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First Transit Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Marin Airporter

Transit Bus Driver

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$32/hr

We train new drivers who need upgrading to Air Brakes and Verification of Transit Training (VTT ... All bus passengers and drivers are required to wear a mask. Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Pay:

City of Delano

Transit Bus Driver/ Operator

Delano, CA · On-site

$4.0K - $4.8K/mo

V. printout(Not older than 3 months) Class B Driver's License/Passenger Endorsement Valid DL-51A Medical Certificate Under direction, operates a transit system vehicle, van, or mini-bus in the ...

Transdev

Public Transit Bus Driver

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$40.50/hr

Bus Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in Santa Rosa, CA. As a key member, you will be entrusted with ensuring safe and comfortable ...

Transdev

Public Transit Bus Driver

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$40.50/hr

Bus Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in Santa Rosa, CA . As a key member, you will be entrusted with ensuring safe and comfortable ...

WeDriveU

Transit CDL Driver - Part time

Fresno, CA · On-site

$23.02/hr

... bus and rail passengers on four continents. Visit wedriveu.com to learn more about our company ... Note: All interested applicants for a Transit Driver position begin with us as a Driver Trainee.

Ventura Unified School District

Bus Driver

Ventura, CA · On-site

$27.65 - $33.49/hr

... transit school bus with air brakes. * Valid First Aid Certification issued by an authorized agency. * Valid DOT medical Examiners Certificate. THE DETAILS TESTING INFORMATION Step 1: Application ...

Placer County California

Bus Driver - Senior

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$30.72 - $38.38/hr

Tahoe Area Regional Transit (TART) is currently accepting applications for a permanent, full-time ... Possession of valid CPR and First Aid certificate is desirable. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES ...

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All JobsFirst Transit Bus Driver JobsFirst Transit Bus Driver Jobs in California

First Transit Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$8

$19

$28

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

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for first transit bus driver in California is $19.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges First Transit bus drivers face and how are they supported in overcoming them?

First Transit Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing schedules during peak traffic, ensuring passenger safety, and handling unexpected route changes or difficult weather conditions. To help drivers succeed, First Transit provides comprehensive training, regular safety briefings, and access to support from dispatch and maintenance teams. Drivers also benefit from established communication channels with supervisors to address issues as they arise, ensuring a safe and efficient work environment.

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

AspectFirst Transit Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit buses, urban/suburban routesSchool campuses, student transportation
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, public transportationSchool districts, educational institutions

Both roles require a CDL with passenger or school bus endorsement and involve transporting passengers. First Transit Bus Drivers typically operate on public transit routes, while School Bus Drivers focus on student transportation. The main differences lie in the work environment and specific endorsements needed, but both roles are essential for safe passenger or student transit services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Transit bus driver?

To thrive as a First Transit Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with route management systems, fare collection devices, and vehicle inspection protocols is typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and strong communication skills help drivers interact positively with passengers and handle stressful situations. These skills and qualities ensure safe, reliable transportation and a positive experience for riders and the community.

What is a First Transit bus driver?

First Transit Bus Drivers are professional drivers employed by First Transit, a leading provider of transportation services across North America. Their primary responsibilities include safely operating buses along designated routes, picking up and dropping off passengers, and ensuring that all riders have a safe and pleasant experience. Drivers also assist passengers with disabilities, adhere to traffic laws, and maintain accurate records of their routes and schedules. Customer service and a strong safety focus are key aspects of the role.
What are popular job titles related to First Transit Bus Driver jobs in California? For First Transit Bus Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Transit Bus Driver jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for First Transit Bus Driver jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for First Transit Bus Driver jobs? Cities in California with the most First Transit Bus Driver job openings:
First Transit Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Transit Bus Driver job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,658 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Transit Bus Driver

Humboldt Transit Authority (CA)

Eureka, CA • On-site

$46K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description Effective January 7, 2026, the Governing Board approved a 34-hour, four-day full-time workweek. This change promotes work-life balance while continuing to deliver high-quality public service. Implementation is expected on or about April 2026, as staffing allows.

Operates a 30 to 60 passenger bus in a manner that provides safe, reliable, and courteous passenger transportation, information, and assistance to various destinations within the transit district. Examples of Duties Essential Job Functions: Typical Tasks It is an essential job function of all HTA Transit Operators to operate various types of vehicles within the fleet, as well as secure mobility devices in various types of securement stations on a day-to-day basis, for the operation of the public transportation system but not limited to: Operates a motor coach safely and in accordance with a designated schedule; Picks up and drops off passengers at designated bus stops; Collects fares and sells day passes; Aids passengers in boarding or departing the motor coach as needed; Operates the wheelchair lift when necessary and secures passengers' wheelchairs; Calls out stops and provides information to passengers; Maintains order on the motor coach; Operates a two-way radio; Prepares accident and incident reports; Performs related work as required. Supplemental Information Knowledge of: Safe driving practices.

Ability to: Learn to operate a motor coach in a safe manner; Learn to operate a two-way radio; Read maps; Follow a schedule; Follow oral and written instructions which are given in English; Prepare accident, incident, and other reports in English; Maintain simple records; Deal courteously and effectively with the public; Perform simple arithmetic. Typical Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Are you at least 21 years old. High School Diploma or equivalent.

Do you have a valid California Class C Driver's License with a good driving record. No need to have a commercial license - we provide the training. Supplemental Information JOB CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS Safety sensitive position and requires pre-employment and random drug testing mandated by the Federal Transit Administration.

Varied shifts; must be willing to work at the scheduled time and location. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Meet Commercial licensing standards. Sit for extended periods of time.

Use arms, wrists, and hands to turn steering wheel of transit vehicle. Use legs to apply pressure for braking of transit vehicle. Adjust transit vehicle seats and mirrors to gain necessary line of vision to maneuver vehicle safely.

Maneuver heavy wheeled mobility devices. Climb, stand, walk, bend, stoop, crouch and kneel to inspect vehicle or assist passengers. Push, pull, or maneuver carts, strollers, wheeled mobility devices.

Lift approximately 50 pounds or less. Please note: HTA makes reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities to ensure the accessibility of HTA's employment recruitment, application, and selection process. Upon request, accommodations are provided to people who need assistance in obtaining position availability information, completion of employment applications, and interviewing processes.

Requests must be received prior to an applicants' scheduled interview date.

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