ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Bus Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Pacific Crest Bus Lines

Be Seen First

CDL Class B, Passenger Endorsement Bus Driver Needed

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Join the Pacific Crest Bus Lines Team! Why Drive for Pacific Crest Bus Lines? ✔ Competitive Pay - Paid Bi-Monthly ✔ Travel & Entertainment Discounts through Corporate Partners ✔ A Supportive ...

Catlin Gabel School

School Bus Route Driver

Portland, OR · On-site

$32/hr

Under the supervision of the Transportation Manager, the School Bus Route Driver is responsible for safely operating a school bus on assigned routes and trips. This role ensures the safe and timely ...

Blue Star Charters & Tours, Inc.

Bus Driver

Portland, OR · On-site

$21/hr

This position will be responsible for operating various types of buses to transport students ... Valid CDL - Class A or B with "p" and airbrake endorsement ( Air Brake not required for Mini-Bus ...

Apply Early

Regency Park

Community Driver (Bus Driver)

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Experience operating a large bus of sixteen or more passengers * Must have a commercial driver's license (CDL) * Preferred 2 years experience as passenger transportation driver * Previous experience ...

Apply Early

Regency Park

Community Driver (Bus Driver)

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Experience operating a large bus of sixteen or more passengers * Must have a commercial driver's license (CDL) * Preferred 2 years experience as passenger transportation driver * Previous experience ...

Oregon City School District 62

Bus Driver

Oregon City, OR · On-site

$27.51 - $38.70/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 6/2/2026 Location: Transportation Department THIS POSITION IS FOR THOSE CANDIDATES WHO POSSESS A CURRENT CDL. If you do not have a current CDL, please apply for ...

Oregon City School District 62

Bus Driver

Oregon City, OR · On-site

$27.51 - $38.70/hr

THIS POSITION IS FOR THOSE CANDIDATES WHO POSSESS A CURRENT CDL. If you do not have a current CDL, please apply for the position titled "Van Driver or CDL Bus Driver in Training". This individual is ...

Oregon Child Development Coalition

Bus Driver

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$18.94 - $23.65/hr

Assists in compliance and sustains standard of maintenance, and adheres to Agency and state regulations associated with transporting children on a school bus by: • Keeping school buses clean and ...

Oregon Child Development Coalition

Bus Driver

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$18.94 - $23.65/hr

Assists in compliance and sustains standard of maintenance, and adheres to Agency and state regulations associated with transporting children on a school bus by: • Keeping school buses clean and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBus Operator JobsBus Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Bus Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$23

$31

How much do bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operator in Portland, OR is $23.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $26.01 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 Portland, OR? For Bus Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bus Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Bus Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Bus Operator jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Bus Operator job openings:
Bus Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,434 per year, or $23.8 per hour.
CDL Class B, Passenger Endorsement Bus Driver Needed

CDL Class B, Passenger Endorsement Bus Driver Needed

Pacific Crest Bus Lines

Portland, OR • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Join the Pacific Crest Bus Lines Team!

Why Drive for Pacific Crest Bus Lines?

✔ Competitive Pay – Paid Bi-Monthly
✔ Travel & Entertainment Discounts through Corporate Partners
✔ A Supportive Team & a Job with Purpose!

Who We’re Looking For:

We're looking for experienced CDL B drivers with a Passenger Endorsement and Air Brakes.

✅ Requirements:
✔ Valid CDL B driver's license

✔ Valid DOT Medical Card
✔ Clean driving record
✔ Strong customer service skills & ability to remain calm under pressure
✔ Ability to pass a drug & alcohol screening
✔ Available at least 3 full days per week
✔ Willing to be away overnight occasionally
✔ Ability to work independently
✔ Ability to maintain a Class B CDL with Passenger Endorsement & Air Brakes

Your Role as a Route Bus Driver:

  • Perform pre-trip inspections & monitor vehicle condition
  • Operate a bus on a designated route & schedule
  • Practice defensive driving & follow all traffic laws
  • Assist passengers, including those with disabilities
  • Maintain a professional and courteous demeanor with customers
  • Provide accurate route & schedule information
  • Complete required paperwork, including safety reports

Schedule & Work Hours:

  • Route drivers have set schedules
  • Full-time positions are available based on performance & company needs
  • Work hours vary ranging from 6 am to 9 pm.

Selection Process:

Application Review & Work Record Check
Driving Record Review (DMV Report Required)
Criminal Background Check & Reference Check
Drug Screening & DOT Medical Card Validation

Veterans Encouraged to Apply!

Pacific Crest Bus Lines is a proud recipient of the Department of Labor's Gold Medallion for Veteran Recruitment, making us the only passenger transportation company in the country to receive this honor.

Apply Today & Start Your Journey with Pacific Crest Bus Lines!

Location: Portland, OR

Pacific Crest Bus Lines is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing reasonable accommodations in the workplace.

Company Description

Pacific Crest Bus Lines is a growing transportation company providing charter, shuttle, military, corporate, and event transportation services throughout the Pacific Northwest. We are committed to safety, professionalism, reliability, and creating a positive work environment for our drivers and staff.
Our team operates a modern and expanding fleet while supporting a wide variety of transportation services, including military shuttle contracts, private charters, sports teams, corporate transportation, and regional passenger service operations.
We believe great drivers are the foundation of our company. That is why we focus on competitive pay, consistent work opportunities, professional support, and long-term career growth.