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Long Distance Bus Driver Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Ability to take public transportation (plane, rental car, bus) back to the starting point if a one ... Ability to make short/local and long-distance trips on short notice. * Ability for overnight travel.

Part-Time Driver Veero Ford & Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Morris Morris, MN Job Type: Part-Time ... Comfortable with both local and long-distance driving assignments. * Ability to work flexible hours ...

Long Haul Dispatcher

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Long Haul Dispatcher will be accountable for dispatching long distance drivers throughout the United States while these drivers pack, load, haul and deliver corporate America's employees as well ...

Showing results 21-40

Long Distance Bus Driver information

See Minnesota salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do long distance bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for long distance bus driver in Minnesota is $19.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by long distance bus drivers, and how are they managed?

Long distance bus drivers often encounter challenges such as fatigue from extended hours on the road, maintaining passenger safety, and adapting to varying weather or traffic conditions. To manage these, companies typically enforce regulated rest breaks, provide training on safe driving practices, and support drivers with real-time route updates. Drivers also work closely with dispatch and customer service teams to address passenger needs and ensure a smooth journey.

What is a long distance bus driver?

Long distance bus drivers are professional drivers responsible for transporting passengers safely over extended routes that often span cities, states, or even countries. They operate large motorcoaches or buses, following specific schedules and making stops along the way. Their duties include ensuring passenger safety, adhering to traffic laws, assisting with luggage, and sometimes providing customer service during the journey. Long distance bus drivers may work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. They are required to hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) and often undergo additional training for passenger transport.

What is the difference between Long Distance Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectLong Distance Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentLong hours on highways, traveling between cities or statesDaily routes within local areas, primarily on school grounds and city streets
Employer & IndustryTransportation companies, charter services, or school districts for long-haul tripsSchool districts or private schools for daily student transportation
Common Search & ComparisonLong Distance Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver

While both roles require a CDL with passenger endorsement and involve transporting passengers, Long Distance Bus Drivers typically travel longer distances across states or countries, often working on scheduled routes for extended periods. School Bus Drivers focus on daily local routes, primarily transporting students within a school district. The work environment, schedule, and travel scope are the main differences between these two roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a long distance bus driver?

To thrive as a Long Distance Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and strong knowledge of road safety regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, electronic logging devices, and vehicle inspection procedures is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help drivers manage passenger needs and handle unexpected situations on the road. These competencies ensure the safe, timely, and comfortable transport of passengers over long distances while maintaining compliance with industry standards.

What disqualifies you from being a long distance bus driver?

Long distance bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with the appropriate endorsements, a history of serious traffic violations or DUI, or medical conditions that impair driving ability. Additionally, a clean driving record and the ability to pass background checks and drug tests are usually required; failure to meet these standards can disqualify candidates.

How much do long distance bus drivers make?

Long distance bus drivers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and region. They often work long hours and may need commercial driver's licenses (CDL) and safety certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Minnesota?

For Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Long Distance Bus Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Long Distance Bus Driver job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,349 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

$24.70 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

The Lead Transit Operator (Lead Driver) is responsible for driving assigned routes and backing up other drivers as needed to ensure continuous service. In addition to operating the vehicle, the Lead Transit Operator assists leadership personnel, such as the Transportation Operations Coordinator, with a variety of administrative and operational tasks. These can include reporting, scheduling, conducting driver observations, and providing route training to new or current drivers. The Lead Transit Operator also helps with the timing and planning of routes, coordinates the scheduling of vehicle maintenance, and conducts regular vehicle and facility inspections to ensure safety and operational readiness. Additionally, the Lead Transit Operator plays a key role in resolving dispatch issues, ensuring smooth and efficient transit operations. (Full position description will be shared with applicants selected for in-person interviews; to request full description, call 507-316-0610.)

This full-time position (40 hours per week) will be based in either Faribault, Northfield, or Zumbrota and required to travel throughout our service area, primarily in Rice and Goodhue counties. The pay range is $24.70-$27.00 per hour, based on experience and qualification.

