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First Student Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

School Van Driver

Champlin, MN · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school van driver. School Van Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Van Driver

Winona, MN · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school van driver. School Van Driver benefits: · Pay Details: Dependent on ...

Van Driver

Batavia, IL · On-site

$20.50 - $24.50/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... Your day as a School Van Driver will include: · Safely transport students to and from school and ...

School Van Driver benefits: * Pay Details : Dependent on experience and qualifications * Hourly ... Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ...

School Van Driver

Anoka, MN · On-site

$26 - $27.60/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school van driver. School Van Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

Van Driver

Batavia, IL · On-site

$20.50 - $24.50/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... Your day as a School Van Driver will include: · Safely transport students to and from school and ...

School Bus Driver

Rochester, WA · On-site

$24.50 - $29.17/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Nine Mile Falls, WA · On-site

$23 - $29.20/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Dillard, OR · On-site

$22.66/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... From our school bus drivers and location managers to routers, dispatchers and fleet technician ...

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Van Driver

Anoka, MN · On-site

$26 - $27.60/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school van driver. School Van Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Chattaroy, WA · On-site

$26.50 - $30/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Pendleton, OR · On-site

$26.10 - $30.88/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

White City, OR · On-site

$24.28 - $25.73/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

Van Driver

Batavia, IL · On-site

$20.50 - $24.50/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... Your day as a School Van Driver will include: · Safely transport students to and from school and ...

School Bus Driver

Ogden, UT · On-site

$24.05 - $27/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

North Bend, OR · On-site

$25.75 - $33.25/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Roseburg, OR · On-site

$22.66/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... From our school bus drivers and location managers to routers, dispatchers and fleet technician ...

School Bus Driver

Newport, WA · On-site

$21 - $25.50/hr

We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on ...

School Bus Driver

Richmond, CA · On-site

$30.48 - $40/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... From our school bus drivers and location managers to routers, dispatchers and fleet technician ...

Showing results 21-40

First Student Driver information

See salary details

$15

$21

$39

How much do first student driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student driver in the United States is $21.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a First Student Driver?

A First Student Driver is a professional bus driver employed by First Student, a major provider of school transportation services in North America. These drivers are responsible for safely transporting students to and from school, field trips, and other activities. They must maintain a high standard of safety, follow specific routes and schedules, and ensure the well-being of all passengers on board. First Student provides comprehensive training and support to help drivers meet licensing and safety requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Student Driver?

To thrive as a First Student Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements, a clean driving record, and knowledge of safe driving practices. Familiarity with vehicle inspection protocols, basic maintenance, and the use of GPS or routing systems is typically required. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to manage student behavior are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure student safety, maintain schedule reliability, and foster a positive environment during transportation.

What are some common challenges faced by new First Student Drivers, and how can they be overcome?

New First Student Drivers often face challenges such as managing large vehicles in busy traffic and maintaining student discipline during routes. To overcome these, drivers receive thorough training in vehicle operation, route navigation, and student management techniques. Support from experienced drivers, supervisors, and ongoing safety meetings also help new drivers build confidence and handle issues effectively. Staying proactive about communication with dispatch and practicing regular self-assessment can further ease the transition into the role.

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

AspectFirst Student DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, background check
Work EnvironmentSchool campuses, bus routes, transportation hubsSchool zones, residential areas, bus stops
Employer & Industry UsageFirst Student, school transportation servicesSchool districts, private transportation companies

Both First Student Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsement and work in school transportation environments. The main difference lies in branding and employer, with First Student Drivers working specifically for First Student, a major school transportation provider, while School Bus Drivers may work for various school districts or private companies. Both roles focus on safely transporting students to and from school.

What cities are hiring for First Student Driver jobs?

Cities with the most First Student Driver job openings:

What states have the most First Student Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Student Driver jobs include:

Infographic showing various First Student Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,113 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

School Van Driver

First Student

Champlin, MN • On-site

$26 - $31/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


First Student rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

First Student

Based on 319 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.2

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.2 out of 10

Education support services average

Based on 2,879 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at First Student

  • 89%

    89% of students say it’s good

    of students say it’s good

  • 88%

    88% say they enjoy their job

    say they enjoy their job

  • 87%

    87% of parents and care-givers say it’s good

    of parents and care-givers say it’s good

Featured by First Student, based on 319 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Now Hiring Part-Time School Van Drivers for Anoka-Hennepin School and Fridley School Districts, Champlin, MN

As a Part Time School Van Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely back home in the afternoon. Additional hours for field trip and special event transportation may be available.

No experience is necessary to become a van driver! We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school van driver.

School Van Driver benefits:

  • Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications

  • Hourly Rate: $26.00 - $31.00 per hour

  • Training Hourly Rate: $25.00 per hour

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance or coverage options

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match.

  • Part-time, flexible schedule: Split shifts (AM/PM routes).

  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations across the U.S. & Canada!

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.

  • Community Impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families.

  • Employee Discount Program: Discounts on various products and services.

  • Guaranteed Minimum Hours: Get paid for (5) hours per day at a minimum.

  • Child Ride-Along Program: Perfect for working parents.

  • Safety or Attendance bonuses**

Your day as a School Van Driver will include:

  • Safely transport students to and from school and activities.

  • Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids.

  • Maintain order on the vehicle to prevent distractions.

  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes, lights, tires, emergency exits).

  • Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the vehicle clean and sanitary.

