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Head Start Bus Driver Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Head Start Teacher is responsible for leading a Head Start classroom of 3-5 year old children ... Must have a valid driver's license and/or reliable transportation. When/Where/How Much: When: Fall ...

New

Bus Monitor- Mattawan

Mattawan, MI ยท On-site

$15.50 - $19.12/hr

Reports to the assigned bus prior to the route, rides the bus during the route, completes route ... HS/GED/Head Start Parent: $15.50 AA or Higher: $17.08 Includes CDL Credential HS/GED $15.93 AA: $17 ...

Bus Monitor- Mattawan

Mattawan, MI ยท On-site

$15.50 - $19.12/hr

Reports to the assigned bus prior to the route, rides the bus during the route, completes route ... HS/GED/Head Start Parent: $15.50 AA or Higher: $17.08 Includes CDL Credential HS/GED $15.93 AA: $17 ...

Reports to the assigned bus prior to the route, rides the bus during the route, completes route ... HS/GED/Head Start Parent: $15.50 AA or Higher: $17.08 Includes CDL Credential HS/GED $15.93 AA: $17 ...

School Bus Driver

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$25/hr

We are in need of School Bus Drivers for the upcoming 2026-2027 School Year. $25.00 Per Hour to Start! Daily 6 Hour Pay Guarantee! * Responsible for the safe and reliable transportation of students ...

School Bus Driver

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$25/hr

We are in need of School Bus Drivers for the upcoming 2026-2027 School Year. $25.00 Per Hour to Start! Daily 6 Hour Pay Guarantee! * Responsible for the safe and reliable transportation of students ...

School Bus Driver

Wyandotte, MI ยท On-site

$26/hr

We are in need of School Bus Drivers for the upcoming 2026-2027 School Year. $26.00 Per Hour to Start! $1,000 New Hire Sign on Bonus! Daily 6 Hour Pay Guarantee! * Responsible for the safe and ...

We are in need of School Bus Drivers for the upcoming 2026-2027 School Year. $26.00 Per Hour to Start! $1,000 New Hire Sign on Bonus! Daily 6 Hour Pay Guarantee! * Responsible for the safe and ...

Showing results 21-40

Head Start Bus Driver information

See Michigan salary details

$7

$17

$24

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for head start bus driver in Michigan is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Head Start bus driver?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Start bus driver?

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 popular job titles related to Head Start Bus Driver jobs in Michigan?

For Head Start Bus Driver jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Head Start Bus Driver jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Head Start Bus Driver jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Head Start Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Head Start Bus Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Start Bus Driver job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,908 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

EHS/HS Bus Driver - Part Time

Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

Suttons Bay, MI โ€ข On-site

$21.21/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Plan, organize, and manage transportation routes to meet the needs of the EHS/HS education programs.

  • Maintain the bus's safety and cleanliness, including developing a maintenance plan and conducting emergency evacuation drills.

  • Follow policies and procedures related to bus operation and transportation, and perform duties related to the educational efforts of the GTB Education Department.


Job description

SUMMARY
The bus driver is directly responsible to the EHS/HS for meeting the transportation goals and objectives of the EHS/HS education program. The Driver will plan, organize, and manage his/her time in a manner in which the transportation needs of the EHS/HS education programs are met. His/her demeanor will reflect positively the Early Head Start/Head Start goals and expectations as defined in the local program plan.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Must be able to work cooperatively with supervisors and co-workers in a positive team effort approach.
  • Must maintain professional confidentiality.
  • Report to work as scheduled by your supervisor.
  • Be in compliance with GTB and funding agency policies and procedures.
  • Plan and implement his/her route so that none of the children are riding the bus for longer than 1 hour.
  • Develop maintenance plan for the bus according to established guidelines for the proper and safe operation of the bus.
  • Keep bus cleaned inside and washed as often as necessary.
  • Take necessary classes/training to maintain his/her CPR/First Aide certification as valid and up to date.
  • Conduct and document the required number of emergency bus evacuation drills each program year.
  • Follow the policies and procedures involving the bus and transportation rules posted in the bus and the transportation policy in the parent handbook.
  • Other duties as assigned by your supervisor that relate to the educational efforts for the GTB Education Department.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Must be able to work cooperatively with supervisors and co-workers in a positive team approach.
  • Must enjoy working with young children
  • Must have basic math skills
  • Effective and positive communication skills involving adults and children
  • Knowledge and use of Native language would be a positive skill.
  • Ability to observe children in a non-biased manner.
  • Must report unusual behavior.
  • Must be able to work cooperatively with supervision and co-workers in a positive team approach.
  • Must enjoy working with young children.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
  • Must have a High School Diploma or GED.
  • Must have First Aide Certification or obtain (within 30 days) CPR for infants and children.
  • Must have previous school bus driving experience.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS
  • Must have a valid unrestricted Driver's license and be insurable by the GTB insurance carrier.
  • Must have appropriate endorsements for all vehicles required to operate in the performance of duties.
  • Up to date commercial driver's license (CDL) with "S" bus driver endorsement and "P" endorsement.
  • Meet Federal DOT drug/alcohol testing requirements.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED
School Bus and some minor maintenance tools to maintain bus in safe, operating condition.
TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS
May include lifting of 3-5 year old children and assisting them on and off the bus. Must be physically able to maintain and clean the inside of the bus.
TYPICAL MENTAL DEMANDS
Must be able to effectively handle stressful and compromising situations, while remaining focused and professional. Must be able to deal with difficult children without losing perspective. Must be able to work productively under strict time constraints with variable deadlines. Must be able to make quick, informed decisions.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Driving route two times per day for about two hours each run. Must be able to safely handle bus in rain, snow and winter road conditions.
COMMENTS
Native American preference will apply. Current and former Early Head Start and Head Start parents must receive preference for employment vacancies for which they are qualified. Must be willing and able to pass a background investigation and a drug and alcohol urinalysis as a condition of employment. Adherence to strict company policy in regard to confidentiality is a must.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Management retains the right to add or to change the duties of the position at any time. * Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents in lieu of stated minimums require prior approval of the Director of Human Resources.