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Long Distance Bus Driver Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

ESS

ESS Bus Monitor (Bus Aide)

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$11.50 - $14.75/hr

TB Test * CDL not required Physical Requirements The Bus Monitor must meet physical demands ... Distance of 30 feet * Within 30 seconds This assessment simulates: * Assisting or removing an ...

ESS

ESS Bus Monitor (Bus Aide)

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$11.50 - $14.75/hr

TB Test * CDL not required Physical Requirements The Bus Monitor must meet physical demands ... Distance of 30 feet * Within 30 seconds This assessment simulates: * Assisting or removing an ...

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®

Driver / Laborer

Camden, SC · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

OPTIONAL** long distance move opportunities • Work with an awesome team and help make a difference in our customers' lives every day Who We're Looking For • 21 years or older, have a valid driver ...

Professional Transportation Inc.

Driver

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13/hr

No heavy lifting or long-distance walking * Room for growth and advancement within the company ... Have a valid driver's license and clean driving record * Have a minimum of 3 years driving ...

Professional Transportation Inc

Driver

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13/hr

No heavy lifting or long-distance walking * Room for growth and advancement within the company ... Have a valid driver's license and clean driving record * Have a minimum of 3 years driving ...

PROFESSIONAL TRANSPORTATION INC

Driver

Columbia, SC · On-site

$12 - $13/hr

No heavy lifting or long-distance walking * Room for growth and advancement within the company ... Have a valid driver's license and clean driving record * Have a minimum of 3 years driving ...

Preiss

Shuttle Driver - Part Time

Columbia, SC · On-site

Clean the bus as needed * Fuel the bus * Report any known accidents, observed or suspected ... Ability to sit for long periods of time * Ability to use hands and fingers * Ability to speak, see ...

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All JobsLong Distance Bus Driver JobsLong Distance Bus Driver Jobs in Columbia, SC

Long Distance Bus Driver information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$7

$18

$26

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for long distance bus driver in Columbia, SC is $18.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How much does a long distance bus driver make?

A long distance bus driver typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and region. They often work long hours and may need a commercial driver's license (CDL) and safety training to qualify.

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 clean driving record, and pass medical and background checks. Factors such as a history of DUI, drug violations, or serious traffic offenses can also disqualify candidates. Additionally, they must meet age requirements and be able to handle long hours and overnight schedules safely.

What are popular job titles related to Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Columbia, SC?

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

What job categories do people searching Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Long Distance Bus Driver jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Long Distance Bus Driver job openings:

Long Distance Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Long Distance Bus Driver job openings in Columbia, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,113 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

ESS Bus Monitor (Bus Aide)

ESS

West Columbia, SC • On-site

$11.50 - $14.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Substitute Bus Aide Position Summary The Bus Monitor (Bus Aide) assists the school bus driver in providing safe, orderly, and efficient transportation for students. The Bus Monitor helps maintain appropriate student behavior, assists with loading and unloading, supports students with special needs, and ensures safety procedures are followed at all times. This position plays a critical role in student safety during daily transportation and emergency situations. Minimum Qualifications

  • Must be 21 years of age or older
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred
  • Ability to work effectively with children of all ages and abilities
  • Ability to communicate clearly and professionally
  • Must pass required background checks
  • TB Test
  • CDL not required

Physical Requirements The Bus Monitor must meet physical demands necessary to assist students during emergencies. Physical Performance Test (PPT):

  • Drag a 125-pound object
  • Distance of 30 feet
  • Within 30 seconds

This assessment simulates:

  • Assisting or removing an unconscious or injured student
  • Emergency evacuation procedures
  • Demonstrating sufficient upper and lower body strength

The employee must be able to:

  • Lift, bend, twist, and stand for extended periods
  • Maintain proper body mechanics while assisting students
  • Perform emergency evacuation duties without assistance

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assist the bus driver in maintaining student safety and appropriate conduct
  • Supervise students during loading and unloading
  • Ensure students are properly seated and secure
  • Assist students with disabilities or special needs as assigned
  • Monitor behavior and document incidents as required
  • Support implementation of district transportation policies
  • Conduct student head counts when necessary
  • Assist with emergency evacuation drills and real emergencies
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding students and transportation matters
  • Communicate effectively with drivers, supervisors, school staff, and parents
  • Attend required training sessions

Training Requirements

  • All required transportation and safety training is completed after hiring
  • Must successfully complete district-required orientation and safety procedures prior to assignment (Physical Performance Test, Bus Evaluation Training, Wheelchair Securement Training, Student Management Training)
  • Ongoing professional development may be required

Work Environment`

  • Work is performed primarily on a school bus
  • Exposure to varying weather conditions
  • Requires frequent movement, alertness, and active supervision
  • Fast-paced environment requiring constant attention to student safety

For more information on ESS's requirements and processes, click here . Privacy Information When you apply for a position with ESS, we collect personal information such as:

  • Contact details (name, email, phone, address)
  • Application materials (resume, work history, education, references)
  • Information you choose to provide during the hiring process (interviews, assessments, background checks, as permitted by law)

We use this information to:

  • Evaluate your candidacy and qualifications
  • Conduct interviews and background checks
  • Manage our recruitment and hiring processes
  • Comply with applicable legal obligations

We do not sell or share applicant personal information. We retain it as long as necessary for recruitment, compliance, and potential future opportunities. You may have rights under U.S. state privacy laws, including to request access, correction, deletion, or limitation of your personal information. For details about our practices and your rights, please review our full Privacy Notices below. Click here if you are a California resident: CA Privacy Policy Click here if you reside in all other U.S. states: Privacy Policy

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