1

First Student Bus Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Dispatcher

Mission Viejo, CA

$26.13 - $35.10/hr

The Dispatcher is responsible for dispatching all buses, ensuring on-time performance of routes, and counseling drivers and monitors on front line. At First Student, we are proud to offer: $26.13 ...

Dispatcher

Mission Viejo, CA ยท On-site

$26.13 - $35.10/hr

... drivers and monitors on front line. At First Student, we are proud to offer: $26.13 - $35.10/hr ... Innovation We were the first school bus company to utilize global positioning systems (GPS), so at ...

Dispatcher

Mission Viejo, CA ยท On-site

$26.13 - $35.10/hr

... drivers and monitors on front line. At First Student, we are proud to offer: $26.13 - $35.10/hr ... Innovation We were the first school bus company to utilize global positioning systems (GPS), so at ...

Dispatcher

Mission Viejo, CA ยท On-site

$26.13 - $35.10/hr

The Dispatcher is responsible for dispatching all buses, ensuring on-time performance of routes, and counseling drivers and monitors on front line. At First Student, we are proud to offer: $26.13 ...

Certificates of completion for pediatric first aid and pediatric CPR training (within 30 days of hire). As a Bus Driver you will: * Pick up and deliver children as scheduled. * Complete and submit ...

Bus Driver

City Of Industry, CA ยท On-site

$24.65/hr

About the Employer Hacienda La Puente Unified School District (HLPUSD) is proud to serve a diverse student population, from Transitional Kindergarten to Adult Education of 31,000 total students. Two ...

Showing results 21-40

First Student Bus Driver information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$21

$31

How much do first student bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student bus driver in Riverside, CA is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a First Student bus driver?

First Student Bus Drivers are professional drivers employed by First Student, a leading provider of school transportation services in North America. Their main responsibility is to safely transport students to and from school, field trips, and other school-related activities. They are trained to follow strict safety protocols, manage student behavior on the bus, and perform routine vehicle inspections. First Student Bus Drivers also maintain communication with school officials and parents to ensure the well-being of students during transit.

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

To thrive as a First Student Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, a clean driving record, and basic vehicle safety knowledge. Familiarity with vehicle inspection protocols, route navigation systems, and compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is essential. Strong communication, patience, and situational awareness are standout soft skills for managing student behavior and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial to provide reliable, safe transportation for students and to uphold company and legal standards.

What are some common challenges First Student bus drivers face during their daily routes, and how are they supported?

First Student Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing student behavior, adapting to varying traffic conditions, and adhering to strict schedules. They receive comprehensive training in student management and defensive driving, and have access to ongoing support from dispatchers and supervisors. The company fosters a team environment, where drivers regularly communicate with each other and staff to share tips and resolve issues. This support system helps drivers maintain safety and efficiency on their routes.

What is the difference between First Student Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectFirst Student Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsementsCDL with passenger and school bus endorsements
Work EnvironmentSchool campuses, bus depots, routes with studentsSchool routes, student pick-up/drop-off points
Employer & IndustryFirst Student, school transportation servicesSchool districts, private transportation companies

Both First Student Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsements and operate in similar environments. The main difference lies in branding and employer, with First Student being a large transportation provider, while School Bus Drivers may work directly for school districts or other companies. Both roles focus on student safety and reliable transportation services.

What disqualifies you from being a First Student Bus Driver?

First Student Bus Driver applicants are typically disqualified if they have a valid driver's license with a poor driving record, including recent accidents or violations, or if they fail background checks and drug screenings. Additionally, candidates must meet age requirements and pass a physical exam; failure to do so can disqualify them from the position.

What are popular job titles related to First Student Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA?

For First Student Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Student Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for First Student Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for First Student Bus Driver jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most First Student Bus Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various First Student Bus Driver job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,707 per year, or $22 per hour.

