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Bus Operators Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Puyallup School District

BUS MECHANIC

Puyallup, WA · On-site

The position of "Bus Mechanic" is done for the purpose/s of determining needed repairs and/or replacements on a vehicle; ensuring the availability of vehicles in safe operating condition; performing ...

Puyallup School District

BUS MECHANIC

Puyallup, WA · On-site

The position of "Bus Mechanic" is done for the purpose/s of determining needed repairs and/or replacements on a vehicle; ensuring the availability of vehicles in safe operating condition; performing ...

Puyallup School District

BUS MECHANIC

Edgewood, WA

The position of "Bus Mechanic" is done for the purpose/s of determining needed repairs and/or replacements on a vehicle; ensuring the availability of vehicles in safe operating condition; performing ...

Puyallup School District

Be Seen First

Bus Mechanic

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$43.49 - $46.05/hr

The position of "Bus Mechanic" is done for the purpose/s of determining needed repairs and/or replacements on a vehicle; ensuring the availability of vehicles in safe operating condition; performing ...

Puyallup School District

Be Seen First

Bus Mechanic

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$43.49 - $46.05/hr

The position of "Bus Mechanic" is done for the purpose/s of determining needed repairs and/or replacements on a vehicle; ensuring the availability of vehicles in safe operating condition; performing ...

Community Transit

Bus Driver

Everett, WA · On-site

$32.05/hr

Our bus drivers come from every walk of life and job experience, including: * military service ... any lapses in licensing, legally operating a motor vehicle in the United States without ...

Community Transit

Bus Driver

Everett, WA

$39.31/hr

Our bus drivers come from every walk of life and job experience, including: * military service ... any lapses in licensing, legally operating a motor vehicle in the United States without ...

Skookum Contract Services

Driver, Bus

Silverdale, WA

$30.92/hr

Driver, Bus Location: Silverdale, Washington (Bangor) Type: Non-Exempt Work Schedule: Full-time ... Mustpossessa valid US Government Motor Vehicle Operator's Identification Card. Must have current or ...

Watermark at Bellevue IL

Bus Driver

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

We are currently looking to hire people who want to make a positive impact and to be a great representative of our operating principles. Your job should provide a sense of accomplishment, joy and ...

Watermark at Bellevue IL

Bus Driver

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

We are currently looking to hire people who want to make a positive impact and to be a great representative of our operating principles. Your job should provide a sense of accomplishment, joy and ...

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All JobsBus Operators JobsBus Operators Jobs in Seattle, WA

Bus Operators information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$14

$25

$34

How much do bus operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus operators in Seattle, WA is $25.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $27.88 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 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.

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.
Bus Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Operators job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 73% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $53,048 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
BUS MECHANIC

BUS MECHANIC

Puyallup School District

Puyallup, WA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Puyallup School District rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 577 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

  • Position Type:
    Mechanic
  • Date Posted:
    5/12/2026
  • Location:
    Transportation
  • Date Available:
    UPON HIRE
  • Closing Date:
    OPEN UNTIL FILLED

    • Posting: AP7539
    Location: Transportation
    Position: Bus Mechanic
    Rate: Mechanic * Bus Mechanic
    Hours: 8 Hours, Monday * Friday
    Calendar: 260-Day
    Notes: The position of "Bus Mechanic" is done for the purpose/s of determining needed repairs and/or replacements on a vehicle; ensuring the availability of vehicles in safe operating condition; performing scheduled maintenance on vehicles; and providing written documentation of repairs to meet district, state, and federal requirements.

    Applicant must own a complete set of mechanic's tools.
    Education Required

    • High School Diploma or equivalent


    Licenses, Certifications, Bonding, and/or Testing Required

    • Valid Class A or B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with air brake, passenger, and school bus endorsements (Class B CDL training is provided by the district) and evidence of insurability
      • Must have driving record free of traffic violations and accidents
    • Passing a DOT physical exam is required upon hire and yearly thereafter
    • DOT Drug Testing Clearance
      • Must submit to a preemployment drug screen and participate in DOT random drug/alcohol testing
    • First aid and CPR Certificate
    • Criminal Justice Fingerprint Clearance


    Benefits and Wages

    • Refer to the Mechanics-NWIAM agreements, salary schedules, calendars, and benefits here.


    Expedite Employment Processing

    • To expedite employment processing, please provide a minimum of 3 professional references from current and former supervisors, including their email addresses. Contact these references and ask them to respond promptly.


    Additional Information

    • Your application is active for a period of two years, for the positions you have selected.
    • All completed applications will be reviewed by the respective hiring team, and if you are selected for an interview, they will contact you directly by phone or email.
    • Please ensure you continue to update your application to reflect any changes such as adding employment history, and supervisor/manager references.
    • For further questions, please contact the Human Resources Department at personnel@puyallupsd.org.

    Attachment(s):
    • Job Description - Bus Diesel Mechanic.pdf


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