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First Student Bus Driver Jobs in Springfield, IL

First Student

FirstAlt Operations Rep l

Springfield, IL

$55K - $65K/yr

Follow all First Student policies and procedures while providing the best customers service to our ... van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are ...

National Express Corp

Bus Assistant

Taylorville, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

To support the safe and reliable transportation of students by assisting the bus driver with the movement, management and care of students while they are being transported to an assigned destination ...

National Express Corp

Bus Assistant

Taylorville, IL

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

To support the safe and reliable transportation of students by assisting the bus driver with the movement, management and care of students while they are being transported to an assigned destination ...

Springfield Urban League

Bus Monitor

Springfield, IL · On-site

The Bus Monitor is responsible for assisting the School Bus Driver in notifying parents of ... Must be able to obtain a CPR Certification and First Aid Certification. * Must be able to lift at ...

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All JobsFirst Student Bus Driver JobsFirst Student Bus Driver Jobs in Springfield, IL

First Student Bus Driver information

See Springfield, IL salary details

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

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student bus driver in Springfield, IL is $20.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $24.04 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 Springfield, IL? For First Student Bus Driver jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Student Bus Driver jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for First Student Bus Driver jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for First Student Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most First Student Bus Driver job openings:
First Student Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Student Bus Driver job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,422 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

School Bus Driver - No Exp Needed - Training Provided (Taylorville, IL)

Summit School Services

Rochester, IL

$24 - $26/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description


Job Requirements
School Bus Driver - Paid CDL Training
Immediately hiring School Bus Drivers in Taylorville, IL Paid CDL training , flexible hours, no nights or weekends, and a chance to make a difference every day.
Looking for a flexible, rewarding job close to home? Durham School Services is now hiring part-time and seasonal School Bus Drivers in Taylorville, IL. This is your chance to join a trusted, safety-focused transportation provider where your work makes a real difference for students, families, and the community.
• Pay: $24.00-$26.00/hr
  • Hiring Bonus: $4,000 for fully credentialed drivers and $1500 non-credentialed drivers

• Guaranteed Hours: 20 hours per week/ 4 hrs per day
• Location: Durham School Services 407 S. Baughman Rd., Taylorville, IL 62568
Walk-In Interviews:
  • Today: 9am-12pm
  • Next Week: Mondays -Fridays 9am-12pm

Why Join Durham School Services?
  • Competitive hourly pay with weekly direct deposit
  • Paid CDL training - We'll help you get your permit + pay you to train!
  • Flexible part-time schedule with split shifts (morning & afternoon)
  • No nights, weekends, or holidays - perfect work-life balance
  • Seasonal employment option with summers off
  • Guaranteed minimum hours with opportunities for extra routes and field trips
  • Access to benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) (plan details vary by location) Eligible locations may also offer sign-on, attendance, or referral bonuses - ask us for details! A supportive, family-oriented work environment where safety is our #1 priority

Who Makes a Great School Bus Driver?
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds:
  • New to commercial driving - we provide paid CDL training
  • Experienced drivers (CDL-A/B, delivery, shuttle, transit)
  • Veterans & military service members
  • Parents, retirees, and those seeking part-time or split-shift work
  • Customer service , retail, hospitality, camp counselors, coaches, school support staff, Medical transport drivers, nursing home drivers, patient transfer specialists, trades & mechanics

Responsibilities:
  • Safely operate a school bus on assigned local routes
  • Transport students to and from school, sports, and events
  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections
  • Maintain a clean, safe bus environment
  • Communicate courteously with students, parents, and school staff
  • Follow all federal, state, local, and company safety rules

Requirements:
  • Valid driver 's license with a clean driving record (no CDL needed to start).
  • Must have held a driver 's license for at least 3 years (5 years if applying in Tennessee).
  • Minimum age: 21 (25 in Tennessee).If you've held a DOT-regulated driving role in the past 3 years, we must be able to verify that employment per DOT guidelines.
  • Pass DOT drug screen, physical, and background check
  • Compliance with DOT regulations (marijuana prohibited, even for medical use)
  • Reliable attendance & safety -first attitude

At Durham School Services, safety, reliability, and community are at the heart of what we do. Every day, our professional drivers safely transport students to and from school, field trips, and extracurricular activities while enjoying flexible, rewarding careers with industry-leading training and benefits.
Company name is: Durham School Services
Pay range for routed drivers is $24.00-$26.00 per hour Paid Training at $15 per hour 4,000 Hiring bonus for Fully Credentialed Drivers Employees are eligible for Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act (PLAWA)
Qualifications
Qualifications
Requirements:
  • Valid driver 's license with a clean driving record (no CDL needed to start).
  • Must have held a driver 's license for at least 3 years (5 years if applying in Tennessee).
  • Minimum age: 21 (25 in Tennessee).If you've held a DOT-regulated driving role in the past 3 years, we must be able to verify that employment per DOT guidelines.
  • Pass DOT drug screen, physical, and background check
  • Compliance with DOT regulations (marijuana prohibited, even for medical use)
  • Reliable attendance & safety -first attitude

At Durham School Services, safety, reliability, and community are at the heart of what we do. Every day, our professional drivers safely transport students to and from school, field trips, and extracurricular activities while enjoying flexible, rewarding careers with industry-leading training and benefits.
Company name is: Durham School Services

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