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Bus Operator Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

BUS DRIVER

Ontario Center, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

The operator drives a school bus on assigned route and/or special events. Responsible for the safety and conduct of passengers. Maintains records of mileage, routes, times and incidents. Requirements:

BUS DRIVER

Ontario Center, NY

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

The operator drives a school bus on assigned route and/or special events. Responsible for the safety and conduct of passengers. Maintains records of mileage, routes, times and incidents. Requirements:

Bus Driver

Victor, NY · On-site

$23.10/hr

Bus driver position may be coupled with a position from another department for a full day/40 hours per week employment, if desired. *SIGN ON BONUS AVAILABLE! $6000 OR $4500 (depending on ...

Bus Driver

Victor, NY · On-site

$23.10/hr

Bus driver position may be coupled with a position from another department for a full day/40 hours per week employment, if desired. *SIGN ON BONUS AVAILABLE! $6000 OR $4500 (depending on ...

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Bus Operator information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$22

$29

How much do bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operator in Rochester, NY is $22.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

What is the highest paying bus driver?

The highest paying bus drivers are often those who work in specialized roles such as charter or tour bus drivers, or those with extensive experience and certifications. Salaries can also be higher in regions with a higher cost of living or for drivers operating in private or corporate transportation services.

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 Rochester, NY? For Bus Operator jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Bus Operator jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Bus Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Bus Operator job openings in Rochester, NY as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,993 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Bus Driver - Continuous Recruitment

Bus Driver - Continuous Recruitment

Rochester City School District

Rochester, NY

$21.31/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Rochester City School District rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

351st of 542 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

(Resume and civil service application required.)This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation and routine daily maintenance check of a school bus used in the transport of students on an assigned route to and from school and on athletic and field trips. Employees of this class may also work on a seasonal basis with a town recreation department, transporting program participants between facilities or on excursions. The employee operates a full-size or mini-size school bus or van, and/or transports passengers with or without disabilities. Employees may be required to physically assist passengers to and from the bus or to operate a hydraulic lift for this purpose. Employees are responsible for the safety and conduct of passengers while in transport and may be accompanied in transit by a Bus Attendant or other staff member. The employee reports directly to, and works under the general supervision of a more senior transportation employee or administrator. Direct supervision may be exercised over Bus Attendants and other staff. Does related work as required.

Minimum Salary: $21.31 per hour

Maximum Salary: $23.30 per hour

Possession of a valid New York State drivers license appropriate to the vehicle(s) operated.SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must meet all State and Federal pre-employment requirements of the position prior to employment including the appropriate drivers license for the vehicle being operated. It is the jurisdictions responsibility for insuring the employees possess valid licenses appropriate to the type of vehicle(s) being operated.(All need not be performed in a given position. Other related activities may be performed although not listed.) Drives a school bus/vehicle on a regular schedule on an assigned route or on special occasions; Performs a pre-trip inspection of the vehicle prior to departure and post-trip inspection after every route;Reports all defects, mechanical and other, of the bus/vehicle to the supervisor; Instructs or informs passengers about safety practices and procedures when embarking and disembarking bus/vehicle, while in transit, and throughout the year; Maintains safe and orderly conduct on the bus/vehicle, including student management;Assists passengers in boarding and exiting a bus/vehicle by providing physical assistance or operating a hydraulic lift;Cleans and fuels assigned vehicles daily;Operates a van, station wagon, or similar vehicle to transport objects.FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Good knowledge of vehicle and traffic law, regulations of the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, and regulations of the Commissioner of Education (New York State Education Part 156.3 Transportation Regulations) pertaining to pupil transportation; good knowledge of safe driving practices and defensive driving; good knowledge of the geography of the employing school district or municipality; ability to operate a bus under all driving and road conditions; ability to understand oral and written directions; ability to physically assist passengers on and off buses; ability to get along well with children/students/passengers and command their respect; mental alertness; visual and audio acuity; dependability; courtesy; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

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