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First Student Bus Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Long Beach School District

Bus Driver

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

The School Bus Driver is the first person to greet students on their journey to school each day, and they are the last person the students see in the afternoon. It is imperative for this person to ...

Calipatria Unified

Bus Driver

Calipatria, CA · On-site

$23.84/hr

Transport students and others to and from school, field trips, athletic contests and other special ... first aid in emergency situations and take other appropriate action as needed; fuel, sweep, wash ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

Pick up and drop off students at designated bus stops * Follow all traffic laws and safety regulations * Conduct regular vehicle safety inspections and report any maintenance or repair issues ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

Pick up and drop off students at designated bus stops * Follow all traffic laws and safety regulations * Conduct regular vehicle safety inspections and report any maintenance or repair issues ...

FIRST CLASS CHARTER INC

Bus Driver

Hayward, CA · On-site

$175/day

Pick up and drop off students at designated bus stops * Follow all traffic laws and safety regulations * Conduct regular vehicle safety inspections and report any maintenance or repair issues ...

Dry Creek Joint Elementary

Bus Driver

Roseville, CA · On-site

$26.99 - $32.81/hr

... transporting students; - methods of maintaining order in a diplomatic manner; - knowledge of first aid practices. Ability to: - drive a school bus and other automotive equipment safely and ...

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All JobsFirst Student Bus JobsFirst Student Bus Jobs in California

First Student Bus information

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How much do first student bus jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student bus in California is $20.79, 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 school bus driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a school bus driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with vehicle inspection procedures and communication systems such as two-way radios is typically required, and some employers may require completion of specialized training programs. Patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for managing student behavior and maintaining a safe environment. These skills and qualifications ensure the safety and well-being of students while promoting reliable and efficient transportation services.

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

AspectFirst Student BusSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentSchool buses, transportation depots, routes with studentsSchool buses, routes with students, often daily
Employer & IndustryFirst Student, school transportation servicesSchool districts, private transportation companies

Both roles require a CDL with passenger endorsement and involve transporting students in a school setting. First Student Bus is a company that employs school bus drivers, while School Bus Driver is a general job title for individuals performing this role across various employers. The main difference lies in the employment context, but the job duties and certifications are similar.

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 during early mornings and afternoons to accommodate school routes. Overtime may be available, and schedules depend on route needs and state regulations; drivers usually need a commercial driver's license (CDL) and a clean driving record.

How much does First bus pay?

First Student Bus driver salaries typically range from $14 to $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and shift. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, with pay increasing with seniority and additional certifications such as a commercial driver's license (CDL).

What is the youngest age to be a bus driver?

For a First Student Bus driver position, the minimum age is typically 21 years old, as most school bus companies require drivers to be at least 21 to ensure sufficient experience and legal driving age. Candidates usually need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, along with a clean driving record. Age requirements can vary by state or district, so it's important to check local regulations and company policies.

What does a First Student Bus driver do?

A First Student Bus driver is responsible for safely transporting students to and from school and related events. Their duties include conducting pre-trip inspections, ensuring the safety of all passengers, following traffic laws, and maintaining a clean and orderly bus environment. Drivers also communicate with students, parents, and school officials to ensure a positive transportation experience. They play a crucial role in student safety and punctuality.

What are some common challenges faced by school bus drivers at First Student, and how are they supported in overcoming them?

School bus drivers at First Student may encounter challenges such as managing diverse student behavior, adapting to changing weather or traffic conditions, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols. The company provides comprehensive training programs, access to experienced supervisors, and ongoing support to help drivers handle these situations effectively. Additionally, drivers are part of a team environment where they can share experiences and best practices with peers, ensuring they feel supported and prepared each day.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

First Student Bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a valid driver's license with a clean driving record, do not have a criminal background, and can pass a drug and alcohol test. Additionally, they must meet health and vision requirements and be able to handle the physical demands of the job, such as prolonged sitting and safety procedures.
What are popular job titles related to First Student Bus jobs in California? For First Student Bus jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Student Bus jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for First Student Bus jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for First Student Bus jobs? Cities in California with the most First Student Bus job openings:
First Student Bus jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Student Bus job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 26% Full Time, 70% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,238 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Bus Driver

