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Bus Operators Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AC Transit

Bus Operator

Encino, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

AC Transit Bus Operator AC Transit is actively seeking courteous, customer service-oriented and dependable individuals to safely operate our buses and provide the highest quality of service to our ...

Transdev

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 ...

Transdev

Bus Operator

Merced, CA · 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 ...

Transdev

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 ...

Transdev

Bus Operator

Merced, CA · 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 ...

Avalon Transportation LLC

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 ...

MV Transportation

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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsBus Operators JobsBus Operators Jobs in California

Bus Operators information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$29

How much do bus operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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 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.

How difficult is it to become a bus operator?

Becoming a bus operator typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and passing a background check. Candidates often need to complete a training program that covers safety procedures, vehicle operation, and customer service skills, which can take several weeks. Some regions also require a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement, depending on local regulations.

How to become a bus operator?

To become a bus operator, candidates typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement, a clean driving record, and a background check. Training programs are often provided by transit agencies, and applicants must pass written and road tests to qualify for the position.
What cities in California are hiring for Bus Operators jobs? Cities in California with the most Bus Operators job openings:
Bus Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Operators job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, 70% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $46,004 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Bus Operator

Santa Barbara Metro Transit District

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$27.90/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

COMPENSATION PACKAGE
  • Hourly range starting at $27.90 for all new hires to $34.95 per hour after 6 years of employment
  • Paid training (6-8 weeks)
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance/family coverage
  • Employer-funded pension
  • Optional 457(b) supplemental retirement
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid vacation
  • Sick leave

Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) K-4 driving print out is required to be submitted for consideration

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Bus Operator is responsible for the safe operation of a passenger bus on assigned routes and schedules. The position requires an individual with a courteous and positive attitude toward the public at all times. The Bus Operator must drive safely, answer questions about all MTD routes and schedules, ensure passengers deposit fares in the fare box, report any items that may be deficient using proper forms and procedures, and perform other duties as required.

Bus Operator is classified as a safety sensitive position and is subject to drug and alcohol testing, including random testing, under the Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Transportation Administrative (FTA) drug and alcohol regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS

A valid Class B Driver’s License or the ability to obtain one is required. Other qualifications include considerable skill in operation of motor vehicles; knowledge of California Department of Motor Vehicles Rules and Regulations, operation of public passenger carrying vehicles; ability to establish and maintain effective courteous relations with public and work harmoniously with others; ability in preparing clear and concise reports. Graduation from high school or GED and minimum of three (3) years of safe driving is also required. Minimum 21 years of age.

ABILITIES

The physical demands of this position include prolonged sitting, driving, and steering, with occasional bending and stooping to assist disabled passengers, and must be able to lift, push, and pull at least 50 pounds.

DEMONSTRATED DRIVING RECORD

You will need to submit a copy of your DMV printout (this is called a “K-4” California Driver’s History Record). Your record must not have a citation for reckless driving or a citation related to driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol within 10 years of hire. Your DMV record must not have a combination of more than two citations and/or at fault accidents within the last 3 years. Please fax a copy of your DMV K-4 printout to the attention of Human Resources at (805) 963-9573.

DISCLAIMER

Position overview is not construed to be an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Employees may be required to perform any other job-related instructions as requested by his/her supervisor, department head or general manager.

SELECTION PROCESS

All applications will be evaluated on their related work experience and education qualifications. MTD will invite the most qualified candidates to complete a written examination. Applicants with passing scores will be invited for an interview. MTD application MUST be fully completed and must clearly show that the minimum requirements are met. Any questions on application that are unanswered may cause you to be excluded from the selection process.

All statements made on an application are subject to investigation and verification. Any invalid applications are subject to disqualification.


PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROCESS

The process includes a job-specific pre-employment physical and drug screening to be completed by an industrial health clinic of MTD’s choice; criminal background and references will also be performed. All offers of employment are conditional upon successful completion of the pre-employment process.

IMMIGRATION AND CONTROL ACT OF 1986

In order to comply with the provision of this law, all applicants prior to placement, must provide proof of work eligibility and attest that they are a citizen, permanent resident alien, or otherwise authorized to be employed.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District has established a policy and practice of recruiting, hiring, training and promoting for all job classifications within MTD without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class or consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws.