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First Student Van Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

First Student, Inc.

School Van Driver

Victorville, CA · On-site

$22.38/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 ...

First Student, Inc.

White School Van Driver

Barstow, CA · On-site

$22.50/hr

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

New

First Student

School Bus Driver

San Rafael, CA

$32.96 - $40.17/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

San Jose, CA

$33.94 - $38/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$32.96 - $40.17/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

San Jose, CA · On-site

$33.94 - $38/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Hesperia, CA · On-site

$26.06 - $34/hr

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$27.99 - $35.15/hr

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Porterville, CA

$24 - $30/hr

... and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Santa Maria, CA

$27.99 - $35.15/hr

... and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Tulare, CA

$22.28 - $28.11/hr

... and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Porterville, CA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Tulare, CA · On-site

$22.28 - $28.11/hr

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Hesperia, CA

$26.06 - $34/hr

... and professional First Student school bus driver. School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Tulare, CA · On-site

$22.28 - $28.11/hr

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

Experienced School Bus Driver

Newman, CA

$24 - $30.50/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

First Student

Experienced School Bus Driver

Newman, CA · On-site

$24 - $30.50/hr

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support ... In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van ...

Point Quest Group

School Van Driver

Lodi, CA

$18 - $20.50/hr

School Van Driver Pay Range: $18-$20.50/hour School Van Driver $18-$20.50/hour | Full-Time | ... Everything we do starts with one unwavering commitment: students first. Guided by a growth mindset ...

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All JobsFirst Student Van Driver JobsFirst Student Van Driver Jobs in California

First Student Van Driver information

See California salary details

$8

$14

$20

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for first student van driver in California is $14.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a First Student van driver?

First Student Van Drivers are professional drivers employed by First Student, a leading provider of school transportation services. Their main responsibility is to safely transport students to and from school, field trips, or special events using smaller passenger vans rather than traditional school buses. They must follow all traffic laws, ensure the safety and well-being of their passengers, and maintain proper records of their routes and schedules. Van drivers may also assist students with special needs and perform regular vehicle inspections to ensure a safe ride. This role requires a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and often, background checks and specific training provided by First Student.

What does a First Student van driver do?

A typical day for a First Student Van Driver involves inspecting the van for safety, planning routes, and ensuring the timely pickup and drop-off of students. Drivers regularly communicate with school staff to coordinate schedules, address student needs, and resolve any route changes. They may also interact with parents to provide updates or discuss special requirements for students. The role requires attentiveness, patience, and strong interpersonal skills to create a safe, supportive environment for all passengers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to be a First Student van driver?

To thrive as a First Student Van Driver, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and knowledge of safe driving practices, often accompanied by specialized training or certifications such as a CDL or passenger transport endorsement. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, vehicle inspection protocols, and company safety procedures is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and reliability are crucial soft skills for building trust with students and ensuring a positive environment. These competencies are essential for safeguarding passengers, maintaining schedules, and upholding the company's safety standards.

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

AspectFirst Student Van DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger and school bus endorsements
Work EnvironmentSmaller vans, often for special needs or local routesLarge school buses, transporting students over longer routes
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily private school transportation or contracted servicesPublic school districts and government-funded schools
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a First Student Van Driver and a School Bus Driver lies in the vehicle size, route type, and endorsements required. Van drivers typically operate smaller vehicles for local or specialized routes, while bus drivers handle larger buses for longer student routes. Both roles require CDL licenses with passenger endorsements, but school bus drivers often need additional endorsements specific to school transportation. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in student transportation services.

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

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

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

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

First Student Van Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Student Van Driver 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 $31,054 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

School Van Driver

First Student, Inc.

Victorville, CA • On-site

$22.38/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

First Student rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 318 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 78 rated education support services

Job description

Now Hiring Part-Time School Van Drivers for Victorville, CA
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: $22.38 per hour

  • Training Hourly Rate: $16.90 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.

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.
#Startup
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.

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