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Bus Operator Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Transdev

Bus Driver

Merced, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Bus Operator We are currently looking for experienced Bus Drivers to join our elite team in Merced, CA . As a key member of our YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) you will be ...

Transdev

Bus Driver

Merced, CA

$22 - $25/hr

Bus Operator We are currently looking for experienced Bus Drivers to join our elite team in Merced, CA . As a key member of our YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) you will be ...

Weaver Union School District

Bus Driver

Merced, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Job Title Under the direction of the Director of Transportation, drive a school bus to transport students safely and efficiently to an assigned location on a designated route; perform regular safety ...

El Nido Elementary

Substitute Bus Driver

El Nido, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Drive bus on designated routes, maintaining good order among students in accordance with district policies. Maintain required records. Minimum qualifications: Successful completion of District pre ...

El Nido Elementary

Substitute Bus Driver

El Nido, CA · On-site

$22.07 - $29.29/hr

Drive bus on designated routes, maintaining good order among students in accordance with district policies. Maintain required records. Minimum qualifications: Successful completion of District pre ...

Transdev

Bus Driver - Part-Time

Merced, CA · On-site

$22.34 - $34.20/hr

Bus Driver - Part-Time We are currently on the lookout for Bus Drivers to join our elite team in ... As an operator and global integrator of mobility, we are driven by our purpose. Transdev - the ...

Weaver Union School District

Bus Driver #240026

Merced, CA · On-site

$24.54 - $31.95/hr

Job Summary Under the direction of the the Director of Transportation, drive a school bus to transport students safely and efficiently to an assigned location on a designated route; perform regular ...

Transdev

Bus Driver - Part-Time

Merced, CA

$22.34 - $34.20/hr

Bus Driver - Part-Time We are currently on the lookout for Bus Drivers to join our elite team in ... As an operator and global integrator of mobility, we are driven by our purpose. Transdev - the ...

First Student

Experienced School Bus Driver

Newman, CA · On-site

$24 - $30.50/hr

School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications * Hourly Rate : $24.00 - $30.50 per hour * Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance or coverage options * 401(k) ...

First Student

Experienced School Bus Driver

Newman, CA

$24 - $30.50/hr

Now Hiring Part Time Experienced School Bus Drivers - Newman, CA 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 ...

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All JobsBus Operator JobsBus Operator Jobs in Merced, CA

Bus Operator information

See Merced, CA salary details

$13

$23

$31

How much do bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operator in Merced, CA is $23.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $25.91 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.

More about Bus Operator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Bus Operator jobs in Merced, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Bus Operator jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Operator jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Bus Operator jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Bus Operator job openings:

Bus Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Operator job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,226 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

SCHOOL BUS OPERATOR #650115 - WITH HEALTH BENEFITS

Atwater Elementary School District

Atwater, CA • On-site

$22.96 - $32.55/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
Under general direction, transport students to and from school within designated routes while ensuring the safety of the student passengers. Receive supervision from the Director of Support Services and/or designee within a broad framework of standard operating policies and procedures. Transport students for special event trips; perform daily inspection of bus or other transportation equipment; operate school bus in a safe manner
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Certificate Copy (Valid Medical Certificate approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles or the Federal Highway Administration of the U.S Department of Transportation)
  • Certification (California School Bus Driver Certificate)
  • CPR/First Aid Certification (First Aid Certificate issued by the American Red Cross or the California Highway Patrol)
  • DMV Printout (A valid Class B California Driver's License with evidence of appropriate insurance according to DMV regulations)
  • Driver's License Copy (Class B California Driver's License)

Comments and Other Information
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL RECEIVE THE FULL INSURANCE CAP OF $16,000
FMCSA Clearinghouse Registration Notice to Applicants: This position is considered a safety sensitive position by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Effective January 6, 2020, any applicant who wishes to be considered for this position must be registered with the FMCSA Clearinghouse. Regulations require Atwater Elementary School District to perform a full query of any individual prior to that person being hired into a safety sensitive position. Regulations also require applicants to provide consent for the full query. Consent for the full query can only be provided via the online Clearinghouse by individuals registered with the Clearinghouse.
For more information on the Clearinghouse or to register, please visit: https://clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov/.
The Governing Board is committed to providing equal opportunity for all individuals in district programs and activities. District programs, activities, and practices shall be free from unlawful discrimination against an individual or group based on one, or a combination of two or more, protected characteristics, which include, but may not be limited to, race or ethnicity; color; ethnic group identification; nationality; national origin; immigration status; sex; sexual orientation; sex stereotypes; gender; gender identity; gender expression; religion; religious creed; age; disability; medical condition; genetic information; pregnancy, false pregnancy, childbirth, termination of pregnancy, or related conditions or recovery; reproductive health decision-making; breastfeeding or related medical conditions; parental, marital, and family status; and veteran or military status; a perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.

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