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Bus Operators Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

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Bus Operators information

See Georgia salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do bus operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operators in Georgia is $18.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $20.72 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 Georgia are hiring for Bus Operators jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Bus Operators job openings:
SCHOOL BUS OPERATOR POOL

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Atlanta Public Schools rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

478th of 558 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Position Summary:

The School Bus Operator supports the ongoing enrichment of Atlanta Public Schools (APS) students through the facilitation of bus services. The incumbent operates the school buses safely under all types of weather conditions, transporting students and other authorized persons to and from school on regular, special education, and other routes. The school bus operator may make extracurricular trips as authorized by the local school system. EQUIPMENT: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required when directed and/or deemed appropriate.


Essential Duties:

Transports passengers over scheduled routes to and from school and/or field trips in a safe and timely manner 

Provides safe loading and unloading of all passengers from buses during regular transport and emergency situations 

Attends unit meetings, in-service training, workshops, etc., to gather information required to perform job functions 

Assesses incidents, complaints, accidents, and/or potential emergency situations (e.g., road hazards, medical emergencies, accidents, etc.) to resolve and/or recommend a resolution to the situation 

Performs basic first-aid and safety practices 

Cleans assigned vehicles, both interior and exterior, to ensure safety, proper appearance, and sanitation of vehicles, which includes post-trip wipe-downs of the interior of the vehicle due to health or other emergency situations and concerns 

Conducts emergency evacuation drills at least twice a year to ensure the knowledge and efficiency of procedures and comply with mandated requirements 

Fuels assigned vehicle (e.g., oil, water, fuel, etc.) to maintain the vehicle in a safe operating condition 

Monitors students and other passengers during transit to ensure the safe transportation of all passengers 

Informs other school personnel and parents of events, policies, and/or practices (e.g., scheduled stops, established routes, route conditions, etc.) to provide information and/or clarification of procedures 

Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspections (e.g., fluid levels, tire pressure, exterior condition, etc.) to ensure the safe operating condition of the vehicle and comply with mandated guidelines 

Prepares reports (e.g., field trip reports, incident reports, inspection records, passenger misconduct, mileage logs, student counts, routing information, etc.) documenting activities, providing written reference, conveying information, and/or complying with established guidelines 

Reports observations and/or incidents (e.g., discipline, bullying, accidents, inappropriate social behavior, etc.) to appropriate personnel for their action, submitting appropriate reports as necessary 

Responds to inquiries from students, parents, and/or staff to provide the necessary information regarding transportation services 

Assists with food or device distribution to students and others while wearing proper PPE when instructed or deemed appropriate 

Utilizes the electronic mobile data terminal (MDT) on the school bus to log in and log-out, as well as select routes and runs and complete reports 

Required to have prompt, regular attendance in person and be available to work on-site during regular business hours and as needed. 

Performs other duties as assigned by the appropriate administrator or their representative.


Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

Knowledge and ability to apply pertinent codes, policies, regulations, and/or laws 

Ability to adhere to safety practices 

Ability to read, interpret, and follow printed and electronic maps, route descriptions, and directions 

Ability to operate district vehicles, fire extinguishers, two-way radios, and standard office equipment 

Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records 

Knowledge of emergency evacuation techniques 

Knowledge of area streets and locations 

Understanding of essential vehicle maintenance 

Knowledge of first aid, health standards, and hazards, including the ability to administer first aid 

Understanding of safe driving practices and safety practices and procedures

Ability and knowledge to utilize wheelchairs, tie-downs, child safety seats, lifts, etc. (by assignment) 

Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with students and adults 

Strong student management and customer service skills 

Ability to perform basic math skills, including addition and subtraction

EDUCATION:

High School Diploma or GED required 

Additional years of equivalent professional experience may be considered in lieu of the degree requirement


CERTIFICATION/LICENSE:

Georgia State Drivers' CDL license with Passenger and School Bus permit 

Must be able to pass Georgia basic bus driver's certification class and maintain an annual Safety Renewal Education Program (SREP) recertification 

Successful completion of annual physical and agility testing with result clearance 

Successful completion of pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing

WORK EXPERIENCE:

1 year of work experience preferred 

Exemplary driving record classified as no more than 2 serious moving violations and points accumulation in current 7-year driving history 

Experience in K12 education or public sector preferred


Salary Grade:BUSD (6-Hour)

Salary Range:  Salary Schedules - Atlanta Public Schools

Work Year: 201
Physical Abilities and Working Conditions

Vision: (which may be corrected) to read small print; view a computer screen for prolonged periods. 

Hearing: (which may be corrected) to answer telephones and tolerate exposure to noisy conditions. 

Speech: to be understood in face-to-face communications; to speak with a level of proficiency and volume to beunderstood over a telephone. 

Upper Body Mobility: use hands and fingers to feel, grasp, and manipulate small objects; manipulate fingers, twist and bend at wrist and elbow; extend arms to reach outward and upward; use hands and arms to lift objects; turn, raise, and lower head. 

Strength: to lift, push, pull and/or carry objects which weigh as much as 5 or more pounds on a frequent basis. Incumbent may be required to physically restrain parties involved in a conflict. 

Environmental Requirements: encounter constant work interruptions; work cooperatively with others; work independently; work indoors. 

Mental Requirements: read, write, understand, interpret and apply information at a moderately complex level essential for successful job performance; math skills at a high school proficiency level; judgement and the ability to process information quickly; learn quickly and follow verbal procedures and standards; give verbal instruction; rank tasks in order of importance; copy, compare, compile and coordinate information and records. 

Additional Work Conditions & Physical Abilities: Extreme weather conditions include heat, cold, wet, and/or humid conditions. Exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals. Risk of electrical shock. Sitting for a prolonged period of time. Lifting, bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching. Ability to lift equipment and/or students weighing 40 pounds.