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Entry Level Bus Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Bus Driver information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$8

$20

$29

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level bus driver in Riverside, CA is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.32 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA 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 Riverside, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,980 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Van Driver - DMV Driver Record Required, 8 Hour Split Shift

Lake Elsinore Unified School District

Lake Elsinore, CA • On-site

$20.66/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
Under the direction of Director of Transportation or designee, a Van Driver transports passengers to and from schools, offices, and other locations as scheduled in a District van or district approved vehicle with up to nine passengers.
The Van Driver classification is the entry level class in the Transportation Services Division. This classification is distinguished from other classifications in Transportation Services by the vehicle size, number of passengers transported, and qualifications and clearances required, as compared to Bus Driver.
Requirements / Qualifications
Comments and Other Information
You must have a valid email address. You will be notified for testing and interviews via the email address you provide on your application. Please check your email regularly or you may miss important communications notifying you of testing and/or interviews for this recruitment.
CURRENT CSEA EMPLOYEES are subject to the Article 13 Language Change when applying for positions posted after October 11, 2024.
• A unit member seeking a voluntary lateral transfer (posting is for the same job title you currently hold) must be a permanent employee for at least two years prior to the date of the posted vacancy.
• Unit members granted a voluntary lateral transfer shall wait one year from the date of transfer before applying for another voluntary lateral transfer (posting is for the same job title you currently hold).
• Unit members currently serving a probationary period (including a promotional probationary period) shall not be eligible for a voluntary lateral transfer (same job title as posting)
• If three or more eligible unit members apply within this posting, with the same job title as the posting, all other candidates shall be excluded from the interview process.
• Voluntary lateral transfers may be denied based on poor job performance as evidenced by an overall "Needs to Improve" or "Unsatisfactory" rating on the most recent performance evaluation, two or more "N"s and/or one or more "U"s on the most recent evaluation, unjustified excessive absenteeism (without an approved leave per Article 10). Leave entitlement usage shall be prorated to the date of the job posting, and/or disciplinary actions with 1 year prior to the date of the posted vacancy.
NOTE: When fewer than three eligible lateral transfer (same job title as on posting) applications are submitted, interview priority will be given to current employees in the same job family of the posted vacancy.
Offer of employment conditional pending pre-employment physical, fingerprints and negative drug screen, and TB test
Bargaining Unit Position

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