written and skills tests, and drivers may need to meet specific medical and background requirements depending on the jurisdiction.

What is the top pay for a bus operator?

The top pay for a bus operator varies by location and experience but can reach around $25 to $30 per hour or higher in some regions. Experienced operators with seniority or specialized routes may earn higher wages, and benefits such as health insurance and retirement are often included in compensation packages.

What are some common challenges faced by Bus Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Bus Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable traffic conditions, adhering to strict schedules, and ensuring passenger safety and comfort. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential for handling these situations. Many transit agencies provide ongoing training and support to help operators navigate these challenges and improve their customer service skills.

How much do NYC bus operators make a year?

Bus operators typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. In many cases, they receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and the job often requires a commercial driver's license and safety training.
What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Operator jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Bus Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Bus Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Bus Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Operator jobs in AZ? For Bus Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Bus Operator job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, 71% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,439 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
School Bus Driver

$16.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago


State Of Arizona rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 50 rated states


Job description

School Bus Driver

Apply now Job No: 541562
Work Type: Part-time
Location: TUCSON
Categories: Automotive/Fleet, Facilities Management/Maintainence/Construction/Operations

ARIZONA STATE SCHOOLS FOR THE DEAF AND THE BLIND ASDB serves over 2,000 children who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, hard of hearing or deafblind from birth to grade 12
School Bus Driver
Job Location:
Address: 11620 N Copper Spring Trail  Oro Valley, AZ 85737
Posting Details:
Salary: $16.75 
Grade: 5
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Job Summary:

ASDB Drivers are tasked with the vital responsibility of protecting our students on their way to and from school. Drivers make sure that students get to school and back home safely every day. They are required to know their students and be aware of their different disabilities to make their transportation times as comfortable and safe as possible. They are the first school workers to greet students in the morning and the last to wave goodbye to them in the afternoon.
SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION:
This position requires pre-employment drug testing and is subject to random drug testing and successful results for the duration of employment.
CDL P & S and DPS certified. CDL Training provided.
Must be able to obtain a Motor Vehicle Report, pass a physical, drug screen, and PPT test. 
The School Bus Driver is responsible for safely operating the state vehicle according to a set daily schedule. He/she must ensure that the vehicle is in good operating condition at all times, pick up and drop off students as per the schedule, maintain order and security in the vehicle, and obey all laws, regulations, and rules of conduct. The School Bus Driver must also deal with residents and members of the public courteously and respectfully. This includes receiving complaints about schedules and levels, and the quality of service.
The School Bus Driver must make note of and report on any such complaints and respond courteously and respectfully. The School Bus Driver must safely operate the state vehicle. Failure to ensure the safe passage of students to and from school may result in serious liabilities for the School. Operating in an unsafe manner may result in injury or even the loss of life, which would have tragic consequences for the community as a whole.
Position is responsible for operating a yellow school bus and transporting school-aged children and other authorized personnel safely and efficiently over specified routes to and from schools and various activities. Position conducts pre-trip/post-trip inspections, observes safety regulations and policies, enforces student discipline in the vehicle, and performs related work.

Job Duties:

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
-Safely transport students according to time schedules
-Maintain logs on attendance, repairs, and/or changes to routes
-Performs daily pre-trip inspections per licensing requirements
-Individual positions may be responsible for some or all of the listed duties and/or other related duties
-Recognize a problem in the operation of a school bus and prepare a report

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):

-Policies, procedures, and programs of the immediate work unit
-Principles and practices of administration and management
-Agency or program rules, regulations, and operating procedures
-Arizona rules/regulations related to pupil transportation.
-Reading of gauges and indicators of a vehicle, and preparing a report.
-CPR, First Aid, and bus evacuation procedures.
-Operate the assigned vehicle in a safe manner and by the statutes of Arizona
-Maintain a courteous and professional manner
-Follow the scheduled route within the allotted timeline.
-Communicate information and ideas effectively so others will understand.

Selective Preference(s):

-Must have a minimum of 2 years of driving experience.
-Be prepared to participate in the ASL classes provided by the Agency
-Be prepared to learn a vocabulary of frequently used words to communicate in ASL with students and staff.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

-This position requires pre-employment drug testing and is subject to random drug testing for the duration of employment.
-Must be able to pass FBI and State background check or Fingerprint Clearance Card as position requires by policy or Statute

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Benefits:

Benefit-eligible employees have a variety of choices for medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, supplemental, and dependent life insurance. Offered plans provide exceptional value to our employees and their eligible dependents. Employees have 31 days from the effective date of hire to elect coverage. Elected benefits could start as early as 2 weeks after hire. Benefit-eligible employees are automatically covered for basic life, non-smokers, accidental death and dismemberment, and seat belt insurance. Benefit Options also offer Employee Self-Service, Wellness, Tuition Discount, Travel Reduction, Auto & Home Insurance, and Purchase Discount Programs.

By providing the option of a full-time or part-time remote work schedule, employees enjoy improved work/life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and are more productive. Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement or right. An agency may terminate a remote work agreement at its discretion.

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

Retirement:

Benefit-eligible employees are automatically enrolled in the State's retirement plan and long-term disability (LTD) program. Enrollment is mandatory and is subject to a 26-week waiting period before initial enrollment. Employees may also choose to participate in a deferred compensation program to take advantage of tax-deferred retirement investments.

Contact Us:

For more information, contact the Recruiter at: HumanResources.Recruitment@asdb.az.gov
520.770.3714

Advertised: 09 Jun 2026 US Mountain Standard Time
Applications close:

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About State of Arizona

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of Arizona is not a conventional company, but the governmental structure presiding over the U.S. state of Arizona, headquartered in Phoenix, AZ. The State of Arizona operates within the industry of government administration and public services across various sectors including education, health, public safety, transportation, and economic services. These services are aimed to ensure the security, prosperity, and well-being of the Arizona citizens and communities. Founded on February 14, 1912, when Arizona became the 48th state to join the Union, the State of Arizona is committed to providing people-centric, efficient, and effective government. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for all Arizonans by providing a secure environment and advancing the state's economy.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US

Year founded

1912