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Coach Bus Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coach Operator

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$54K - $78K/yr

BUS OPERATIONS & FLEET MAINTENANCE Opening Date: 07/23/2026 Description The primary responsibilities of the Coach Operator are to, under direct supervision, operate public transit buses, transport ...

Operates public transit coaches of varying sizes over assigned routes in a safe and timely manner; may operate coaches during peak or non-peak workload situations and emergencies, and other non ...

Coach Operator / Bus Driver

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

Operates public transit coaches of varying sizes over assigned routes in a safe and timely manner; may operate coaches during peak or non-peak workload situations and emergencies, and other non ...

Operates public transit coaches of varying sizes over assigned routes in a safe and timely manner; may operate coaches during peak or non-peak workload situations and emergencies, and other non ...

Motorcoach Bus Driver

Orange, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Student Transportation of America, doing business as Diversified Transportation, is actively hiring Motor Coach Bus Drivers to join our growing team in Winnemucca, NV! In this role, you will ...

Student Transportation of America, doing business as Diversified Transportation, is actively hiring Motor Coach Bus Drivers to join our growing team in Winnemucca, NV! In this role, you will ...

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

... operating since 2011. We provide Shuttle bus services to casinos 24/7 and we are also contracted ... Our current fleet of 20 luxury Motor coaches is utilized to provide services for all transportation ...

Bus Driver

Rio Vista, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Strategic Schooling is ongoing in all our school sites and Common Core training and coaching is the ... Experience operating buses as desirable. Training: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade ...

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Coach Bus Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$24

$33

How much do coach bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for coach bus operator in California is $24.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coach bus operator?

Coach bus operators are professional drivers responsible for safely transporting passengers over long distances in large buses, typically between cities or on tours. They follow scheduled routes, assist passengers with boarding and luggage, and ensure that the journey is comfortable and timely. In addition to driving, they may also provide information about destinations, enforce safety regulations, and perform routine vehicle inspections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coach bus operator?

To thrive as a Coach Bus Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement, a clean driving record, and knowledge of transportation regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, vehicle inspection checklists, and safety equipment is essential. Strong customer service skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help operators manage passenger needs and unexpected situations. These skills ensure safe, timely, and pleasant travel experiences for passengers while maintaining compliance with transportation laws.

What are some common challenges faced by coach bus operators during long-distance trips?

Coach bus operators often encounter challenges such as managing fatigue during extended hours on the road, adhering to strict schedules despite potential traffic or weather delays, and ensuring passenger safety and comfort throughout the journey. Effective communication with dispatchers, timely rest breaks, and familiarity with route planning are essential to overcoming these obstacles. Additionally, operators must remain alert to mechanical issues and provide excellent customer service, which can require calm problem-solving and adaptability.

What is the difference between Coach Bus Operator vs School Bus Driver?

AspectCoach Bus OperatorSchool Bus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentLong-distance or charter trips, often on highwaysDaily routes within local communities, primarily on school campuses and neighborhoods
Employer & IndustryCharter companies, tour operators, transportation servicesSchool districts, educational institutions
Search & Comparison IntentTravel, charter services, long-distance tripsSchool transportation, daily student routes

While both Coach Bus Operators and School Bus Drivers require CDL licenses with passenger endorsements, Coach Bus Operators typically handle long-distance or charter trips for various clients, whereas School Bus Drivers focus on daily student transportation within local areas. Their work environments and employer types differ, but both roles prioritize safety and customer service.

How much do coach bus operators make?

Coach bus operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and employer. They often work full-time schedules that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, and require a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements.

How to become a coach bus operator?

To become a coach bus operator, candidates typically need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement, which requires passing written and skills tests. Prior driving experience, a clean driving record, and sometimes a medical exam are also necessary; training is often provided by employers to teach safety protocols and vehicle operation.

What cities in California are hiring for Coach Bus Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Coach Bus Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Coach Bus Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,248 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Bus Operator Trainee - Hourly/At-Will/Part-Time

Norwalk, CA • On-site

$22.95 - $29.83/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Applications are being accepted continuously. Recruitment may close at any time without notice. Only applicants selected to continue in the examination process will be notified.