Job offers are contingent on a reference check; a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review; a criminal background study with fingerprinting through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS); a Medical Examiners Certificate ("Medical Card"); a Fitness-for-Duty Exam paid for by the agency at the clinic of the agency's choosing; and a pre-employment Department of Transportation (DOT) drug test. Employees in this position are subject to random and reasonable suspicion DOT drug and alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Required Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 2-years CDL driving experience
  • Current, valid driver's license for at least three (3) years in good standing as defined by agency insurance company (including, but not limited to, no more than 1 moving violation in the precious 12-months.
  • Minimum 1-2 years of supervisory experience
  • Ability to successfully pass required background study (including, but not limited to, no felony convictions).
  • Current, valid personal automobile insurance.
  • Strong organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Willingness/ability to adhere to all CFR Part 40 regulations as they pertain to public transit operators, including but not limited to submission to and successfully passing of drug and alcohol testing throughout employment.
  • Ability to pass a Fitness for Duty Exam, paid for by the agency at a clinic of the agency's choosing.
  • Ability to safely operate large transit vehicles, associated equipment, mobility lift, and security devices safely and efficiently.
  • Ability to read, write and speak English to communicate effectively with passengers, dispatchers and in emergency situations.
  • Demonstrated adherence to all state and highway safety rules and regulations.
  • Ability to use tablets and other basic transit software.
  • Ability to pass Driver Training on topics including, but not limited to:
    • Passenger Assistance
    • Maltreatment Awareness
    • Defensive Driving
    • First Aid/CPR
    • Child Passenger Safety

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Fluency in one or more languages other than English, especially Spanish or Somali

Functional Requirements:

  • Frequently office-based position, with utilization of computer and other basic office equipment.
  • Frequent travel using personal means to meet with participants or travel to alternate workspace.
  • Ability to sit for long periods of time while driving and use hands to finger, handle, or grasp objects and controls, and reach with hands and arms; Occasional bending/squatting/reaching.
  • Ability to safely operate large transit vehicles and equipment safely in all types of weather and environmental conditions.
  • Ability to pass a Fitness for Duty Exam, paid for by the agency at a clinic of the agency's choosing.
  • Ability to adhere to ADA compliance and reasonable accommodation requirements and physically assist passengers personally, or with mobility devices or property as needed.
  • Potentially frequent lifting of up to 75lbs.

About Three Rivers Community Action

Join Three Rivers Community Action, a dynamic nonprofit organization established in 1966 by dedicated local citizens. Committed to enhancing lives across our service area, Three Rivers collaborates with community partners to provide warmth, transportation, food, housing, advocacy and education to individuals and families.

At Three Rivers, we seek collaborative solutions, lead with integrity, embrace diversity, inspire mutual trust, listen to community needs, respect the people we work with, and promote equity, empowerment and self-sufficiency.

We advocate ardently for our program participants at local, state, and federal levels, leveraging our extensive network of human service agencies to provide comprehensive support. Through these partnerships, we optimize resources to better serve families and communities, catalyzing meaningful change and fostering inclusivity.

We realize dreams of homeownership for people such as single parents, individuals with disabilities, and families. We enable seniors to age in place with vital services like home-delivered meals, transportation, and energy assistance. Through initiatives like Head Start, we ensure children are equipped for school success while supporting their families holistically. At every stage of life, Three Rivers strives to empower and uplift those we serve. Join us in making a difference, one life at a time.

Watch this 2-minutevideothat provides a snapshot of our programs, values, and a participant story that reflects the heart of what we do.

About the Benefits

Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package tailored to support your well-being and enrich your life:

  • Competitive wages with opportunities for advancement
  • Extensive benefits for regular full-time staff (30+ hours per week), including affordable health insurance with access to employer-sponsored NICE Healthcare and an HRA, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), voluntary dental, vision, voluntary life/AD&D, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance, ensuring peace of mind and security for you and your loved ones.
  • Immediate eligibility for investment in our 403(b), with a generous automatic match (after 1 year of employment), aiding in building a stable financial future
  • Generous paid time off, guaranteeing you sufficient time for relaxation, rejuvenation, and personal interests for regular staff working 30+ hours per week
  • Access to our robust Employee Assistance Program, providing assistance and resources for both personal and professional challenges
  • Training and professional development opportunities aimed at enhancing your skills and fostering career growth
  • A supportive work environment that values lived experience, respects personal representation, teamwork, and recognizes individual contributions.

Experience these outstanding benefits, among others, as we actively support your development, well-being, and success.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that values lived experience. We strongly encourage individuals from under-represented populations and those with relevant lived experiences to apply. We value diverse perspectives and backgrounds. Your unique experiences and perspectives are an asset to our team, and we welcome your application.

Three Rivers is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. If you require assistance or accommodation during the application process due to a disability, please contactHuman Resources atjobs@threeriverscap.orgor 507-316-0610.

Online application preferred:www.threeriverscap.org/careers. However, a paper application form may be requested by calling 507-316-0610.

Three Rivers is an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer