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Lead Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CENTRO DE LA FAMILIA

Substitute Bus Driver

Yerington, NV · On-site

$17.31 - $23.80/hr

Join us as a Bus Driver, operating under the supervision of our Lead Bus Driver. This role is dedicated to maintaining a clean and safe vehicle while transporting children and parents/families to ...

CENTRO DE LA FAMILIA DE UTAH

Bus Driver

Brighton, CO · On-site

$17.31 - $23.80/hr

Join us as a Bus Driver, operating under the supervision of our Lead Bus Driver. This role is dedicated to maintaining a clean and safe vehicle while transporting children and parents/families to ...

CENTRO DE LA FAMILIA

Bus Driver

Brighton, CO · On-site

$17.31 - $23.80/hr

Join us as a Bus Driver, operating under the supervision of our Lead Bus Driver. This role is dedicated to maintaining a clean and safe vehicle while transporting children and parents/families to ...

Centro

Bus Driver

Brighton, CO · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Join us as a Bus Driver, operating under the supervision of our Lead Bus Driver. This role is dedicated to maintaining a clean and safe vehicle while transporting children and parents/families to ...

Centro de la Familia de Utah

Bus Driver

Brighton, CO · On-site

$17.31 - $23.80/hr

Join us as a Bus Driver, operating under the supervision of our Lead Bus Driver. This role is dedicated to maintaining a clean and safe vehicle while transporting children and parents/families to ...

Grow Early Learning Corp

Bus Driver

Geneva, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Follow established bus routes without deviations except when directed to do so by an Emergency Response Team, Lead Bus Driver, Transportation Specialist in coordination with Transportation Manager ...

Grow Early Learning Corp

Bus Driver

Union City, IN · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Follow established bus routes without deviations except when directed to do so by an Emergency Response Team, Lead Bus Driver, Transportation Specialist in coordination with Transportation Manager ...

East Coast Migrant Head Start Project

Bus Driver

Faison, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Follow established bus routes without deviations except when directed to do so by an Emergency Response Team, Lead Bus Driver, Transportation Specialist in coordination with Transportation Manager ...

Grow Early Learning Corp

Bus Driver

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Follow established bus routes without deviations except when directed to do so by an Emergency Response Team, Lead Bus Driver, Transportation Specialist in coordination with Transportation Manager ...

Grow Early Learning Corp

Bus Driver

Lodge, SC · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Follow established bus routes without deviations except when directed to do so by an Emergency Response Team, Lead Bus Driver, Transportation Specialist in coordination with Transportation Manager ...

East Coast Migrant Head Start Project

Bus Driver

Steele, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Follow established bus routes without deviations except when directed to do so by an Emergency Response Team, Lead Bus Driver, Transportation Specialist in coordination with Transportation Manager ...

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How much do lead bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead bus driver in the United States is $21.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What bus company pays the most?

The highest-paying bus companies for lead bus drivers tend to be large transit agencies and private transportation firms, often offering salaries ranging from $50,000 to over $70,000 annually depending on location, experience, and certifications. Factors such as seniority, route complexity, and union membership can also influence pay rates.

How does a Lead Bus Driver typically balance driving duties with supervisory responsibilities?

A Lead Bus Driver often divides their time between operating assigned routes and overseeing other drivers, ensuring schedules and safety protocols are maintained. They may step in to drive when coverage is needed but also handle tasks like training new drivers, conducting safety meetings, and addressing passenger or staff concerns. This dual role requires strong organizational and communication skills, as Lead Bus Drivers must collaborate closely with dispatchers, mechanics, and management while providing support and guidance to their team.

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

To thrive as a Lead Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and experience in safely operating large passenger vehicles. Familiarity with route scheduling software, vehicle inspection protocols, and safety compliance systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help coordinate other drivers and manage passenger needs effectively. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure passenger safety, efficient operations, and smooth team coordination on daily routes.

What are Lead Bus Drivers?