  • Obey all traffic laws and company safety standards.

  • Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.

  • Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

School Van Driver Jobs are Perfect For:

  • Retirees looking for supplemental income

  • Stay-at-home parents seeking daytime work

  • Veterans transitioning into civilian roles

  • Anyone seeking a second career or flexible job

  • People who enjoy working with children

You might be a good fit as a School Van Driver if you:

  • Are at least 21 years old

  • Have a valid driver's license for at least 3 years

  • Are looking for a part-time schedule and summers off

  • Enjoy working with students

Note: This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.

Great School Bus Drivers often bring skills such as:

  • History driving with ride share companies or taxi services

  • Previous experience as a teacher, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate.

"Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support you on and off the job, from early wage access and loyalty rewards to employee discounts, recognition programs, growth opportunities, and appreciation events. If you're ready to be part of a team that Fosters Teamwork and makes a real difference every day, First Student is the place to be."

Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First Student! Make an impact in your community while enjoying flexible schedules, great pay, and unmatched support.

*Conditions apply. See locations for details.

Language Requirement
This role requires English proficiency. Federal, state, and local requirements, including U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, require training, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications be conducted in English.


First for a reason:

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more than 5 million students and passengers to and from their destinations each day! Our family of brands include Transco, Total Transportation, Maggies Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation; they create and implement the most advanced training and technology the transportation industry has to offer.


In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are considered safety-sensitive and are therefore subject to drug and alcohol testing, including cannabis.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. First is also committed to providing a drug-free workplace. First will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, and any other fair chance law. Philadelphia's Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance Poster is at this link or upon request https://www.phila.gov/media/20210423160847/Fair-Chance-Hiring-law-poster.pdf.

Company Description

About us
An industry leader famous for our yellow school buses and service and safety excellence, we’ve provided student transportation services to schools for over 100 years. Continually investing in the services of the future, we’re proud to be part of FirstGroup America – the largest provider of safe, reliable and sustainable surface passenger transportation services in North America.

Industry leader
We safely operate more than one third of all contracted school buses in North America.
Together our 50,000 school buses travel nearly 600 million miles per year — the equivalent of 1,200 round trips to the moon.
We operate in around 550 locations throughout 38 U.S. states and 8 Canadian provinces.

Innovation
We were the first school bus company to utilize global positioning systems (GPS), so at any one time we know where all of our buses are and how fast they’re travelling.
Passionate about safety, we’ve installed Safety Crossing Gates on the front of all of our school buses and use the Child Check-MateTM electronic reminder system to make sure no sleeping children remain inside a bus at the end of each route.

Awards & recognition
We won the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award from the National Safety Council two years in a row.
Dedicated to safety, FirstGroup received the National Safety Council’s (NSC) Green Cross for Safety Medal - the highest award for safety in North America.

Teamwork and trust
It takes a diverse team of skilled professionals to provide a safe, effective and efficient student transportation system. From our school bus drivers and location managers to routers, dispatchers and fleet technician mechanics, the work we do every day makes a big impact on the daily lives of students, parents, local communities and school district partners.

We’re very proud of our elite team of over 55,000 dedicated, caring and diverse professionals. And they are the #1 reason we’re trusted by over 1,400 school districts - more than any other provider. Everybody here plays their part in creating a positive school bus experience.

Our culture
We live and breathe our vision and values. They are embedded in our culture and drive our commitment to our customers and communities. Our culture fosters growth and promotes respect, reliability, responsibility and safety. And we recruit people who share these values and will work together to build strong and trusting partnerships in the communities we serve.

Safety – Although our safety record is twice as safe as the industry average, we continually seek out opportunities to enhance our operational and safety initiatives.
Learning – Through our learning culture that spans over 550 locations, we receive and share insight from our people to enhance our service now and in the future.
Making a difference - By doing our job well, we make a positive impact on many lives – including the millions of students who travel with us every school day.
Careers for all – We’re an Equal Opportunity Employer and an Employer of Choice.
By consistently encouraging and supporting an open dialogue with our people and partners, we’re able to share new ideas and develop new ways to meet the needs of our customers and passengers. At First Student, you’ll feel empowered to serve your community. So join the team and start to make a difference.


Working at First Student

Perks for frontline workers

From First Student, via Breakroom

  • Competitive pay and paid training

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and paid time off

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage options

  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match

  • Career advancement opportunities, including operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), including counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues

  • Community impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families

About First Student, in their own words

From First Student

At First Student, we are a team of 66,800 employees dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and efficient student transportation. As the leading student transportation provider in North America, we operate over 530+ locations across the U.S. and Canada. Our family of brands includes Transco, Total Transportation, Maggie’s Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation, helping create and implement the advanced training, technology, and transportation solutions our industry has to offer. Our company’s history is rooted in industry innovation, operational excellence, and a shared commitment to putting students first.

Company values

From First Student

• Focus on safety: Safety is at the heart of everything we do

• Foster teamwork: Work together, act with integrity, respect each other, and champion diversity and inclusion

• Care for our students: Ensure our vehicles are welcoming and trusted places where students feel comfortable and secure

• Surpass customer expectations: Go the extra mile to deliver an extraordinary experience for our customers and communities

• Set the highest standards: Continually seek a better way to do things with innovation, sustainable practices, financial discipline, commercial excellence, and operational excellence


What First Student employees say

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Benefits

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