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First Student Bus Driver Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

First Student is hiring an Auto Body Mechanic in Batavia, NY! Starting Pay Rate: $24.00 hr ... Bonus rate $.25 per hr. for each ASE School Bus Series test passed and maintained (up to $2.00 more ...

First Student is hiring an Auto Body Mechanic in Batavia, NY! Starting Pay Rate: $24.00 hr ... From our school bus drivers and location managers to routers, dispatchers and fleet technician ...

First Student is hiring an Auto Body Mechanic in Batavia, NY! Starting Pay Rate: $24.00 hr ... From our school bus drivers and location managers to routers, dispatchers and fleet technician ...

First Student is hiring an Auto Body Mechanic in Batavia, NY! Starting Pay Rate: $24.00 hr ... Bonus rate $.25 per hr. for each ASE School Bus Series test passed and maintained (up to $2.00 more ...

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First Student Bus Driver information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$9

$20

$29

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

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student bus driver in Rochester, NY is $20.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Student Bus Driver, and why are they important?

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 school bus drivers get paid for the entire day?

First Student bus drivers are typically paid for the hours they work, which usually include morning and afternoon routes. They are generally not paid for the entire day if they are not scheduled to work beyond their driving shifts. Pay may also include time for pre-trip inspections and other duties related to their route.

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.

How many hours do first student bus drivers work?

First Student bus drivers typically work part-time or full-time schedules that range from 20 to 40 hours per week, often aligned with school start and end times. Overtime may be available, and schedules can vary based on routes and district needs. Drivers are usually required to complete safety training and hold a valid commercial driver's license (CDL).

What are First Student Bus Drivers?

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.

Does First Student pay for your CDL?

First Student bus drivers are typically responsible for obtaining their Commercial Driver's License (CDL) before starting. The company may offer training programs or assistance with CDL costs, but policies vary by location. It's best to check with your local branch for specific support options related to CDL expenses.

How much does First Student pay bus drivers in California?

First Student bus drivers in California typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $16 to $22, depending on experience, location, and shift. Starting pay may be lower, with opportunities for raises and benefits such as health insurance and paid training. Wages are often aligned with industry standards for school bus drivers in the state.

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 are popular job titles related to First Student Bus Driver jobs in Rochester, NY? For First Student Bus Driver jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for First Student Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most First Student Bus Driver job openings:
School Bus Driver Trainee - 2026-2027 School Year

School Bus Driver Trainee - 2026-2027 School Year

Greece Central School District

North Greece, NY

$16/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Drive a school bus or vehicle on a regular schedule on an assigned route or on special occasions.

  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the vehicle and report all defects to the supervisor.

  • Instruct or inform passengers about safety practices and procedures and maintain safe and orderly conduct on the bus or vehicle.


Greece Central School District rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

151st of 558 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

The Greece Central School District believes that all students benefit from a culture where diversity, inclusion, and equity with excellence are valued. Greece Central School District welcomes stakeholders who can collaborate with other staff to ensure that our policies, regulations, practices, programs and services promote equity, inclusion, and diversity.
Salary: $16.00/hr Per Non-Unit Rate Sheet
Report Times: Vary
Daily Hours: Vary
Work Year:  2026 - 2027
Supervisor: Executive Director for Student Transportation
Minimum Requirements: 
Possession of a valid New York State driver's license appropriate to the vehicle(s) operated.
Once properly trained the School Bus Driver Trainee must meet all State and Federal pre-employment requirements of the position prior to employment including the appropriate driver's license for the vehicle being operated. It is the jurisdiction's responsibility for ensuring the employees possess valid licenses appropriate to the type of vehicle(s) being operated.
Desired Qualifications: 
See Attachment.
Position Summary/Responsibilities: 
Once properly trained and fully licensed as a School Bus Driver
(All need not be performed in a given position.  Other related activities may be performed although not listed.)
Drives a school bus/vehicle on a regular schedule on an assigned route or on special occasions; 
Performs a pre-trip inspection of the vehicle prior to departure and post-trip inspection after every route; 
Reports all defects, mechanical and other, of the bus/vehicle to the supervisor; 
Instructs or informs passengers about safety practices and procedures when embarking and disembarking bus/vehicle, while in transit, and throughout the year; 
Maintains safe and orderly conduct on the bus/vehicle, including student management; 
Assists passengers in boarding and exiting a bus/vehicle by providing physical assistance or operating a hydraulic lift; 
Cleans and fuels assigned vehicles daily; 
Operates a van, station wagon, or similar vehicle to transport objects.
Questions regarding this posting should be directed to:
Name: Cynthia Webb
Title: Driver Trainer/Safety Coordinator
Email: Cynthia.Webb@greececsd.org
All new employees must be fingerprinted and cleared for employment through the NYSED before employment begins.
The Greece Central School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, ancestry, age, disability, or any other status protected by law.
To find out more about what Greece Central School District has to offer our employees, please click here.
 









































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