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Bus Operators Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bus Operator

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$28.36 - $34.49/hr

Holidays - Part-time Bus Operators get in lieu holiday pay equal to 15 days/year; Full-time Bus Operators get 7 paid holidays and up to 8 paid floating holidays * $500 Wellness benefit January of ...

Bus Operator

Santa Rosa, CA

$28.36 - $34.49/hr

Part-time Bus Operators will operate buses in route training with or without another CityBus employee for up to 90 days or until deemed to be fully competent to operate the bus. While in training ...

Bus Operator

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$28.36 - $34.49/hr

Holidays - Part-time Bus Operators get in lieu holiday pay equal to 15 days/year; Full-time Bus Operators get 7 paid holidays and up to 8 paid floating holidays * $500 Wellness benefit January of ...

BUS OPERATOR

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$27.70 - $33.59/hr

Metro Rule Book for Bus Operators and Standard Operations Procedures * Metro Issued Route and Schedule Material * Basic money and time concepts Skill in (defined as the proficient manual, verbal, or ...

Bus Operator

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$25.95/hr

If so, LBT wants YOU to join our team as a Professional Bus Operator! What you'll do: * Transport customers safely and comfortably. * Assist passengers with important travel decisions. * Enjoy the ...

Bus Operator

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$25.95/hr

If so, LBT wants YOU to join our team as a Professional Bus Operator! What you'll do: * Transport customers safely and comfortably. * Assist passengers with important travel decisions. * Enjoy the ...

Motorcoach Bus Driver

Orange, CA

$22.75 - $30.25/hr

Hit the Road with Us! We're hiring Motorcoach Bus Operators. Full-time and part-time positions available with excellent pay and a $2500 sign-on bonus. Apply now! Sign-on Bonus $2500 | Referral Bonus ...

Bus Operator

Merced, CA

$22.34 - $34.20/hr

Bus Operator We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in Merced, CA. As a key member, you will be entrusted with ensuring safe and comfortable ...

Bus Operator

Merced, CA ยท On-site

$22.34 - $34.20/hr

Bus Operator We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in Merced, CA. As a key member, you will be entrusted with ensuring safe and comfortable ...

Bus Operator

Chico, CA ยท On-site

$23 - $29/hr

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

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Bus Operators information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$29

How much do bus operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operators in California is $22.12, 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 is the top pay for a bus operator?

The top pay for bus operators varies by location and experience but can reach around $25 to $30 per hour or higher in some regions. Experienced operators with additional certifications or seniority may earn higher wages, often supplemented by benefits and overtime opportunities.

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 clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with fare collection systems, route mapping technology, and vehicle inspection procedures is typically required. Strong customer service skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help Bus Operators effectively handle passengers and challenging situations. These competencies ensure safe transportation, reliable service, and positive interactions with the public.

What is the difference between Bus Operators vs Bus Drivers?

AspectBus OperatorsBus Drivers
Required CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsementCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, school buses, tour busesPublic transit, school buses, tour buses
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, private bus companiesTransit agencies, private bus companies
Job FocusOperating buses, ensuring passenger safety, route adherenceOperating buses, ensuring passenger safety, route adherence

Bus Operators and Bus Drivers often share similar roles, credentials, and work environments. Both require a CDL with passenger endorsements and work in transit or private bus services. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Bus Operator' is often used in public transit agencies, emphasizing the operational aspect, while 'Bus Driver' is a more general term. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right opportunities in the transit industry.

What are bus operators?

Bus operators are professional drivers responsible for safely transporting passengers along designated routes using buses. They follow schedules, pick up and drop off passengers at stops, collect fares, and provide customer service by answering questions about routes and schedules. In addition to driving, bus operators ensure the safety of all passengers, adhere to traffic laws, and perform basic vehicle inspections before and after trips. They may work for public transit agencies, schools, or private companies, and often have to deal with a variety of road, weather, and passenger situations.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $14 to $22, depending on experience, location, and employer. Annual salaries generally range from $25,000 to $45,000, with part-time or seasonal schedules common in the profession.

What are some common challenges Bus Operators face during their shifts, and how can they effectively manage them?

Bus Operators often encounter challenges such as adhering to tight schedules, managing unpredictable traffic conditions, and ensuring passenger safety and comfort. They may also deal with difficult situations involving passengers or sudden route changes. Effective communication, strong time management, and staying calm under pressure are key to overcoming these challenges. Many transit agencies offer training and support resources to help bus operators handle these scenarios professionally.

Is a CDL required to be a bus operator?

