ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Bus Operator Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

City of Lincoln/Lancaster County

Bus Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$24.42 - $30.52/hr

Bus Operators are essential to contributing to Lincoln's transportation options and they spend their careers connecting with the community while helping the public get to where they need to be. Bus ...

Harlows School Bus Service

School Bus Driver

Elkhorn, NE · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Harlow's School Bus Service Up to $2000 Sign On Bonus Starting Pay: $25.00-$28.00 hr. - DOE Shift Options: 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Don't see hours that fit your schedule? We also offer ...

Southeast Community College

Bus Driver - PTT

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$16 - $22/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 ...

Souteast Community College

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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Omaha, NE · On-site

$26/hr

As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

South Sioux City, NE · On-site

$24/hr

School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications * Hourly Rate : $24 per hour * Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Scottsbluff, NE · On-site

$19.25/hr

School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications * Hourly Rate : $19.25 per hour * Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Scottsbluff, NE · On-site

$19.25/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers - Scottsbluff, NE As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Omaha, NE · On-site

$26/hr

As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Omaha, NE · On-site

$26/hr

As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

South Sioux City, NE · On-site

$24/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers - South Sioux City, NE As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Scottsbluff, NE · On-site

$19.25/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers - Scottsbluff, NE As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBus Operator JobsBus Operator Jobs in Nebraska

Bus Operator information

See Nebraska salary details

$12

$21

$28

How much do bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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 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.
More about Bus Operator jobs
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 job categories do people searching Bus Operator jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Operator jobs in Nebraska 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:
Bus Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Operator job openings in Nebraska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 71% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,444 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Bus Operator

City of Lincoln/Lancaster County

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$24.42 - $30.52/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Posting Information Next Stop, You're Hired. Join Lincoln's transit system as a StarTran Bus Operator and start enjoying the best view of the city. Bus Operators are essential to contributing to Lincoln's transportation options and they spend their careers connecting with the community while helping the public get to where they need to be.

Bus Operators offer professional and dependable service to riders who enjoy Lincoln's buses, paratransit, and on-demand services. Bus Operators work independently while always contributing to the team environment. Bus operators will need to bend, flex, push, and pull a wheelchair or other mobility device in order to assist passengers.

Individuals who are bilingual are encouraged to apply. StarTran is one of 11 divisions within the City of Lincoln Transportation and Utilities (LTU) Department. The LTU team provides transit, transportation and utilities services year-round.

Nearly 600 team members make up LTU. We fuel the importance of building relationships within our divisions, department and with our partners. We value our team's forward-thinking and pride ourselves on our good stewardship of our environment.

We celebrate our individual strengths that in turn, take our teams to new levels of accomplishment. We commit ourselves to offering additional training opportunities and develop a variety of paths for professional job growth. Our teammates enjoy benefits that include but are not limited to a retirement match, paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, and health, dental, and vision benefits.

Join the largest department at the City of Lincoln today. We are excited to enhance our community's quality of life together. Possession of valid NE commercial driver's license is required, or ability to obtain CDL within 60 days of employment.

All driving records will be checked to meet standards through the Department of Motor Vehicles. NOTE: Serious driving convictions will be cause for rejection if convicted within the last three (3) years. Other driving record factors will be considered on an individual basis.

Must be able to pass Federal Department of Transportation physical standards. Must comply with the requirements of the established policies when working with passengers. Performs all actions necessary to comply with StarTran's reporting procedures.

Uses two-way radio to communicate with dispatcher. THIS SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION IS SUBJECT TO MANDATORY DRUG TESTING POLICIES AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT. Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years of age and meet such driving record and physical requirements as established by the City of Lincoln.

Commercial Learner's Permit required at start date. Training, including Entry Level Driver Training, will be provided prior to testing for a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Hours: Full Time; Monday through Saturday; Hours to be scheduled.

Hours vary: Morning, Day, Evening, and Split Shift opportunities available. Mandatory overtime will be required at times. Pay: $24.42 - $30.52 Hourly $1,953.60 - $2,441.60 Biweekly $50,793.60 - $63,481.60 Annually Will reimburse for Commercial Driver's License test/training for CDL Multiple openings and eligibility list

Take a look at what it is like to be a part of Lincoln's transit team. For more detailed benefits information, please visit https://www.nextstoplnk.com/

Apply