Bus Driver

Mountain View Whisman School District

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$30.66 - $41.11/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Maintenance and Transportation/Bus Driver
Date Posted:
4/28/2026
Location:
All sites
Date Available:
07/08/2026
Closing Date:
until filled
Start date: July 8, 2026
Compensation:
Salary Range: $30.66/hour - $41.11/hour (New employees to the District, no higher than Step 6 $39.14)
*Based on the 2026-27 Classified Salary Schedule
Employment contingent upon background check and Post-Offer Pre-Employment Physical (POPP)
Position Description
Under the supervision of the Director of Maintenance and Operations and/or Designee, the Bus Driver operates a school bus over designated routes to transport students.
Qualifications
Maintain a valid State of California Commercial Driver's License Class A or B with appropriate passenger, and school bus endorsement
Maintain a valid and appropriate California Special Driver Certificate (DL45), unrestricted except for #1-Automatic Transmission only and #6-First Aid Test Waived
Maintain a valid First Aid Card and Medical Examiner's Certificate issued by an authorized agency
Attend in-services and training required to maintain licenses and certificates.
Compliance with District policy and US Department of Transportation's drug and alcohol testing regulations, including random, reasonable suspicion, and post-accident testing.
Maintain a safe driving record in accordance with the requirements of the California Department of Motor Vehicles is required.
Must successfully pass the District's pre-employment Department of Justice and FBI Live Scan fingerprinting requirements.
Must successfully pass the District's pre-employment tuberculosis testing.
Education/Experience
Adequate educational background to successfully complete the examination for school bus drivers given by the Department of Motor Vehicles and the California Highway Patrol. Two years of Class A or B driving experience, preferably to include school buses.
Skills/Abilities
Drive a school bus and transport students safely
Maintain order and discipline among students while driving a school bus
Recognize equipment malfunctions and take appropriate action
Observe safe, legal and defensive driving practices
Remain current concerning rules, regulations, policies and laws
Understand and follow verbal and written directions
Maintain cooperative working relationships
Comply with the physical/mental demands as described on the ADA profile
Maintain valid medical certification as determined by DOT physicals (ref. 82.7)
Knowledge
Of electronic web-based routing software
Air brake systems.
Of provisions of the California Motor Vehicle Code and laws applicable to the operation of vehicles in the transportation of students
Of child guidance practices related to students with special needs.Of sections of the California Education Code applicable to the operation of vehicles in the transportation of school children
Of specialized first aid and sanitation procedures for individual student disabilities, as required
Of basic preventative maintenance requirements of school bus equipment
Examples of Duties & Responsibilities
Drives bus daily over designated routes in accordance with time schedules
Picks up and discharges students, and when necessary, escort students across streets stopping traffic using flashing red lights and and held stop sign
Assist students as needed in boarding, buckling, and loading, securing and unloading students in wheelchairs as assigned by the position.
Keeps route charts up-to-date
Maintains order and discipline among students while driving a school bus
Follows district policies regarding the disciplining of children and in contacts with staff, parents, and the public in general
Transport students/teachers on field trips, explain emergency procedures, determine routes and follow scheduled departure and arrival times
Utilize two-way radios for bus to bus and bus to base communications
Perform pre-trip and post trip inspections to maintain bus in a safe operating condition through including cleaning windows, mirrors and bus interior; check and maintain fuel, oil and water levels; check brakes, brake lights and doors; check tires and battery; report mechanical defects and malfunctions to appropriate personnel
Maintain assigned vehicle in a clean condition by following standard procedures for bus washing and interior cleaning
Prepare and maintain a variety of required records/reports
Performs other related duties as assigned
Physical Demands
(Note: Terms used in this section are defined as follows: Rarely - 1 to 10%; occasionally - 11 to 33%; Frequently - 34 to 66%; and Continuously - 67 to 100% of the work day)
Sitting: Continuously
Standing/Walking: Occasionally
Waist bending: Frequently
Neck bending: Frequently
Squatting: Frequently
Climbing: Continuously
Kneeling: Rarely
Crawling: Rarely
Neck Twisting: Occasionally to Frequently
Waist Twisting: Occasionally to Frequently
Pushing/Pulling: Occasionally up to 40-60 lbs. of force
Reaching above shoulder: Occasionally
Reaching below shoulder: Frequently
Lifting/Carrying:
0-10 lbs.: Occasionally - weights carried up to 100 ft. at a time
11-25 lbs.: Occasionally - weights carried up to 100 ft. at a time
Hand Activities:
Repetitive hand use - Frequently
Simple grasping - Frequently
Power grasping - Occasionally
Fine manipulation - Rarely
Hand and arm twisting/turning - Frequently
Computer operation/writing - Rarely
Supervised by: Director of Maintenance and Operations
Evaluated by: Director of Maintenance and Operations
The Mountain View Whisman School District prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying in educational programs, activities, or employment on the basis of actual or perceived ancestry, age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, parental, pregnancy, family or marital status, military status or association with a person or a group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. The Mountain View Whisman School District requires that school personnel take immediate steps to intervene when safe to do so when he or she witnesses an act of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying.
Questions or complaints of alleged discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying, equity or Title IX equity and compliance concerns should be directed to Erin Green at 650-526-3500, 1400 Montecito Ave., Mountain View, CA 94043, or egreen@mvwsd.org.

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