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Mini Bus Driver Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sunrise Transportation

School Bus Driver

Naperville, IL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Must be at least 21 years old to drive a Suburban, Mini-Bus, MPV, or Lift Bus for Special Needs students * Must have a valid driver's license for 3 continuous years and be in good standing

Carol Stream Park District

Bus Driver

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Bus Driver/Bus Driver Date Posted: 8/1/2026 Location: Simkus Recreation Center Date Available: ASAP ... Mini Golf Passes, recognition awards, and social activities. Hours: - Part-time position (employees ...

Carol Stream Park District

Bus Driver

Carol Stream, IL

$20 - $24/hr

... Mini Golf Passes, recognition awards, and social activities. Hours: - Part-time position (employees ... A Bus Driver is needed for the Park District's 39 passenger bus; primarily for senior day trips ...

Connect Transit

Bus Operator - Full Time

Normal, IL · On-site

$52K/yr

You will be providing this service while driving a bus, mini-bus, or van that we've fully trained ... Paid on the job training at first year rate, including paying for your CDL permit and license.

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All JobsMini Bus Driver JobsMini Bus Driver Jobs in Illinois

Mini Bus Driver information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$19

$27

How much do mini bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini bus driver in Illinois is $19.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mini bus driver?

Mini Bus Drivers are professional drivers responsible for transporting groups of passengers in vehicles smaller than standard buses, typically accommodating between 8 and 30 people. Their duties include ensuring passenger safety, following designated routes and schedules, conducting routine vehicle inspections, and assisting passengers as needed. Mini Bus Drivers often work for schools, tour companies, private organizations, or public transit systems. They must hold the appropriate driver’s license and may require additional certifications depending on the employer and region.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a mini bus driver?

To thrive as a Mini Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial or passenger vehicle driving license, safe driving skills, and a good understanding of traffic laws. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, basic vehicle maintenance, and sometimes a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) license are typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help drivers interact positively with passengers and handle unexpected situations. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, reliable, and pleasant transportation experiences for all passengers.

What challenges do mini bus drivers face during their daily routes?

Mini bus drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating through heavy traffic, adhering to tight schedules, and ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers, including those with special needs. They must remain patient and attentive, especially when dealing with unpredictable road conditions or last-minute route changes. Good communication skills are essential, as drivers frequently interact with passengers, parents, and school or organization staff to coordinate pick-ups and drop-offs smoothly.

What is the difference between Mini Bus Driver vs Shuttle Driver?

AspectMini Bus DriverShuttle Driver
CredentialsDriver's license (often commercial)Driver's license (often commercial)
Work EnvironmentTransporting small groups, tours, or school tripsTransporting passengers on scheduled routes, airports, hotels
Industry UsageTourism, education, private transportHospitality, corporate, airport shuttles

Mini Bus Drivers and Shuttle Drivers both require similar licenses and often work in passenger transport. Mini Bus Drivers typically operate smaller buses for tours or private groups, while Shuttle Drivers focus on scheduled routes like airports or hotels. Both roles are essential in passenger transportation industries, but their specific environments and routes differ.

What disqualifies you from being a mini bus driver?

Disqualifications for a mini bus driver typically include having a valid driver's license with the appropriate class, a clean driving record, and passing background checks. Additionally, failing to meet age requirements, having certain medical conditions, or lacking necessary certifications such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) can disqualify candidates.

What do I need to be a mini bus driver?

To become a mini bus driver, you typically need a valid driver's license appropriate for commercial vehicles, often a special passenger endorsement, and a clean driving record. Some regions require a background check, a medical exam, and completion of a driver training program. Additionally, good communication skills and knowledge of safety regulations are important for this role.

What kind of license do you need to drive a mini bus?

Mini bus drivers typically need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger endorsement, which allows them to operate vehicles designed to carry more than 16 passengers. Requirements may vary by region, and drivers often need to pass written and skills tests, as well as meet age and health criteria. Additional certifications or training may be required for specific types of mini buses or transportation services.

What type of mini bus driver makes the most money?

Experienced mini bus drivers who operate for private companies, corporate clients, or specialized services such as airport shuttles or tour companies tend to earn higher wages. Drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL), additional certifications, or those working in high-demand areas often make more money. Salary can also increase with years of experience and additional responsibilities like managing routes or training new drivers.

What are popular job titles related to Mini Bus Driver jobs in Illinois?

For Mini Bus Driver jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mini Bus Driver jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Mini Bus Driver jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Mini Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Mini Bus Driver job openings:

Mini Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mini Bus Driver job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,922 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

School Bus Driver

Naperville, IL

Sunrise Transportation
Education • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Sunrise Transportationexternal

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

School Bus Driver

$3,000 Sign-On Bonus!

Sunrise Transportation, LLC is actively hiring School Bus Drivers for our Naperville location, located at 1400 W. Ogden Ave., Naperville, IL.

We are looking for safe, friendly, and dependable drivers to help transport our Special Education students to and from school. No experience is needed! Our elite team of trainers will provide the training you need to become a licensed and certified School Bus Driver.

Come join a team of exceptional and committed drivers who make a difference in the lives of students every day!

Perks
  • $3,000 Sign-On Bonus
  • Monthly Safety Bonus
  • Healthcare benefits for full-time employees, including medical, dental, and vision
  • PTO for employees, including part-time employees
  • 401(k)
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Weekends off
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid training
  • Great pay and incentives

Sign-on bonus is subject to eligibility requirements and applicable terms and conditions.

Offer of employment is conditioned upon successfully passing a drug test, medical screening, and background check.

Responsibilities
  • Drive and transport students in a safe and courteous manner
  • Greet students, maintain an on-time schedule, and provide a safe and welcoming environment
  • Notify dispatch of any incidents, accidents, or mechanical concerns
  • Perform other duties as required
Qualifications
  • Must be at least 21 years old to drive a Suburban, Mini-Bus, MPV, or Lift Bus for Special Needs students
  • Must have a valid driver's license for 3 continuous years and be in good standing
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills
  • High school diploma or GED preferred
Requirements
  • Ability to sit for extended periods of time
  • Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry tools, objects, or equipment above shoulder level without assistance
  • Ability to move up and down stairs easily
  • Ability to reach overhead and below the knees, including bending, twisting, pulling, and stooping
Join Sunrise Transportation

Sunrise is in the business of safely moving children forward with compassion and care. With over 30 years of experience, best-in-class service standards, and a strong safety record, you can count on us to move the most special people in your lives.

We strive to brighten each student's day while providing better communication and reliable, attentive service that lightens the load for parents and school districts alike.

When you work with Sunrise, you know the difference. Warm and friendly, on time and always there, day in and day out, just like the sun rising.

Apply today and take advantage of our $3,000 Sign-On Bonus!

  

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