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How much do lead bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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.

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.

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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

Lead Bus Driver - 10 Month

New Kent County Schools

New Kent, VA

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description: Performs intermediate administrative support work and scheduling for drivers activity, sports and all trips providing a variety of administrative assistant duties and clerical support in an office environment, and related work as apparent or assigned. Assist the Director / Supervisor with the coordination of the daily operation. Work is performed under the moderate supervision of the Director of Transportation. This job requires a CDL and the employee must maintain a good driving record at all times. 
Terms of Employment: Full-Time; 200 Days/10 Month/8 hours a day
Salary Scale: Per Approved Board Scale


FSLA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports To: Director of Transportation & Transportation Supervisor
Qualifications: The individual  has a  minimum of three years of experience in school bus operation with a valid CDL is required; has the ability to plan, organize, create routes, and is able to work in a fast paced stressful environment; and  must hold a valid operator's license with proper endorsements to operate a school bus in the state of Virginia. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. 
Job Duties/Essential Functions 




  • Performs the duties of a driver in all makes and models with or without climate control.
  • Dispatches daily to drivers any information needed regarding their students or route
  • Answers  phones and dispatches drivers
  • Processes incoming and outgoing mail
  • Assists with reviewing & planning routes using the routing system
  • Receives calls from drivers and assistants; Secures substitutes
  • Prioritizes and assists with  driver concerns before they are brought to the Supervisor
  • Notifies schools of late buses during the morning routes
  • Notify parents of daily bus changes or late buses
  • Assists with transportation reporting on an as needed basis
  • Provides clerical support to the Direction of Transportation & Supervisor
  • Reviewing GPS data and ensuring the driver information is accurate in the system
  • Determines daily employee & vehicle needs. Operates the base station for the two-way radio communication on vehicles assigned to the department of pupil transportation.
  • Types letters, memos, reports, bulletins, requisitions, invoices, schedules, manuals, records, etc.
  • Assists with field and athletic trip driver assignments
  • Communicates with schools and outside agencies on transportation related issues.
  • Communicates effectively and professionally with the public, school staff, parents and personnel from other departments.
  • Coordinates all activities related to computer routing and student bus assignments.
  • Will fill in as a substitute bus driver on an as needed basis.
  • Performs other related tasks as required
  • Will serve as the Activities Coordinator for after school for a period of two semesters within the current school year.

New Kent County Public Schools will conduct a background investigation (fingerprinting) of the individual recommended to fill this vacancy.
The New Kent County School Board is an equal opportunity employer, committed to non-discrimination in recruitment, selection, hiring, pay, promotion, retention or other personnel action affecting employees or candidates for employment. Therefore, discrimination in employment against any person on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, political affiliation, sex, gender, gender identity, age, marital status, genetic information or disability is prohibited. Personnel decisions are based on merit and the ability to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation. 



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