Yes, bus operators typically need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsement to operate commercial buses legally. Requirements may vary by region, but obtaining a CDL is generally a standard qualification for this role, along with a clean driving record and passing a background check.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Most jobs that pay $2000 a day are high-level positions such as specialized medical professionals, senior corporate executives, or certain skilled trades like pilots or legal consultants. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, or specialized skills, and often involve long hours or high responsibility. For bus operators, such earnings are uncommon unless working overtime, long shifts, or in private or charter services with premium pay structures.
What cities in California are hiring for Bus Operators jobs? Cities in California with the most Bus Operators job openings:
Infographic showing various Bus Operators job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 74% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,004 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Bus Operator

Bus Operator

City of Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa, CA โ€ข On-site

$28.36 - $34.49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

ANT A GREAT JOB WITH GREAT BENEFITS?

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY, TRAINING PROVIDED!ย 

COME JOIN CITYBUS IN PROVIDING CRITICAL SERVICES TO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY!



The City of Santa Rosa is committed to building a workforce reflective of our community and establishing a lasting culture of equity and belonging within our organization. Our collective talents and expertise contribute to high-quality public services that support a vibrant, resilient, inclusive City for our community and visitors. We celebrate a diverse workforce and welcome all qualified candidates to apply.


The Benefits of City Employment
In addition to offering a rewarding work environment, opportunity for career growth, and an excellent salary, the City of Santa Rosa provides a generous suite of benefits, including retirement through CalPERS, a competitive leave package with vacation and sick leave, your choice of health plan, and top of the line employer paid (free to you) vision and dental coverage. ย More information regarding benefits associated with this position can be found on ourย Miscellaneous Employee Benefits Page.
Additional Benefits Include:

  • On the job training! ย During a training period of 5-8 weeks, learn how to safely operate a transit bus and transport passengers on a fixed route, and how to effectively engage with the public
  • Shift differential for all hours worked between 4:00 pm and 9:00 pm
  • Holidays - Part-time Bus Operators get in lieu holiday pay equal to 15 days/year; Full-time Bus Operators get 7 paid holidays and up to 8 paid floating holidays
  • $500 Wellness benefit January of each year, prorated based on full time equivalent statusย 

About the Position:

CityBus,ย the City of Santa Rosa's award-winning municipally owned transit system, is actively seeking individuals interested in making positive contributions to the public transportation service provided to the community. The fundamental reason this position exists is to safely operate a transit bus, transport passengers on a fixed route basis, and to effectively interact with the public. This recruitment is being conducted to establish and maintain a candidate list to fill current and anticipated future vacancies.

The Successful Candidate will:

  • Demonstrate a prideful and dedicated work ethic
  • Strive for providing exceptional customer service
  • Be safety oriented and adhere to all safety regulations and standards
  • Possess the ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively within the team
  • Conducts oneself in a courteous, professional and responsible manner
  • Abide by Federal laws and regulations related to drug and alcohol use for commercial drivers
  • Has a satisfactory and safe driving record that meets the City's Driving Standard* (commercial driving experience is not required)

In order to qualify for this position, applicants must meet the City of Santa Rosa Driving History Standard. To view the City of Santa Rosa Driving History, please clickย HERE.
If you possess a satisfactory driving record, you will be trained in the safe and proper operation of a public transit bus and assisted in obtaining your Class B license with Passenger Endorsement from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
Salary and Working Hours Information
All new Bus Operators are classified as part-time. The training period is 5-8 weeks, which will include classroom training and obtainment of a valid Class B driverโ€™s license with Passenger Endorsement.ย Part-time Bus Operators will operate buses in route training with or without anotherย CityBusย employee for up to 90 days or until deemed to be fully competent to operate the bus.
While in training,ย Part-time Bus Operators work on average 37 to 40 hours per week. Regular Part-time Bus Operators work varied hours and are expected to be available on short notice seven (7) days per week.ย Regular Part-time Bus Operators may be considered for Full-time positions without further testing should those positions become available. Bus Operators (Part-time and Full-time) are expected to work a variety of shifts including weekends and holidays. The types of shifts vary from early morning to late evening.

How to Apply: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/srcity/jobs/5375288/bus-operator

There are two ways to submit your application for Bus Operator with the City of Santa Rosa. ย You mayย apply onlineย ORย submit a paper application to the Human Resources Department.

  • Paper application packets may be obtained from the Human Resources Department at 100 Santa Rosa Avenue, Room 1, Santa Rosa, CA 95404.

The Selection Process:ย 

In order to qualify for this position, applicants must meet the City of Santa Rosa Driving History Standard. To view the City of Santa Rosa Driving History, please clickย HERE.

A completed City of Santa Rosa Application for Employment and Supplemental Questionnaire is required.ย Applicants possessing the most desirable qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process that may consist of an application and supplemental questionnaire review, followed by department selection interviews.

