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Bus Operator Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Must maintain at all times during employment an unrestricted motor vehicle operator's license, a school bus permit as required by state and federal laws, and a satisfactory driving record that meets ...

CLASSIFIED_School_Bus/Van Driver_Substitute

Gretna, NE · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Must maintain at all times during employment an unrestricted motor vehicle operator's license, a school bus permit as required by state and federal laws, and a satisfactory driving record that meets ...

School Bus Driver

Elkhorn, NE · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Harlow's School Bus Service BENEFITS OFFERED: * NO CDL? NO PROBLEM! * Paid training offered to obtain CDL license for qualified applicants! * Up to $2000 Sign On Bonus Starting Pay: $26.00-$29.00 hr ...

Transportation - Bus Driver

Bellevue, NE · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Applications are being accepted for part time Bus Drivers with possible opportunities for full time ... The vehicle must be operated in accordance with the laws of the state and the policies, regulations ...

Must maintain at all times during employment an unrestricted motor vehicle operator's license, a school bus permit as required by state and federal laws, and a satisfactory driving record that meets ...

Bus Driver - PTT

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

... operating those vehicles used to transport passengers on specified routes to local or distant ... Fill up the bus with gasoline prior to returning to campus and do a post-trip inspection on the bus ...

... operating those vehicles used to transport passengers on specified routes to local or distant ... Fill up the bus with gasoline prior to returning to campus and do a post-trip inspection on the bus ...

Bus Drivers

Fort Calhoun, NE · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Substitute and/or Activity Bus Drivers: CDL license, drug testing, State training and a physical are required. Contact Chris Eastman at ceastman@ftcpioneers.org with questions. This position has ...

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Bus Operator information

See Nebraska salary details

$12

$21

$28

How much do bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operator in Nebraska is $21.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bus operator?

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.

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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Bus Operator jobs in Nebraska?

For Bus Operator jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Bus Operator jobs in NE?

For Bus Operator jobs in NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Bus Operator job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,444 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

CLASSIFIED_School_Bus/Van Driver

BUS BARN

Gretna, NE • On-site

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Bus/Van Driver

It is the policy of Gretna Public Schools to not discriminate on the basis of sex, disability, race, color, religion, veteran status, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, or other protected status in its educational programs, admission policies, employment policies or other administered programs. Persons requiring accommodations to apply and/or be considered for positions are asked to make their request to the Superintendent.

Department: Transportation Education Level and Certification: High school degree or GED. Must maintain at all times during employment an unrestricted motor vehicle operator's license, a school bus permit as required by state and federal laws, and a satisfactory driving record that meets requirements of Board policy. Reports To: Director of Transportation/Principal Performance Responsibilities and Job Tasks

  • Follow safety rules as students board and exit buses or cross streets near bus stops.
  • Comply with traffic regulations to operate vehicles in a safe and courteous manner.
  • Check the condition of vehicle's tires, brakes, windshield wipers, lights, oil, fuel, water, and safety equipment to ensure that everything is in working order (pre- and post-inspections).
  • Maintain order among students during trips to ensure safety.
  • Pick up and drop off students at regularly scheduled neighborhood locations, following strict time schedules.
  • Report any bus malfunctions or needed repairs.
  • Drive gasoline, diesel, or electrically powered multi-passenger vehicles to transport students between neighborhoods, schools, and school activities.
  • Prepare and submit reports that may include the number of passengers or trips, hours worked, mileage, fuel consumption, and student behavior.
  • Keep bus interiors clean for passengers.
  • Read maps and follow written and verbal geographic directions.
  • Report delays, accidents, or other traffic and transportation situations, using telephones or mobile two-way radios.
  • Regulate heating, lighting, and ventilation systems for passenger comfort.
  • Escort small children across roads and highways if a responsible adult remains in the vehicle.
  • Make minor repairs to vehicles.
  • Perform first aid as necessary for the purpose of meeting the immediate health care needs of passengers.
  • Adhere to the transportation regulations of the Nebraska Department of Education.
  • Compliance with all Department of Transportation standards.
  • Serve as a role model to all students.
  • Serve as a positive member of the community in a way that does not negatively affect the District's reputation or image in the community.
  • Refrain from engaging in conduct that interferes with the operations of the District, including the education of students.
  • Develop and maintain a positive and professional working relationship with other staff and administration.
  • Adhere to all District policies, rules, regulations, and supervisory directives.
  • Maintain confidentiality of information concerning staff, students, and parents in accordance with law and District rules.
  • Adhere to the code of ethics of the District and the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE Rule 27).

FLSA Exempt Status: Non-exempt. Essential Functions: The essential functions of the Bus Driver position include: (1) regular, dependable in-person attendance on the job; (2) the ability to perform the identified tasks and performance responsibilities which require effective teaching and communication skills; and (3) the ability to perform the following identified physical requirements. At-Will Position. This position is an "at-will" position and may be terminated, with or without cause, at any time in the sole discretion of the Superintendent or Superintendent's designee.

Physical Requirements

Stamina

1. Sitting

2. Walking

3. Standing

4. Sprinting/Running

Flexibility

5. Bending or twisting at the neck more than the average person

6. Bending or twisting at the trunk more than the average person

7. Squatting/Stooping/Kneeling

8. Reaching above the head

9. Reaching forward

10. Repeating the same hand, arm or finger motion many times (For example: typing, data entry, etc.)

Activities

11. Climbing (on ladders, into large trucks/vehicles, etc.)

12. Hand/grip strength

13. Driving on the job

14. Typing non-stop

Use of Arms and Hands

15. Manual dexterity (using a wrench or screwing a lid on a jar)

16. Finger dexterity (typing or putting a nut on a bolt)

Lifting Requirements

17. Lifting up to 10 pounds (Mark all that apply)

Floor to waist

Waist to shoulder

Shoulder to overhead

18. Lifting 11 to 25 pounds (Mark all that apply)

Floor to waist

Waist to shoulder

Shoulder to overhead

19. Lifting 26 to 50 pounds (Mark all that apply)

Floor to waist

Waist to shoulder

Shoulder to overhead

20. Lifting 51 to 75 pounds (Mark all that apply)

Floor to waist

Waist to shoulder

Shoulder to overhead

21. Lifting 76 plus pounds (Mark all that apply)

Floor to waist

Waist to shoulder

Shoulder to overhead

22. Can load/items weighing over 50 pounds that are lifted or carried be shared, or reduced into smaller loads?

Pushing/Pulling

23. 25 to 50 pounds

24. 51 to 75 pounds

25. 76 to 90 pounds

26. Over 90 pounds

Carrying

27. 10 to 25 pounds

28. 26 to 50 pounds

29. 51 to 75 pounds

30. 76 to 90 pounds

31. Over 90 pounds