Bus Driver - Special Students (26-47)

Jurupa Unified

Jurupa Valley, CA โ€ข On-site

$27.12 - $34.67/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

About the Employer
At Jurupa Unified School District, we believe that with a positive mindset, every child can succeed. Our schools and programs are founded on proven educational strategies, supported by the latest research in neuroscience and are designed to promote the personal and academic growth of all students. We empower each child to unlock their potential to achieve in school, career, and life-wherever it takes them.
We call this learning without limits. Learning without limits means our district provides an array of opportunities for each child. Our wide-ranging programs offered in and out of the classroom support and engage students from early childhood through high school. Students cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills, develop resiliency, and are challenged to think creatively -essential qualities for personal development, academic growth, and an individual's sense of achievement at every level.
Our approach is grounded in research and science but would not be possible without the dedication, commitment, and resolve of our compassionate team of educators and staff. Jurupa Unified School District encourages students to grow personally, achieve academically, and unlock their full potential as scholars and people, believing that with a positive mindset, every child can succeed.
Job Description / Essential Elements:
Jurupa Unified School District
BUS DRIVER - SPECIAL STUDENTS
DEFINITION
Under supervision to operate a school bus and transport students over designated routes in compliance with assigned schedules; and to do related work as required. The position of Bus Driver-Special Students is differentiated from Bus Driver in that the majority of bus operation is on a Class II school bus transporting physically handicapped and/or mentally handicapped students. It is further differentiated in that a demonstrated ability to communicate and relate well with physically handicapped and mentally handicapped students is required.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
โ€ข Inspects buses prior to operation in accordance with written rules and regulations.
โ€ข Perform fueling and maintain prescribed levels of fuel of the bus.
โ€ข Drives buses over designated routes.
โ€ข Picks up and discharges students.
โ€ข Operates a wheelchair lift for entry and exit from bus.
โ€ข Secures wheelchairs.
โ€ข Secures physically handicapped students into seats for transport.
โ€ข Assists students on and off buses and escorts them across streets when necessary.
โ€ข Maintains prescribed cleanliness levels of the bus.
โ€ข Prepares and completes required reports.
โ€ข Performs other tasks as required to safely operate a bus in accordance with laws and district policies.
OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS
โ€ข Performs other related duties as assigned.
LICENSE AND CERTIFICATE REQUIRED
A valid appropriate California Driver's License; valid medical card/certificate and verification of First Aid proficiency as required by State law; and a valid California School Bus Driver's Certificate. Must qualify for insurance coverage by the district insurance carrier.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Safe driving practices;
Safe fueling practices;
Provisions of the California Motor Vehicle Code and the Education Code applicable to the operation of vehicles in the transportation of students.
Ability to:
Drive a school bus and other automotive equipment safely and efficiently;
Maintain order among students on a school bus;
Understand and follow oral and written instructions;
Communicate and relate well with physically and mentally handicapped students;
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others;
Work and drive safely.
Meet minimum physical requirements as prescribed by the California Department of Motor Vehicles;
Personnel Services (over)
BUS DRIVER - SPECIAL STUDENTS
Ability to (continued):
Read, understand and follow handwritten or typed documents, including maps;
Communicate effectively with students, parents and staff;
Safely and effectively operate a school bus in known or unexpected traffic and weather conditions; and in spite of loud, disruptive, and distracting student behavior;
Work in a wide range of environmental conditions, such as hot and cold weather, and in proximity to exhaust fumes;
Effectively perform intervention procedures to prevent fights and other altercations;
Deal with hostile, emotional, ill or angry persons in an effective manner;
Assist ill students to a specific location or onto a stretcher, wheelchair or into a vehicle;
Assist disabled students to enter and exit the bus;
Perform multiple tasks at once (such as driving while using the radio, controlling students, etc.);
Stand, stoop, kneel, bend and walk;
Climb slopes, stairs, steps and ladders;
Lift, carry, push and pull heavy objects;
Maintain steady, regular attendance;
Work with various chemical agents and cleaners in a safe and effective manner.
Experience:
One year of experience in the operation of a bus or heavy motor vehicle.
Education:
Completion of the eighth grade or its equivalent.
Personal Qualities:
Sound judgment, patience, willingness to perform job tasks, reliable and dependable.
Personnel Services
January 7, 2002
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Certification (California School Bus Driver's Certificate)
  • CPR/First Aid Certification
  • DMV Printout
  • Driver's License Copy