Lead Bus Drivers are experienced bus operators who take on additional responsibilities beyond driving. They often supervise other bus drivers, help coordinate routes and schedules, and ensure that all safety and operational procedures are followed. Lead Bus Drivers may also provide training for new drivers, handle passenger concerns, and serve as a point of contact between drivers and management. Their role is essential for maintaining efficient and safe transportation services.

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

AspectLead Bus DriverBus Driver
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Passenger and School Bus endorsementsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Passenger and School Bus endorsements
Work EnvironmentLeading a team, overseeing safety, and coordinating routesDriving buses, following schedules, and ensuring passenger safety
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, transportation companies, tour operatorsSchool districts, transit agencies, private transportation services

The main difference between a Lead Bus Driver and a Bus Driver is that the Lead Bus Driver typically supervises other drivers, manages safety protocols, and coordinates routes, while the Bus Driver primarily focuses on operating the vehicle and transporting passengers. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the Lead Bus Driver has additional responsibilities related to leadership and oversight.

More about Lead Bus Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Bus Driver jobs? Cities with the most Lead Bus Driver job openings:
What states have the most Lead Bus Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Bus Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lead Bus Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Bus Driver jobs are:
Lead Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Bus Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 9% Full Time, 83% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,410 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Substitute Bus Driver

Substitute Bus Driver

CENTRO DE LA FAMILIA

Yerington, NV • On-site

$17.31 - $23.80/hr

Other

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description

Job Opportunity: Bus Driver - Ensuring Child Safety

Are you passionate about ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of children and their families?

Join us as a Bus Driver, operating under the supervision of our Lead Bus Driver. This role is dedicated to maintaining a clean and safe vehicle while transporting children and parents/families to program activities, homes, and field trips.

Key Responsibilities:


Annual Review and Training:

  • Participate in an annual review, including onboard observation of your road performance by a State Certified School Bus Instructor.
  • Attend a combination of annual classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training to ensure:
  • Safe and efficient vehicle operation.
  • Proficiency in running a fixed route, including loading, and unloading children, stopping at railroad crossings, and performing other specialized driving maneuvers.
  • Basic first aid administration in case of injury.
  • Emergency procedures, including vehicle evacuation.
  • Operation of special equipment like wheelchair lifts and restraints.

Driving the Route:

  • Assist the Bus Aide in ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
  • Follow the safest and most efficient assigned route, as determined by the Lead Bus Driver, the Transportation & Facilities Manager, and the Area Manager.
  • Maintain the route schedule and inform parents of stop locations and times.
  • Ensure children are properly restrained before starting the bus engine in the afternoon.
  • Ensure that children are released only to authorized individuals.
  • Safely load and unload children as per Centro's Transportation Manual.

Vehicle Maintenance:

  • Monitor and maintain all vehicle fluid levels.
  • Keep the vehicle interiors clean.
  • Clean the vehicle exterior as weather allows.

Other Duties:

  • Provide support for center-level Parent Night's by offering transportation or other assistance as assigned.
  • Perform a daily playground health and safety checklist when assigned by the Lead Bus Driver.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.

Current in-state Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a School Bus and Passenger endorsement or other state-specific criteria.

CPR and First Aid Certification.

Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is preferred.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

Driving in various weather conditions.

Able to lift to 55 pounds.

Moderate to loud noise level in the work environment.


Why You'll Love It Here:

We are passionate about our work and the incredible children and families we have the privilege to support. We have been dedicated to Community and Family Engagement since 1975, have been operating Head Start Programs since 1991, and have experience managing programs in challenging, isolated, and underserved areas. Our curricula and programs are rooted in science, and we are committed to the professional growth of minority communities. Plus, our team includes bilingual and bicultural staff to ensure inclusive and culturally sensitive care.


Come Join Our Team:

If you're dedicated to the safety and well-being of children and families and are committed to meeting their transportation needs, we encourage you to consider a meaningful career as a Bus Driver. Your contribution is pivotal in ensuring a secure and efficient journey for our cherished passengers.


Apply today!

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