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First Student Transportation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Diesel Mechanic

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$32 - $35/hr

While First Student is North America's leading school transportation provider-serving more than 1,250 districts and 5.4 million student journeys daily-our focus here in Ventura County is local. You ...

Diesel Mechanic

Concord, CA · On-site

$40.41 - $43.08/hr

While First Student is North America's leading school transportation provider-serving more than 1,250 districts and 5.4 million student journeys daily-our focus here in Concord is local. You'll join ...

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 ...

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Diesel Mechanic

Tulare, CA · On-site

$35 - $37/hr

While First Student is North America's leading school transportation provider-serving more than 1,250 districts and 5.4 million student journeys daily-our focus here in Tulare is local. You'll join a ...

Technician

Riverside, CA · On-site

$41.60/hr

While First Student is North America's leading school transportation provider-serving more than 1,250 districts and 5.4 million student journeys daily-our focus here in Riverside is local. You'll ...

School Bus Monitor

Porterville, CA · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

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 ...

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Dispatcher

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$26.13 - $35.10/hr

First Students commitment to putting our customers first, dedication to safety, and an ambition to deliver dependable transportation makes for a working environment youll love. As a huge company with ...

Location Safety Manager

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$82K - $87K/yr

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 ...

New

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 ...

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First Student Transportation information

See California salary details

$9

$19

$37

How much do first student transportation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student transportation in California is $19.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is First Student Transportation?

First Student Transportation is a company specializing in providing school bus transportation services across North America. They work with school districts to safely transport students to and from school, field trips, and other educational events. First Student is known for its focus on safety, driver training, and reliable service. The company operates one of the largest fleets of school buses and employs thousands of professional drivers. Their services are designed to ensure that students arrive at their destinations safely and on time.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a school bus driver at First Student Transportation?

To thrive as a School Bus Driver at First Student Transportation, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), clean driving record, and knowledge of safe vehicle operation. Familiarity with GPS navigation, vehicle inspection checklists, and basic reporting systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and reliability help drivers manage children’s behavior and interact positively with parents and school staff. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensure student safety, maintain punctual routes, and foster trust within the community.

What challenges do drivers face at First Student Transportation, and how does the company support them?

Drivers at First Student Transportation often face challenges such as managing tight schedules, ensuring student safety during transit, and adapting to varying weather or traffic conditions. The company provides comprehensive training, ongoing safety education, and access to support staff to help drivers handle these situations effectively. Additionally, First Student promotes a collaborative environment where drivers can share experiences and solutions, and it offers mentorship programs to help new hires succeed in their roles.

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

AspectFirst Student TransportationBus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), background check, drug testCDL, background check, drug test
Work EnvironmentSchool buses, transportation hubs, routes with studentsDriving school buses, transporting students on scheduled routes
Employer & IndustryFirst Student, school transportation servicesSchool districts, private transportation companies

Both roles require a CDL, background checks, and involve driving school buses in a school environment. First Student Transportation is a major employer providing bus services, while a bus driver is a job title held by individuals working for various companies or districts. The main difference lies in the employment context, with First Student being a specific employer and bus driver being the job role.

What are popular job titles related to First Student Transportation jobs in California?

For First Student Transportation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Student Transportation jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for First Student Transportation jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various First Student Transportation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,342 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Other

Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Position Summary
Under general supervision, the School Bus Aide/Student Transportation Driver is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation of students, including those with special needs, to and from school and related activities.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This is an entry-level classified position within the Transportation Department. The School Bus Aide/Student Transportation Driver is distinguished by its focus on direct student supervision and support during transportation, including assisting students with special needs, maintaining order and safety on the bus, and providing first aid or emergency assistance as required. The position supports the safe transport of students on assigned routes and schedules, following all traffic laws and County Office policies.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities (Examples of Essential Job Functions)
  • Assist students with boarding, seating, and exiting the bus, including operation of lifts and securing of wheelchairs or safety devices.
  • Supervise and monitor student behavior, maintain discipline and a safe environment; intervene and report incidents as needed.
  • Assist with clean-up of bodily fluids and help maintain a clean environment in the assigned bus or vehicle.
  • Communicate effectively with students, parents, school staff, and the bus driver regarding schedules, student needs, and safety concerns.
  • Provide emergency first aid and CPR as required; participate in emergency evacuation drills and respond to incidents according to district procedures.
  • Administer prescribed medication per individualized health plan and perform specialized health care procedures.
  • Maintain accurate records and reports, including daily logs, incident reports, and pre-trip/post-trip vehicle inspections.
  • Perform data-entry related to health records and observations.
  • Perform billing and other clerical tasks as needed.
  • Attend required training sessions, including student management, emergency preparedness, and special needs support.
  • Comply with all district, state, and federal policies, procedures, and regulations, including background checks, drug and alcohol testing, and medical examinations.
  • Supports the Bus Driver and assist the transportation department in the maintenance of fleet vehicles as needed.
  • Will be required to transport students on a regular basis.
Employment Standards
-Knowledge of:
  • Safe driving practices, traffic laws, and regulations related to student transportation.
  • Basic first aid and CPR procedures.
  • Student management techniques and the special needs of students.
  • Procedures for securing car seats, child restraint systems, and wheelchairs.
  • District policies and procedures regarding student transportation.
-Ability to:
  • Exercise good judgment, patience, and tact in dealing with students and challenging situations.
  • Communicate effectively and positively with students, parents, staff, and the public.
  • Read and interpret safety rules, instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Work independently and as part of a team.
  • Assist students with physical needs, operate safety equipment.
  • Maintain order and discipline on the bus.
  • Respond appropriately to emergencies and provide first aid or CPR as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:
-Education:
High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
-Experience:
One year of related experience or experience working with special education students or students with challenging behavior
-Licenses required:
  • Valid California driver's license for the appropriate class of vehicle.
  • First Aid and CPR certification (training provided if needed)
  • CPI Certification (training provided)
Preferred:
Experience in an educational setting and/or specialized training in student management or special needs support.
Other Requirements
  • The employee in this position must be willing to be trained on and administer medication, including insulin and/or epinephrine, pursuant to the direction of the School Nurse and consistent with the directives of the student's medical provider." -
  • Must be fingerprinted and a satisfactory Department of Justice records check must be received by HCOE prior to employment.
  • TB testing and/or risk assessment will be required upon employment.
  • Must comply with all applicable laws and district policies, including those related to student privacy, non-discrimination, and cannabis use limitations.
  • Subject to and must comply with drug and alcohol testing consistent with Section 34520.3 of the Vehicle Code.
  • Must pass a criminal background check and participate in the DMV pull-notice system.
  • Complete required training, including American Red Cross first aid or equivalent.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.
Range: 6
CSEA Approved: 5/7/26