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

Bus Attendant

Fairport, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $18.19/hr

Accompanies bus drivers on days when school is in session over designated routes in accordance with time schedules, loading and unloading students at designated locations. * Maintains order and ...

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 ...

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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 9, 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.

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 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.

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:

$24/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position: General Mechanic/Bus Driver position for the Transportation Department
 

Full-Time 10-month position

This is a skilled mechanic position responsible for performing automotive maintenance and repair tasks to all school buses and other vehicles owned by the school district to keep them in a safe and operable condition. Employees may work under unpleasant working conditions, including extremes of heat, cold, noxious fumes and odors, wet, damp, and cramped working areas. Employees are required to serve as a substitute and/or an assigned AM and PM route school bus driver for the school district. The employee reports directly to and works under general direction from a Transportation Director, Head Automotive Mechanic, or other higher level staff person for difficult or costly repairs. Supervision is not a responsibility of this class. Does related work as required.

Performance Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Personal Characteristics

Good knowledge of the principles of automotive mechanics and the repair of buses and trucks including systems and parts operation and interrelationships, systems, and parts functions; good knowledge of the methods and practices involved in repairs to automotive systems, of preventative maintenance practices and techniques, of automotive tools, equipment, and parts and of State Department of Transportation rules and regulations governing the repair and maintenance of school buses. Ability to read automotive manuals, schematics, and work orders, to follow oral and written directions, to repair engines and rebuild subassemblies, to diagnose minor problems of all systems and safely operate a school bus. Ability to get along well with others; dependability; manual dexterity; strength; mechanical aptitude; thoroughness; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from high school or possession of an equivalency diploma, plus EITHER:

(A) Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Automotive Mechanics or a closely related field; OR,

(B) Two (2) years paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience as an automotive mechanic or heavy equipment mechanic under the supervision of a journeyman level mechanic; OR,

(C) One (1) year paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience as an independent automotive mechanic or independent heavy equipment mechanic; OR,

(D) Any equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A), (B) and (C) above.

Special Requirement

Possession of a valid CDL Class B Driver's license or permit with appropriate endorsements for school bus driving at time of appointment. Must obtain CDL B/PS within 90 days of hire.

Completion of New York State Basic 30-hour School Bus Driver Instructional Program within first year of employment.

Candidates will be required to pass a physical examination, Physical Performance Standards test, Federally Mandated Pre-Employment drug testing, Criminal Background check and DMV Article 19A Certification testing to determine ability to perform the job.

Possession of own hand tools recommended
 

Salary: From $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Pension

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

  • Automotive Repair: 2 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Skills:

  • Diesel engines
  • Mechanic experience
  • Brakes