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Contract Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Academy Bus

Bus Driver

Perth Amboy, NJ · On-site

$26/hr

ACADEMY BUS is now hiring CDL DRIVERS to operate ON-CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION for our local University contract services in New Brunswick, NJ. Join Academy Bus and be part of our elite team of ...

Johnson Bus Co Inc

Bus Driver

Fond Du Lac, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

The Bus Monitor assists the school bus driver in ensuring the safe and orderly transportation of ... This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the company reserves the right to ...

Academy Bus

Bus Driver

Perth Amboy, NJ · On-site

$26/hr

ACADEMY BUS is now hiring CDL DRIVERS to operate ON-CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION for our local University contract services in New Brunswick, NJ. Join Academy Bus and be part of our elite team of ...

META Solutions

BUS DRIVER

Columbus, OH · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

August 13, 2026 Anticipated start date * 184 Day Contract * Approximately 5 hours per day * Bus Driver * Class B CDL with school bus & passenger endorsement required * State and Federal background ...

Johnson School Bus Service

Bus Driver

Fond Du Lac, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

The Bus Monitor assists the school bus driver in ensuring the safe and orderly transportation of ... This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the Company reserves the right to ...

META Solutions

BUS DRIVER

Columbus, OH

$16 - $21.75/hr

August 13, 2026 Anticipated start date * 184 Day Contract * Approximately 5 hours per day * Bus Driver * Class B CDL with school bus & passenger endorsement required * State and Federal background ...

Poway Unified School District

Bus Driver

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22.79 - $29.17/hr

Bus Driver at Poway Unified School District Share on X Print Application Deadline 6/30/2026 11:55 ... Retirement - CalPERS Holidays - 18 paid holidays per year (based on 12-month employment contract ...

Marion City Schools

Bus Driver

Marion, OH · On-site

$21.65/hr

Bus Driver Length of Contract: Nine-month contract; 188-day contract (hours depend on assigned route) General Duties: Safely operate a school bus transporting students to and from their homes and ...

Salt Lake City School District

Bus Driver

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Contract FLSA Status: Non- Exempt Salary Schedule/Lane: 77/A/01 Benefits: Eligible Reports To ... Our bus drivers are essential in making sure students get to school safely and are ready to learn.

Bryan City Schools

Bus Driver

Bryan, OH · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Bus Driver Class B CDL Bus driver class B CDL with S and P endorsements required. The employer ... contract language.

Bryan City Schools

Bus Driver

Bryan, OH · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Bus Driver Class B CDL Bus driver class B CDL with S and P endorsements required. The employer ... contract language.

Bryan City Schools

Bus Driver

Bryan, OH · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Bus Driver Class B CDL Bus driver class B CDL with S and P endorsements required. The employer ... contract language.

Johnson School Bus Service

Bus Driver

Fond Du Lac, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

School bus drivers pick up students at a designated location, such as street corners or homes and ... This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the Company reserves the right to ...

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Contract Bus Driver information

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$8

$19

$28

How much do contract bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract bus driver in the United States is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and vehicle operation. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, electronic logging devices, and safety inspection tools is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help manage passenger interactions and handle stressful situations. These competencies ensure safe, efficient transportation and contribute to a positive experience for passengers and employers.

What are some common challenges faced by contract bus drivers, and how can they be managed?

Contract bus drivers often face challenges such as adapting to varying routes, managing tight schedules, and ensuring passenger safety in different traffic conditions. Effective communication with dispatchers and staying updated on route changes can help drivers navigate these challenges. Additionally, maintaining a calm demeanor and practicing defensive driving are essential for handling unexpected situations on the road. Building strong relationships with colleagues and supervisors also provides support and facilitates problem-solving.

What are contract bus drivers?

Contract bus drivers are professional drivers who operate buses on behalf of a company or organization under a contractual agreement, rather than as direct employees. They may work for private transportation firms, school districts, or public transit agencies on a contract basis, often driving specific routes or during particular times. Their responsibilities typically include safely transporting passengers, following schedules, and maintaining the cleanliness and safety of their vehicles. Contract bus drivers must hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a passenger endorsement and meet any additional requirements set by their employer or local regulations.

Do I need a CDL to drive a charter bus?

Yes, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is typically required for contract bus drivers to operate charter buses, as it certifies the driver has the necessary skills and knowledge. Additional endorsements, such as passenger or school bus endorsements, may also be required depending on the vehicle and jurisdiction.

What is the difference between Contract Bus Driver vs Full-Time Bus Driver?

AspectContract Bus DriverFull-Time Bus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCDL, passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentOn-demand, short-term assignments, varied routesScheduled routes, consistent hours
Employer & Industry UsageContracted transportation companies, event servicesSchool districts, transit agencies, private companies

Contract Bus Drivers typically work on a temporary or project basis, often with flexible schedules and varied routes. Full-Time Bus Drivers usually have a set schedule, consistent routes, and employment benefits. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in employment structure and work environment.

More about Contract Bus Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Bus Driver jobs? Cities with the most Contract Bus Driver job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Bus Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Bus Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Bus Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Bus Driver jobs are:
Contract Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,198 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Bus Driver

Bus Driver

Academy Bus

Perth Amboy, NJ • On-site

$26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Academy Bus rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 14 rated coach operators

Job description

ACADEMY BUS is now hiring CDL DRIVERS to operate ON-CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION for our local University contract services in New Brunswick, NJ. Join Academy Bus and be part of our elite team of professional drivers, backed by the best operations, dispatch, and maintenance teams in the transportation industry. Pay is up to $26.00 per hour with a $5000 SIGN ON BONUS. Every Friday is Pay Day! Paid training, paid time off, paid holidays, and supplemental pay. Full benefits available, including FREE MEDICAL BENEFITS for the full-time employee. PAY
  • Up to $26.00 per hour
  • $5000 sign on bonus (Full-time with CDL)
BENEFITS
  • FREE MEDICAL PLAN (Free for the full-time employee. Coverage is available for spouse and dependents.)
  • FREE LIFE INSURANCE (Life Insurance for employee, spouse, and children up to age 26.)
  • 401K PLAN WITH EMPLOYER MATCH ($0.50 per $1.00 up to $1400 per year.)
  • Dental, Vision and Prescription plans available Additional life, accident, hospital, short term disability and long term disability coverage available
  • PAID TIME OFF AND HOLIDAYS FREE UNIFORMS (plus annual replacement vouchers)
  • Paid training
  • Service awards and bonuses
  • Quarterly and annual safety bonuses
REQUIREMENTS
  • CDL
  • Passenger Endorsement
  • No airbrake restrictions
  • Valid DOT medical card
  • Must pass a DOT drug screen
  • Subject to a background check and review of driving record
Health Insurance and Benefits Offered Include:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription, and Life insurance
  • Supplemental coverages
  • 401K plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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