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Federal Bus Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lake County Schools Consortium

Bus Driver

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Clean driving record required, and mandatory annual and federal random drug testing. TITLE: BUS DRIVER DEPARTMENT: Transportation REPORTS TO: Director of Transportation SUPERVISES: N/A PURPOSE OF ...

School City of Hobart

Bus Driver

Hobart, IN · On-site

$22.50/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 3/11/2026 Location: Service Center Closing Date: Filled as ... Follow all applicable federal/state regulations and district procedures, including railroad ...

School City of Hobart

Bus Driver

Hobart, IN · On-site

$22.50/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 3/11/2026 Location: Service Center Closing Date: Filled as ... Follow all applicable federal/state regulations and district procedures, including railroad ...

School City of Hobart

Bus Driver

Hobart, IN · On-site

$22.50/hr

Bus Driver School City of Hobart Seeking Bus Drivers for the School City of Hobart. Positions are ... Follow all applicable federal/state regulations and district procedures, including railroad ...

Lake County Schools Consortium

Bus Driver

Libertyville, IL

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Bus Driver contact JackieLaske@bighollow.us for any questions Job Summary: * Responsible for ... Follow traffic laws and state and federal transit regulations * Follow safety procedures to make ...

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Bus Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.90 - $18.45/hr

As a Bus Driver, you will transport children and/or adults for various programs and trips for the ... federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Skokie, IL

$27/hr

As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of ... Federal, state, and local requirements, including U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Glenwood, IL · On-site

$26.75/hr

As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of ... Federal, state, and local requirements, including U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT ...

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Federal Bus Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$8

$20

$29

How much do federal bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for federal bus driver in Chicago, IL is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal bus driver?

Federal bus drivers are professional drivers employed by government agencies or federal contractors to operate buses for the transportation of people. They may work for organizations like the Department of Defense, National Park Service, or other federal entities, transporting employees, military personnel, or the public. Their responsibilities include safely operating buses, adhering to schedules, checking vehicle condition, and ensuring passenger safety in compliance with federal regulations. Federal bus drivers typically need a commercial driver's license (CDL) and may require additional clearances depending on the agency. These positions can offer stable employment with federal benefits and structured work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal bus driver?

To thrive as a Federal Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of federal transportation regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, vehicle inspection tools, and safety compliance software is typically required. Excellent communication, reliability, and strong situational awareness are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, punctual service, and adherence to government standards.

What are some common challenges faced by federal bus drivers, and how are they typically addressed?

Federal bus drivers often face challenges such as adhering to strict schedules, managing routes in high-security or restricted-access areas, and ensuring the safety of all passengers. They must navigate varying traffic conditions while following federal regulations and protocols. To manage these challenges, drivers receive thorough training in defensive driving, route planning, and emergency procedures, and they work closely with dispatchers and security personnel to address any issues that arise during their shifts.

What is the difference between Federal Bus Driver vs Commercial Bus Driver?

AspectFederal Bus DriverCommercial Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Passenger endorsement, Federal background checksCDL, Passenger endorsement, State-specific background checks
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, federal facilities, military basesPrivate companies, charter services, tour operators
Employer & Industry UsageFederal government, military, transportation agenciesPrivate transportation companies, tour companies

Federal Bus Drivers typically work for government agencies and require federal background checks and specific certifications, whereas Commercial Bus Drivers often work for private companies with state-level requirements. Both roles involve passenger transportation but differ mainly in employer type and work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Federal Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Federal Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Federal Bus Driver jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Federal Bus Driver job openings:

Federal Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Bus Driver job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,440 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Bus Driver

Merrillville Community School Corporation

Merrillville, IN

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must have or willing to obtain a Valid Indiana Commercial Drivers License with School Bus Certification.
  • Must pass the physical examination under requirements of IC 20-9-1, and to include passing a drug screening and extensive criminal background.
  • Complete 32 hours of training with the driver trainer.
  • Attend the state-sponsored 3-day safety meeting.
  • Proven ability to operate all equipment on the bus.
  • Read and interpret materials, such as safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality
  • Successful interview with Administrative Supervisor and/or Building Administrator

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Operate Class B motor vehicle
  • Conduct a pre-trip inspection of the vehicle prior to each trip.
  • Maintain adequate fuel.
  • Report defects and malfunctions IAW established procedures.
  • Maintain clean bus exterior; maintain bus in the condition that will pass state police inspection at all times.
  • Operate bus in accordance with established federal, state, and local procedures.
  • Be knowledgeable of, and comply with, all applicable laws, ordinances, rules, and procedures relative to the operation and use of school buses.
  • Must maintain safety, order, and discipline aboard the bus.
  • Complete required reports.
  • Operate 2-way radio in accordance with federal, local, and state regulations.
  • Other duties as assigned by the Director of Transportation and/or Assistant to the Director of Transportation.