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

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 ...

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First Student Bus Driver information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

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$31

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

As of Aug 15, 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 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.

Do First Student bus drivers get paid for the entire day?

First Student bus drivers are typically paid for the hours they work, which usually include their scheduled routes and any required training or prep time. They are generally not paid for the entire day if they are not actively working, but pay policies can vary by location and employment agreement. Overtime and additional hours may also be compensated according to company policies and labor laws.

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 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 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 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 clean driving record, no serious criminal convictions, or a history of drug or alcohol violations. Additionally, candidates must pass background checks, a drug screening, and a physical exam, and must be able to meet the physical demands of the job, including good vision and hearing. Failure to meet these requirements can disqualify a candidate from becoming a bus driver.

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 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 42% Full Time, and 58% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,707 per year, or $22 per hour.

Bus Driver

Hacienda La Puente Unified

City Of Industry, CA โ€ข On-site

$24.65/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

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 of our schools have been designated as National Blue Ribbon School, 13 Gold Ribbon Schools, and three high schools that have been honored in the U.S. News and World Report among the best high schools in the nation. HLPUSD continues to provide students with innovative programs such as our CSBA Golden Bell Award-winning dual immersion program. The District also operates the second largest adult education program in the state, offering career development in programs that range from culinary arts to certified nursing assistant, automotive repair, and much more. Our employees have received a combined 12% salary increase for the 2019-2022 years and Forbes recognized HLPUSD as the 41st Best Employer in CA! We are excited to have you apply to become a member of our HLPUSD family.
Job Summary
Under general supervision of the administrator of the Transportation department, operates school buses on regularly scheduled passenger routes transporting students and school groups to and from schools, events, and on special field trips, in accordance with requirements of school transportation schedules and traffic laws.
Requirements / Qualifications