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Head Start Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BUS DRIVER - Head Start

Monroe, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Position Type: Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 4/16/2025 Location: Transportation - Riverside Head Start Date Available: Immediately Closing Date: Until Filled District: Monroe County ...

... Head Start children. Must submit timely reports and be responsible for bus maintenance and regular ... Valid California Commercial Driver's License (Class A or B with Endorsements P & S). * DL-45 ...

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Head Start Bus Driver information

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$8

$19

$28

How much do head start bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for head start bus driver in the United States is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Head Start Bus Driver, you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, a clean driving record, and knowledge of child safety regulations. Familiarity with bus safety equipment, vehicle inspection protocols, and route scheduling software is typically required. Patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to interact positively with young children and their families are essential soft skills. These qualifications ensure the safe and reliable transportation of children, fostering a secure and supportive environment crucial for early childhood programs.

What are some common challenges Head Start Bus Drivers face and how can they be addressed?

Head Start Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing the safe transportation of young children, maintaining strict schedules, and communicating effectively with parents and program staff. Ensuring that each child is properly secured and accounted for requires patience and attention to detail. Additionally, drivers must adapt to varying weather, road conditions, and the unique needs of preschool passengers. Ongoing training, clear communication protocols, and support from the Head Start team help address these challenges and ensure a positive experience for both the children and the driver.

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

AspectHead Start Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsementsCDL with passenger and school bus endorsements
Work EnvironmentTransporting preschool children for Head Start programs, often in urban or suburban areasTransporting students of various ages to and from school, often in public school districts
Employer & IndustryHead Start programs, non-profit or government agenciesPublic school districts, private schools, or transportation companies

Both Head Start Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers require CDL licenses with passenger endorsements and work in transporting students. The main difference lies in the age group served and the employer. Head Start Bus Drivers focus on preschool children in early childhood programs, while School Bus Drivers typically transport older students to and from school. Both roles are essential for student safety and require similar certifications and driving skills.

What are Head Start Bus Drivers?

Head Start Bus Drivers are professionals responsible for safely transporting children enrolled in the Head Start program to and from their homes, schools, and other program activities. They ensure that all children are secured properly, follow strict safety protocols, and maintain discipline and order on the bus. Additionally, they may assist with loading and unloading children, perform regular vehicle inspections, and communicate with parents and staff regarding transportation needs. This role requires patience, attention to detail, and a commitment to child safety.
More about Head Start Bus Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Head Start Bus Driver jobs? Cities with the most Head Start Bus Driver job openings:
What states have the most Head Start Bus Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Head Start Bus Driver jobs include:
Infographic showing various Head Start Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,198 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

$18.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Head Start
Date Posted:
7/8/2025
Location:
Head StartPOSITION TITLE: Head Start Bus Driver
LOCATION: LINCOLN
POSTING DATE: July 8, 2025
CLOSING DATE: Position will be open until filled.
HOURS: 32.5 hours per week
DAYS: . 183 days per year, August to June
SALARY SCHEDULE: Rate of pay with a CDL $18.60/hr.; while a CDL trainee $11.97 per hour
START DATE: August 18, 2025
JOB SUMMARY: The principal function of an employee in this class is to safely transport preschool students to and from school, and related functions in a timely manner. A safe and appropriate environment is maintained through the student bus discipline program. The bus driver must safely operate the bus in all types of weather and traffic conditions. The work is performed under the general supervision of the Operation Manager Supervisor with latitude granted for the exercise of independent judgment. The principal duties of this class are performed in a school bus setting which includes mechanical equipment and outdoor work. Early morning and split shift work hours are required. Driving and working in inclement weather conditions may involve related hazards.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or GED equivalent is required; Class B CDL with passenger and school bus endorsement; DOT Medical card; CPR/First Aid certification; Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform as an effective and competent bus driver.
HEALTH QUALIFICATIONS: Current physical exam unless employee can provide documentation of exam completed within prior 12 months.
BENEFIT: Full benefits - health, dental, vision, life insurance, PERSI retirement, paid leave
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: To be considered for a position, the following application materials must be submitted by the posting closure date. (Only complete application packets will be reviewed.):
The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District is an equal opportunity employer/education with a drug , alcohol and tobacco free environment.Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability or national origin is prohibited. Equal access to employment, services and program is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization. Preference will be given to eligible veterans pursuant to Idaho Code§ 65-503 et.seq. Questions or complaints should be addressed to the Human Resource Office at 208-232-3563.
Attachment(s):
  • Head Start Bus Driver 2025.docx