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Entry Level Bus Driver Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Bus Driver information

See Houston, TX salary details

$8

$18

$27

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

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level bus driver in Houston, TX is $18.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level bus driver?

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 disqualifies you from being an entry level bus driver?

Entry level bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a valid driver's license with a poor driving record, such as multiple traffic violations or DUIs. Additionally, they must pass background checks, drug tests, and a medical exam, and often need to be at least 21 years old and able to operate a commercial vehicle safely.

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.

How hard is it to become an entry level bus driver?

Becoming an entry-level bus driver typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and passing a background check. Candidates often need to complete a training program that covers safety procedures and vehicle operation, which can take a few weeks. Some regions also require a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements, but overall, the process is straightforward for those meeting the basic requirements.

What is an entry level bus driver?

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 Houston, TX? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Houston, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Houston, TX? For Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Entry Level Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX 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 $39,343 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

CONTRACT Part-Time RV Driver (Collab-Lab)

COLLABORATIVE FOR CHILDREN

Houston, TX • On-site

Contractor

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Collaborative is Championing Young Futures
CONTRACT , PART-TIME COMMUNITY RV DRIVER (20 hours/week)
PERFECT FOR RETIRED SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS, TRANSIT DRIVERS, EXPERIENCED RV OPERATORS
REQUIRES DRIVING DURING MON-FRI WEEKDAY HOURS WITH OCCASIONAL WEEKEND EVENTS IN GREATER HOUSTON.
NOT AN ENTRY LEVEL DRIVER POSITION.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Perform driving services for the mobile education unit (Collab-Lab), including service delivery routes, marketing events, and organization sponsored events in the Greater Houston area. Ensure the safety of all program participants and monitor the mobile unit's equipment by performing daily safety checks and limited maintenance, as needed. Provide proactive troubleshooting related to mechanical issues and serve as the liaison contact with internal IT team for resolution.
THE CHALLENGE AND THE OPPORTUNITY:
A child's earliest years shape every milestone that follows: school success, workforce readiness, and economic opportunity. We are creating an ecosystem of the highest quality child care in the communities that need it most, so Houston gains a stronger and better skilled future labor force.
Are YOU ready to help more young children enter kindergarten curious, confident, and ready to learn? THIS is exactly what we do within the community. We bring the learning (mostly STEAM activities) to community neighborhoods with our Collab-Lab! Check out the experience requirements to see if you qualify.
As the contract, part-time driver of the Collab-Lab, some of the essential responsibilities you will handle include:
  • Complete pre-trip RV inspection, including checking the oil, fuel, gas level, brakes, lights, windshield wipers, steering, and water/tire pressures.
  • Ensure that the Collab-Lab is always fueled and ready for use
  • Perform inspections of the Collab-Lab before and after each trip
  • Make timely reports of accidents, incidents, and unusual occurrences.
  • Pre-trip: research and plan for traffic, construction and weather delays
  • Arrive at destinations on schedule
  • Use navigation applications to determine the best routes to destinations
  • Interact with families and Collab staff professionally at all times
  • Coordinate with IT Manager for vehicle repairs as needed and consult with event supervisor
  • Obey all traffic laws
  • Maintain a clean and mechanically sound vehicle at all times, including interior sanitizing
  • Ability to perform emergency RV evacuation safely for children, caregivers and Collab staff, including the ability to climb in and out of the emergency door
  • Practice safety techniques in lifting, climbing and performing other job duties
  • Administer basic first aid as trained, when necessary
  • Ensure proper condition of emergency equipment such as first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and reflector(s)
  • Assist Collab-Lab staff, as needed at scheduled venues

THE MUST HAVES:
  • Minimum High school diploma or GED
  • Minimum of at least 3 years as a driver of large vehicles (35 feet +) and handling similar duties and responsibilities specified
  • TXDL Class C driver license required (CDL- Class B not required, but desired)
  • Must be trained in RV driving techniques, inclusive of safety and operating protocols
  • State Bus Driver's Certification course preferred
  • Knowledge of basic vehicle inspection and maintenance, including tire pressure, checking oil and water levels
  • Possess ability to troubleshoot mechanical and electrical failures
  • Ability to read and interpret routes and maps
  • Possess sound judgment in evaluating safety situations and seek resolution and when to escalate issues
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification highly preferred, or willingness to be trained/certified
  • High level of self-management, approachability and adaptability to changing circumstances
  • Must possess the ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing
  • Experience with vehicle maintenance recordkeeping beneficial
  • Ability to understand and follow safety procedures
  • Clear driving record per Texas Department of Public Safety, including no moving violations within last three (3) years, no DUI/DWI convictions (no time limit), and no more than two (2) accident convictions (no time limit)
  • State Bus Driver's Certification course preferred
  • Second language fluency helpful
  • Prior experience trouble shooting technology and RV functionality helpful
  • Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to twist the upper body and neck while driving, including driving in reverse
  • Work positions include kneeling and climbing, with extended reach above head (12 inches) and extended reach in front of body (14 inches)
  • Physical exertion includes bending, pushing, standing, and walking. Must be able to move or lift approximately 25 pounds (i.e. steps on the Collab-Lab, program supplies) numerous times per shift
  • Ability to hear, see and speak with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Good vision and hearing acuity (with glasses and hearing aids, if necessary)
  • Ability to recognize the colors of traffic signals and devices showing standard red, green and amber
  • Ability to pass drug/alcohol pre-employment screening, random, post-accident and/or reasonable suspicion basis, in accordance with law
  • Ability to pass DOT physical
  • Minimum age: 22 years old
  • Weekly driving may be up to 20 hours in a Monday - Friday schedule
  • Must have schedule flexibility to drive non-standard weekday hours, split shift, including in early evening, as well as occasional weekend hours as Collab events necessitate
  • Advance notice is always provided related to upcoming event dates/times
  • Must have reliable, personal transportation
  • Must have a valid Texas Driver's License, inclusive of classification to drive an RV
  • Must have current personal vehicle insurance coverage

THE SPECIFICS - PAY AND HOURS:
  • Driving hours: dependent on commitments for Collab-Lab to be at certain locations in Greater Houston.
  • Compensation: This is a CONTRACT, paid by the hour, Part-Time position. Based on experience, hourly rate is $15 - 20. Paid bi-weekly with receipt of invoice.

If interested in this position, please go to www.collabforchildren.org. In the Careers section, you will see the posted position. Fully complete the application and sign. Upload a resume. When the application is fully completed, you will automatically receive an email acknowledgement. If hiring manager feels your experience closely aligns with position needs, you will be contacted for next steps.

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