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Head Bus Driver Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

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Head Bus Driver information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do head bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for head bus driver in Rochester, NY is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Head Bus Driver vs Bus Driver?

AspectHead Bus DriverBus Driver
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), possibly additional certifications for passenger safetyCDL required, standard for operating buses
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role overseeing bus operations, safety, and staffDriving buses, transporting passengers
Employer & IndustryTransportation companies, school districts, transit agenciesPublic transit, private transportation, schools

The Head Bus Driver typically holds a CDL and additional certifications, overseeing bus operations and staff, while a Bus Driver primarily focuses on driving and passenger safety. The Head Bus Driver has supervisory responsibilities, whereas the Bus Driver concentrates on transportation services.

What is the highest paying bus driver job?

The highest paying bus driver jobs are typically with private charter companies, transportation for specialized services such as airport shuttles or luxury tours, or in roles requiring additional certifications like commercial driver’s licenses with passenger and hazardous materials endorsements. These positions often offer higher salaries due to specialized skills, longer hours, or demanding schedules.

What are some common challenges faced by a Head Bus Driver, and how can they be managed effectively?

As a Head Bus Driver, you may encounter challenges such as coordinating schedules among multiple drivers, handling unexpected route changes or delays, and addressing passenger concerns. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial for managing these situations. Building good relationships with your team and maintaining open lines of communication with dispatch and management will help ensure that daily operations run smoothly and any issues are quickly resolved.

What is the highest salary for a bus driver?

The highest salaries for head bus drivers can reach around $60,000 to $70,000 annually, often in regions with high demand or for those with extensive experience, specialized certifications, or supervisory responsibilities. Factors such as employer, location, and years of service influence earning potential in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), extensive driving experience, and thorough knowledge of transportation regulations and safety procedures. Familiarity with route planning software, vehicle maintenance systems, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in managing other drivers, coordinating schedules, and addressing passenger concerns. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operations and foster a positive team environment essential for public transportation services.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers in Connecticut typically earn an average hourly wage of around $16 to $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the school district, and drivers often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

Disqualifications for a bus driver typically include a poor driving record, a criminal background involving offenses like DUI or violence, and failing to meet health or vision requirements. Additionally, candidates must usually hold a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements and pass background checks and drug screenings.

What are Head Bus Drivers?

Head Bus Drivers are experienced professionals who oversee the operation of bus drivers within a transportation department or company. They are responsible for scheduling, training, and supervising other bus drivers, ensuring that safety protocols are followed and that routes run smoothly. In addition to driving buses themselves, Head Bus Drivers often handle administrative duties, resolve issues that arise on the road, and serve as a liaison between drivers and management. This role requires strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Bus Driver jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Head Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Head Bus Driver job openings:
Head Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Bus Driver job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Bus Driver 2025-2026

Bus Driver 2025-2026

Fairport Central School District

Fairport, NY • On-site

$22.60 - $25.59/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Transportation - Bus Driver/Bus Attendant/Bus Driver
Date Posted:
11/14/2024
Location:
Transportation Center
Date Available:
Continuous Hire
Closing Date:
Until FilledSCHOOL BUS DRIVER
NOTE : From this posting, we will hire both permanent and substitute bus drivers.
Qualifications:
Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying.
Typical qualifications would be equivalent to:
Certification/License
Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License.
Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), class B with Passenger and School Bus endorsement. (NOTE: Training is available for qualified applicants to prepare for this test.)
Education
High School Diploma or GED.
Experience
Successful prior experience working with children, preferably in a school district or transporting children.
Job Description:
Under the general supervision of the Director of Transportation and/or Head Bus Driver, to ensure the safe transportation of students, staff, and others to and from school, residential neighborhoods, and field trips.
Job Summary:
  • Safely drives a school bus on days when school is in session over designated routes in accordance with time schedules, loading and unloading students at designated locations.
  • Transports students, teachers and others on school field or activity trips.
  • Inspects assigned bus on a daily basis prior to transporting of passengers to ensure that bus is in good, clean and safe working order.
  • Cleans and refuels bus as needed.
  • Ensures that a communication device is in proper working order before each trip.
  • Reports all mechanical deficiencies, traffic violations, or accidents, promptly.
  • Arranges for and ensures completion of routine maintenance of bus (e.g., oil change); transporting the bus to and from maintenance and/or repair facilities.
  • Maintains order and discipline in an effective and courteous manner among students being transported in accordance with district policies and procedures; reports any incidents involving student discipline.
  • Observes and tracks route timing, such as total time en-route, time between stops, loading and unloading times or any other requested information for the purpose of establishing route efficiency, as requested.
  • Maintains and submits records and reports as required.
  • Follows procedures to ensure that no child is left alone on bus without adult supervision at any time, and that all children have departed bus at the end of all bus routes (morning, evening and during field trips or other special trips).
  • Inventories bus emergency and first aid supplies and equipment; reports needs to the Director.
  • Prepares aides and children for bus drills and ensures bus evacuation drills are held as required.
  • In case of accidents/emergencies, evacuates children according to written and practiced procedures, ensures that medical emergency procedures are followed; completes a written report as required.
  • Attends and participates in trainings, and other continuing education, career and professional development opportunities.
  • Performs other related tasks as assigned.

Equipment:
Uses standard automotive and bus equipment, and telephone.
Travel Requirements:
Travels to and from school district buildings, to vehicle service stations, field trip locations and other destinations are required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of all traffic laws, regulations, road signs and related information.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate the bus, conduct pre-trip inspections, and clean the bus.
  • Visual and auditory acuity within professionally determined normal ranges, with correction if needed.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Effective organizational, problem solving, and time management skills.
  • Ability to learn and comprehend information from procedures manuals and other materials. Ability to comprehend and follow traffic signs required.
  • Ability to physically move through the bus, center and classrooms.
  • Ability to maintain composure and perform responsibilities under pressure and in cases of accidents or other emergencies.
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards:
Works in standard school bus environment.
Salary: $22.60/hr. - $25.59/hr. (based on prior school district bus driver experience)
Paid Training: Per Contract
Application Procedure:
Apply online.
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
The Fairport Central School District is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. The District is committed to achieving a more diverse workforce. Candidates of diverse backgrounds and experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

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