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Bus Operator Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Academy Bus

Charter Bus Driver

West Warwick, RI · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Benefits, Sign On Bonus and PTO Available for Full Time Employees Academy is an EEO Charter Driver, Charter Bus Driver, Charter Bus Operator, Bus Driver, Bus Operator, Motorcoach Driver, Motorcoach ...

YMCA OF PAWTUCKET

Bus Driver

Pawtucket, RI

$24 - $30/hr

Bus Drivers are responsible for conducting themselves in an appropriate manner, setting an example for children, parents and co-workers by reflecting the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect ...

YMCA OF PAWTUCKET

Bus Driver

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Bus Drivers are responsible for conducting themselves in an appropriate manner, setting an example for children, parents and co-workers by reflecting the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect ...

Ocean State Transit LLC

School Bus Driver

Coventry, RI · On-site

$28.50/hr

As a school bus driver, you will have the support of a dedicated, local management team and the training needed to perform your job safely, and with care. Bus drivers are responsible for the safe ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Tiverton, RI · On-site

$25.89 - $29.12/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers- Tiverton, RI 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

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

$34/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers-Pawtucket, RI 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

School Bus Driver

Warwick, RI · On-site

$30.25/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers- Warwick, RI Strawberry Field Rd As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Portsmouth, RI · On-site

$29.12/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers- Portsmouth, RI 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

School Bus Driver

Tiverton, RI · On-site

$25.89 - $29.12/hr

School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications * Hourly Rate : $25.89- $29.12 per hour * Effective August 1, 2026: Hourly rate increases to $29.10 per hour

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Warren, RI · On-site

$29.26/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers- Warren, RI 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

Scituate, RI · On-site

$34/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers-Foster, RI 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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

North Scituate, RI · On-site

$34/hr

School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications * Hourly Rate Foster: $34.00 per hour * Training Hourly Rate: $16.00 per hour * Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Warren, RI · On-site

$29.26/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers- Warren, RI 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

School Bus Driver

North Scituate, RI · On-site

$34/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers-Foster, RI 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 ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Lincoln, RI · On-site

$34/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers- Lincoln, RI 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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsBus Operator JobsBus Operator Jobs in Rhode Island

Bus Operator information

See Rhode Island salary details

$12

$21

$29

How much do bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operator in Rhode Island is $21.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $23.99 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 Rhode Island? For Bus Operator jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Operator jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Operator jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Bus Operator jobs in RI? For Bus Operator jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Bus Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Operator job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Full Time, 75% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,650 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
Charter Bus Driver

Charter Bus Driver

Academy Bus

Providence, RI • On-site

$80K - $100K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Academy Bus rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 14 rated coach operators

Job description

Academy Bus has Charter Bus Driver positions available at our Providence area location in West Warwick, RI.

Every day is different with our unique clients which include professional and college sports teams.

$5000 SIGN ON BONUS and earn $80,000-$100,000 per year plus tips!

Shifts:

  • Full Time 
  • Part Time

Join Academy Bus, a leader in passenger transportation, and discover a career that offers:

  • Earn $80,000-$100,000 per year
  • Tips!
  • $5000 Sign On Bonus (for full-time bus driver)
  • Paid meals on overnight trips
  • Paid training
  • Paid time off
  • Holiday pay
  • Quarterly and annual safety bonus
  • Uniforms
  • New equipment
  • Electronic logs and DVIR systems
  • 24 hour maintenance and dispatch teams

Health Insurance and Benefits Offered Include:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription, and Life insurance
  • Supplemental coverages
  • 401K plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays

Bus Driver Requirements:

  • CDL
  • Passenger Endorsement
  • Airbrake Endorsement
  • Good Driving Record

*Benefits, Sign On Bonus and PTO Available for Full Time Employees

Academy is an EEO

Charter Driver, Charter Bus Driver, Charter Bus Operator, Bus Driver, Bus Operator, Motorcoach Driver, Motorcoach Operator, Motorcoach Bus Driver, Motorcoach Bus Operator.

What Academy Bus employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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