A current Driving Record printout from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 30 days must be submitted along with the application. Applications submitted without a Driving Record printout will be considered incomplete and will not be given consideration. The Bus Operator Trainee is under supervision and learns to drive a bus safely to transport passengers along an assigned route.

Upon successful completion of a six to eight week paid training program, trainees will be eligible for hire as an hourly/at-will/part-time Bus Operator ($28.22 - $34.30 per hour); and eligible for: Sign-on BONUS of $1,000 (after 6 months of employment). NOTE: The classroom training will be 30 hours per week; however, the exact hours may vary. The behind-the-wheel training may be conducted Monday through Sunday at various times

This position will require working a variety of hours, including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Training hours are subject to change. Essential Duties Essential duties include, but are not limited to, the following: Learns to complete pre-trip safety inspection of exterior of bus, noticing its general condition and looking for damage and leaks.

Learns to check the engine compartment for condition of belts, hoses, wiring and fluid levels. Learns to check condition of tires, tread, wheel walls, etc. Learns to conduct an interior safety inspection, checking the drivers compartment for condition of controls such as steering wheel, accelerator and brake pedals, gauges, horn, wipers, lights, mirrors, etc.

Learns to conduct air brake system tests, wheelchair lift operation, emergency equipment conditions, seats, securements, etc. Learns to complete the necessary inspection forms as required by law. Learns to drive bus over an assigned route in accordance with a time schedule.

Learns to collect and record fares and issue transfers. Learns to prepare various reports related to accidents, lost articles, ridership, etc. Learns to operate two-way mobile bus radio in accordance with established operating rules and procedures.

Qualification Guidelines Knowledge of: State and local traffic laws and speed limits; safe driving practices. Ability to: learn how to drive a bus and conduct pre-trip safety inspections; prepare accurate reports and meet the public in situations requiring diplomacy and tact; work independently; follow oral and written instructions; communicate effectively; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. Education and/or Experience Any combination of education and/or experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary.

Example combinations include: Graduation from high school or equivalent, experience in dealing with the general public and a good driving record. Minimum age of 21 years. Licenses and Certificates Possession of or ability to obtain a Class A, B or C California driver's license at the time of appointment and a satisfactory driving record.

Ability to obtain a Class B Commercial (CDL) Permit with Air Brake and Passenger Endorsement during the training period. Possession of or ability to obtain a valid medical examiner's certificate. May also be required to obtain a SPAB (School Pupil Activity Bus) certificate during the training period.

Pass DMV drive test and pre-trip inspection and/or California Highway Patrol (CHP) drive test and pre-trip inspection. Supplemental Information PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, an incumbent is regularly required to use hands to finger, grasp, feel, and use repetitive motions in order to operate office equipment. Incumbents are frequently required to sit, talk and hear. Incumbents are very occasionally required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch or reach.

Incumbents perform sedentary work. Specific vision abilities required by these positions are those required to perform office machine operations. There is an occasional need to lift up to 50 pounds.

SELECTION PROCESS Apply online at http://www.norwalkca.gov/city-hall/departments/human-resources. Employment application and supplemental questions must be completed. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a City application

Applicant must be specific in describing qualifications for this position on application. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application.

Faxed materials or postmarks will not be accepted. Following the closing date, application packets will be screened in relation to the criteria outlined in the job announcement. Candidates with qualifications that best relate to the position will be invited to participate in the selection process.

Possession of the minimum qualifications does not ensure continuing in the recruitment process. The selection process may include an oral interview and other testing processes designed to predict successful job performance. The City provides preference to military veterans under consideration for initial employment.

To claim veteran's preference an applicant must submit their most recent DD214 form. An eligible veteran is one who has served in the United States armed forces and who has received an honorable discharge. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be requested by calling the Department of Human Resources at least three (3) business days in advance of the scheduled examination/interview date.

City appointments are contingent upon successful completion of a post-offer medical examination, including drug screening to comply with our Drug Free Workplace policy, and a Live Scan fingerprint check through the Department of Justice. The successful candidate will be required to provide identification and employment eligibility as outlined in the Immigration Reform and Control Act. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract.

Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice. The City of Norwalk, in compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, religion, disability, sex, or sexual orientation in its employment actions, policies, procedures or practices.