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First Transit Bus Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$29 - $31.25/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 ...

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

Lockport, IL · On-site

$25.25/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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$26 - $32/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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

Batavia, IL · On-site

$25 - $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

Villa Park, IL · On-site

$25 - $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 ...

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

Skokie, IL · On-site

$27.50/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

Hodgkins, IL · On-site

$26.75 - $31.25/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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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First Transit Bus Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$8

$20

$29

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

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for first transit bus driver in Chicago, IL is $20.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $23.03 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, and why are they important?

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 are First Transit Bus Drivers?

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 Chicago, IL? For First Transit Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Transit Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for First Transit Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL are:
School Bus Driver

School Bus Driver

First Student

Orland Park, IL

$25.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


First Student rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 313 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 75 rated education support services


Job description

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers

Sign-On Bonus: $2000.00*

As a Part Time School Bus 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 trips and special event transportation may be available.

No experience is necessary to become a school bus driver! 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 experience and qualifications.
  • Hourly Rate: $25.50 per hour.
  • Training Hourly Rate: $18.50 per hour.
  • Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training provided!
  • Commercial Learner's Permit Bonus- $750 CLP Bonus if obtained within 7 days; $250 CLP Bonus if obtained within 14 days

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance or coverage options.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Part-time, flexible schedule: Split shifts (AM/PM routes), weekdays only; No nights, weekends, holidays, or summers required.
  • 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

Your day as a School Bus 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 bus to prevent distractions.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes, lights, tires, emergency exits).
  • Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the bus 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 Bus 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 Bus 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:

  • Valid Class B License.
  • History driving with ride share companies or taxi services.
  • Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate.

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.

*Sign-on bonus conditions apply. See location for details. Bonus offer is effective 12.30.2026

***Commercial Learner's Permit Bonus conditions apply. See location for details. Bonus offer is effective 10.31.2026


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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