Please complete a thoughtful, thorough Supplemental Questionnaire submission.ย As part of the selection process, your responses to these questions may be scored using criteria specific to this position. Incomplete responses, generic responses, orย responses such as "See Resume" may not be considered.ย 

This position is open as a continuous recruitment, with applications being reviewed and referred to the hiring department on a regular interval basis.


Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter.ย 
If you possess a satisfactory driving record, you will be trained in the safe and proper operation of a public transit bus and assisted in obtaining your Class B license with Passenger Endorsement from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.


Examples of Duties and Responsibilities


The following duties are considered to be essential for this job classification:

  • Safely drive and operate a transit bus in transporting passengers on a fixed route basis;
  • locate and board persons desiring service at designated bus stops;
  • discharge passengers at desired destinations;
  • assist elderly and disabled persons in boarding and leaving the bus;
  • collect and account for fares;
  • maintain ridership information according to departmental procedures;
  • operate a mobile radio and public address system;
  • complete incident and accident report forms as necessary;
  • provide information and directions to the public;
  • observe and report hazardous road conditions and vehicle and passenger safety concerns;
  • and perform related duties as assigned.


Required Qualifications


Knowledge of:ย Basic automotive care and maintenance requirements; basic safety practices related to driving; basic business writing and arithmetic; vehicle operation and state and local traffic laws.

Ability to:ย Read a street map and physically locate landmarks; read transit schedules and timetables; understand and carry out oral and written instructions, including departmental Standard Operating Procedures; recognize hazardous driving conditions quickly and accurately and adopt effective courses of action; communicate clearly both orally and in writing; deal effectively and tactfully with the public; and perform assigned duties with minimal supervision. Ability to work a flexible schedule is required.

Experience and Education:ย Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying.
License or Certificate:ย Possess and maintain throughout employment, a valid Class B California motor vehicle operator's license and medical certificate and have a satisfactory driving history as defined by the City. Incumbents will be assisted in obtaining the Class B license with Passenger Endorsement from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.ย 


In order to qualify for this position, applicants must meet the City of Santa Rosa Driving History Standard, including having a valid driver's license at time of application. To view the City of Santa Rosa Driving History, please clickย HERE.
If you possess a satisfactory driving record, you will be trained in the safe and proper operation of a public transit bus and assisted in obtaining your Class B license with Passenger Endorsement from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.


Additional Information


In the course of driving a bus, incumbents are required to: sit for extended periods of time with limited ability to move about, using their stomach and lower back muscles to support their body; coordinate repetitive, concurrent hand and foot movements while simultaneously operating a vehicle and using a two-way radio or public address system; manually enter fare and passenger data into an electronic fare box; and listen for passenger's signals requesting a stop. While assisting passengers in wheelchairs, operators are required to move and secure the wheelchairs in their proper location. This class often requires working weekends, holidays and a variety of shifts. Operators work in a variety of weather conditions including hot and very cold temperatures.


Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter.ย ย 
FILING PERIOD: THIS RECRUITMENT WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL A SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS ARE RECEIVED. ย INTERESTED PARTIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY SOON AS IT MAY CLOSE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. ย 

THE CITY OF SANTA ROSA IS PROUD TO BE AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.



The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability inย employment.ย Requests for reasonable accommodations needed to participate in the recruitment process may be made by submitting aย Request for Reasonable Accommodation Formย within five (5) business days of being noticed that an event requiring accommodation is occurring.ย 

Company Description

The City of Santa Rosa, a charter city incorporated in 1868, is the county seat of Sonoma County, one of California's premier wine growing regions, and it is the gateway to tourist destinations in the redwoods and on the coast. Santa Rosa is the 26th largest city in the state. it occupies 41 square miles and serves a population of 170,236.
The City of Santa Rosa provides a full range of services including police and fire protection; construction and maintenance of streets and other infrastructure; water, storm water, and wastewater utilities; housing services through its Housing Authority; economic development; transit; parking; and recreation, parks, and cultural services, including a municipal golf course.
The City of Santa Rosa's residents work in a well balanced mix of management, professional, manufacturing, sales, tourism, transportation, construction, and service jobs. The City also plays an important role in supporting the agriculture and tourism industries of California's north coast.
THE CITY:
Just 55 miles north of San Francisco, you will find a vibrant City overflowing with all there is to love about California. Welcome to Santa Rosa where everything comes together: Wine country, farm country, redwood forests and rivers, lakes and the ocean. In the center of all that is a thriving downtown lined with intriguing shops and restaurants that delight casual diners and epicurean alike. A charter city incorporated in 1868, Santa Rosa is the county seat of Sonoma County, one of California's premier wine growing regions and is the gateway to tourist destinations in the redwoods and on the coast. Santa Rosa occupies 41 square miles and serves a population of 170,000. The City has a historic preservation program and has environmental diversity.