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Entry Level Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Fresno, CA

Bus Mechanic I

Fresno, CA · On-site

$67K - $81K/yr

... entry level class in a flexibly-staffed series, incumbents are expected to progress with ... Additional Requirements Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License is required at ...

City of Fresno

Bus Mechanic I

Fresno, CA

$67K - $81K/yr

... entry level class in a flexibly-staffed series, incumbents are expected to progress with ... Additional Requirements Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License is required at ...

hallcon

Bus Maintenance Mechanic

South San Francisco, CA

$30 - $38.50/hr

This role includes skilled, semi-skilled, or entry level mechanical work that focuses on servicing ... Possession of a valid Class B California Commercial Driver's License with Passenger and Airbrake ...

Aurora Innovation

Software Engineer I

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$116K - $174K/yr

Write and maintain C++ interfaces and drivers that integrate Lidars, Radars, Cameras, and other ... Understanding of CAN bus protocols or Automotive Ethernet basics. * Safety Mindset: Familiarity ...

company1037

Diesel Tech Mechanic

Brawley, CA · On-site

$25/hr

... entry-level apprentices to seasoned master mechanics. Our technicians work on a variety of heavy ... Diagnose multiplexing/CAN bus communication failures and intermittent electrical issues. * Perform ...

Sfo

Fleet Maintenance Mechanic

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$50.56/hr

... and bus fleets. This role includes skilled, semi-skilled, or entry level mechanical work that ... Possession of a valid Class B California Commercial Driver's License with Passenger and Airbrake ...

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All JobsBus Driver JobsEntry Level Bus Driver JobsEntry Level Bus Driver Jobs in California

Entry Level Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do entry level bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level bus driver in California is $19.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), safe driving skills, and a good driving record. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, basic vehicle maintenance, and compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations are typically required. Strong communication, patience, and customer service skills help in managing passenger interactions and maintaining a positive environment. These skills ensure passenger safety, efficient operations, and a high standard of service on every route.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level bus drivers during their first year on the job?

Entry level bus drivers often face challenges such as learning complex routes, managing schedules, and adapting to traffic conditions. Additionally, they need to develop strong customer service skills to handle passenger inquiries and resolve conflicts calmly. Navigating the safety protocols and maintaining punctuality can also be challenging at first, but most employers provide thorough training and support to help new drivers succeed. Building confidence and familiarity with the job typically comes with experience and ongoing feedback from supervisors.

What is the difference between Entry Level Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectEntry Level Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, often specific to school buses
Work EnvironmentPublic transportation, private companies, or shuttle servicesSchool campuses, student transportation
Employer & Industry UsageTransit agencies, private transport servicesSchool districts, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver

Both roles require a CDL with passenger endorsement and involve transporting passengers. The main difference is that School Bus Drivers specifically transport students within school districts, often following school schedules, while Entry Level Bus Drivers may work in various public or private transportation settings. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position aligned with their certifications and work environment preferences.

What are entry level bus drivers?

Entry level bus drivers are individuals who have recently started working in the bus driving profession, typically with minimal or no prior professional driving experience. They are responsible for safely operating buses along designated routes, picking up and dropping off passengers, and adhering to traffic laws and schedules. Entry level drivers usually undergo training to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) and learn about safety procedures, route navigation, and customer service. These positions are ideal for those looking to begin a career in transportation. Entry level bus drivers often work for public transit agencies, schools, or private companies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in California? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in California? For Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Bus Driver jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Bus Driver job openings:
Entry Level Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Bus Driver job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,658 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Temporary School Bus Driver - KEEP (Central Coast of California)

Temporary School Bus Driver - KEEP (Central Coast of California)

Kern County Superintendent of Schools

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$24.29/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
Under general supervision, to operate a school bus or transportation vehicle over designated routes within an established time schedule; to transport students and staff to designated sites and to KEEP campuses; to perform daily inspections of a bus or transportation equipment; to do other related work as required. This position is seasonal and as such works a limited schedule based on the needs of the program.
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Certificate Copy (School Bus Driver's Certificate)
  • CPR/First Aid Certification (CPR/First Aid Certification)
  • Driver's License Copy (Class B License)
  • Other (Medical Certificate issued by CHP)

Comments and Other Information
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
A preplacement medical assessment/health screening, at office expense, is a condition of appointment after all other required job conditions have been met. Must maintain proof of privately owned automobile insurance and possess a valid California Motor Vehicle operator's license. Possession of a valid Class B, Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Possession of a School Bus Driver's Certificate, with medical certificate, issued by the California Highway Patrol, including passage of a first aid examination. Fingerprint clearance by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the California Department of Justice is a condition of appointment after all other required job conditions have been met. Must present verification of completion of Child Abuse Mandated Reporter training or obtain verification within six (6) weeks of hire and annually thereafter, as required by the California Child Abuse Neglect Reporting Act. For entry-level positions, veterans shall be allowed an additional credit of five points to their composite score. A copy of your DD-214 must be submitted at the time of application to receive veteran's credit.
"The Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying based on actual or perceived ancestry, age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital or parental status or association with a person or a group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics".

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