1

Bus Operators Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Responsibilities MV Dumbarton Express located in Union City, CA is immediately hiring Bus Operators! PREVIOUS BUS DRIVER EXPERIENCE IS NOT REQUIRED! Full-time and Part-time Positions Available! Off ...

Van/Bus Operator

Klamath, CA

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Under the general supervision of the Transportation Coordinator, the Van/Bus Operator is responsible for the provision of transit services, including the operation of bus and/or van ...

CDL Bus Driver

Union City, CA · On-site

$26.50/hr

MV Dumbarton Express located in Union City, CA is immediately hiring Bus Operators! PREVIOUS BUS DRIVER EXPERIENCE IS NOT REQUIRED! Full-time and Part-time Positions Available! Off on Weekends and ...

Van/Bus Operator

Klamath, CA · On-site

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

Transportation Opening Date: 06/10/2026 Closing Date: 7/7/2026 11:59 PM Pacific POSITION SUMMARY Under the general supervision of the Transportation Coordinator, the Van/Bus Operator is responsible ...

CDL Bus Driver

Union City, CA · On-site

$26.50/hr

Responsibilities MV Dumbarton Express located in Union City, CA is immediately hiring Bus Operators! PREVIOUS BUS DRIVER EXPERIENCE IS NOT REQUIRED! Full-time and Part-time Positions Available! Off ...

Paratransit Bus Operator We are currently on the lookout for experienced Bus Drivers to join our elite team in San Rafael, CA. As a key member, you will be entrusted with ensuring safe and ...

Paratransit Bus Operator We are currently on the lookout for experienced Bus Drivers to join our elite team in San Rafael, CA. As a key member, you will be entrusted with ensuring safe and ...

Driver/Operator - Bus, Paratransit, Taxi, Limo, Shuttle Job Type: Full Time Req ID: 4695 Pay Group: 7XY Cost Center: 590 The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of ...

Driver/Operator - Bus, Paratransit, Taxi, Limo, Shuttle Job Type: Full Time Req ID: 4695 Pay Group: 7XY Cost Center: 590 The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Bus Operators information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$29

How much do bus operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 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

$23 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 hours ago


Transdev North America rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 257 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 76 rated public transport


Job description

We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in Chico, California. As a key member, you will be entrusted with ensuring safe and comfortable transportation for our passengers, while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and customer service.

Position Subject to Collective Bargaining Agreement:

  • $23.00 - $29.00 (Union Collective Bargaining Agreement PayScale)
  • Starting pay $23.00 with progression to $29.00 over 5 years

Benefits include:

  • Vacation: up to 14 days per year
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical, dental & vision after 90 calendar days of employment for full-time employees,
  • Life insurance, Pension

Benefits may vary depending on location policy. The above represents the standard Corporate Policy.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safety-Focused Operations: Execute flawless operations by meticulously following designated routes and schedules, while adhering to stringent safety protocols and traffic regulations.
  • Passenger Care: Exhibit exceptional care and assistance towards passengers, ensuring smooth boarding, comfortable rides, and timely disembarkation for all.
  • Vehicle Vigilance: Champion vehicle safety through comprehensive pre-trip and post-trip inspections, promptly reporting any maintenance issues and maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and safety equipment readiness.
  • Adherence to Protocols: Uphold company policies and procedures rigorously, encompassing seat belt enforcement, emergency response preparedness, and compliance with regulatory mandates.
  • Other duties as required

Qualifications:

  • 21 years or older
  • Valid CDL Class A or B with passenger and airbrake endorsement
  • Minimum 3 years of driving experience (personal or professional)
  • Excellent communication & customer service skills.
  • Must be able to work shifts or flexible work schedules as needed.
  • Subject to a DOT drug testing and physical if applicable. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including cannabis, for any reason.

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to work shifts or flexible work schedules as needed.
  • The employee is generally subjected to long periods spent sitting, typing, or looking at a computer screen.
  • Work environment will be a combination of both indoors and outdoors.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Transdev complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and candidates with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact us.HR.TalentAcquisition@transdev.com

Drug-free workplace:

Transdev maintains a drug-free workplace. Applicants must:

  • Be eligible to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship now or in the future (if based in the

U.S.).

  • Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen.

About Transdev:

Cities, counties, airports, companies, and universities across the U.S. contract with Transdev to operate their transportation systems, maintain their vehicle and fleets, and deliver on mobility solutions. Transdev U.S. employs a team of 32,000 across 400 locations while maintaining more than 17,000 vehicles.

Part of a global company, Transdev is a leader in mobility with operations in 19 countries, proudly operated by 110,000 team members from around the world. As an operator and global integrator of mobility, we are driven by our purpose. Transdev – the mobility company – empowers the freedom to move every day thank to safe, reliable, and innovative solutions that serve the common good. Find out more at www.TransdevNA.com or watch an overview video .

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions upon request.

Transdev is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or other legally protected status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.

Drug-free workplace.

If based in the United States, applicants must be eligible to work in U.S. without restrictions for any employer at any time; be able to pass a drug screen and background check.

California applicants: PleaseClick Herefor CA Employee Privacy Policy.

Apply Now

Job Category: Drivers

Job Type: Full Time

Req ID: 7754

Pay Group: 6LD

Cost Center: 396

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions upon request.

Transdev is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or other legally protected status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.

Drug-free workplace

If based in the United States, applicants must be eligible to work in U.S. without restrictions for any employer at any time; be able to pass a drug screen and background check.

California applicants: Please Click Here for CA Employee Privacy Policy.

About Transdev

Cities, counties, airports, companies, and universities across the U.S. contract with Transdev to operate their transportation systems, maintain their vehicle and fleets, and deliver on mobility solutions. Transdev U.S. employs a team of 32,000 across 400 locations while maintaining more than 17,000 vehicles.

Part of a global company, Transdev is a leader in mobility with operations in 19 countries, proudly operated by 110,000 team members from around the world. As an operator and global integrator of mobility, we are driven by our purpose. Transdev – the mobility company – empowers the freedom to move every day thank to safe, reliable, and innovative solutions that serve the common good. Find out more at http://www.TransdevNA.com or watch an overview video.


What Transdev North America employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom