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Mini Bus Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sunrise Transportation

School Bus Driver

Naperville, IL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

... Mini-bus, MPV or Lift Bus for Special Needs Students • A valid driver's license for 3 continuous years and in good standing • Excellent customer and communication skills • High school diploma ...

Sunrise Transportation

School Bus Driver

Naperville, IL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

... Mini-bus, MPV or Lift Bus for Special Needs Students • A valid driver's license for 3 continuous years and in good standing • Excellent customer and communication skills • High school diploma ...

Carol Stream Park District

Bus Driver

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Bus Driver/Bus Driver Date Posted: 6/1/2026 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 · On-site

$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 ...

School City of Hobart

Bus Aide

Hobart, IN

$16.50/hr

Position Summary To assist the Bus Driver in transporting students to and from school and related ... Bus Aide: $16.50/hour * Bus Aide w/ Mini Bus Endorsement: $18.00/hour Benefits (eligible ...

School City of Hobart

Bus Aide

Hobart, IN · On-site

$18/hr

Position Summary To assist the Bus Driver in transporting students to and from school and related ... Bus Aide: $16.50/hour * Bus Aide w/ Mini Bus Endorsement: $18.00/hour Benefits (eligible ...

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All JobsMini Bus Driver JobsMini Bus Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL

Mini Bus Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$8

$20

$29

How much do mini bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini bus driver in Chicago, IL is $20.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Mini Bus Drivers?

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

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 disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

To qualify as a mini bus driver, candidates must have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement, a clean driving record, and pass background checks. Disqualifications include a history of serious traffic violations, DUI/DWI convictions, or criminal offenses that pose safety risks. Additionally, drivers must meet health and vision standards and often undergo drug testing before employment.

Do you need a special license for a mini bus?

Mini bus drivers typically need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger endorsement, depending on the vehicle's size and passenger capacity. Requirements vary by region, and drivers may also need to pass background checks and medical exams to ensure safety and compliance.

How much do minibus drivers make?

Minibus drivers typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $25,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) and may work full-time or part-time schedules, including evenings and weekends.

What type of bus driver makes the most money?

Charter bus drivers and long-distance interstate bus drivers tend to earn higher salaries compared to school bus or local transit drivers due to longer routes and additional responsibilities. Experience, certifications, and working for private companies or specialized services can also increase earning potential for bus drivers.

What are some common challenges 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 are popular job titles related to Mini Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL? For Mini Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mini Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Mini Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Mini Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Mini Bus Driver job openings:
Mini Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mini Bus Driver job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,795 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
School Bus Driver

School Bus Driver

Sunrise Transportation

Naperville, IL • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

School Bus/ Transportation Driver *Up to $22/hour 
Sunrise Transportation, LLC is actively hiring school bus drivers for their Naperville location, located at 1400 W. Ogden Ave, Naperville, Ave. We are looking for safe, friendly drivers to help transport our Special Ed Students to and from school. Experience is not needed for this position; our elite team of trainers will train you to be a licensed and certified School Bus Driver. Come join the team of exceptional and committed drivers who make a difference every day!
 
*Up to $22/hour (includes hourly rate, and incentives) *
 
Drive a Caravan, Suburban, MPV, Minibus, or Lift Bus ***Park Your Vehicle at Home***
 
Perks
*Monthly Safety Bonus*
  • Earn up to $22 per hour * Higher pay for permitted drivers*
  • Healthcare benefits for full-time employees (medical, dental and vision)
  • PTO for employees including part-time
  • 401K
  • Flexible work schedules – off weekends
  • Paid Holidays & Paid training
  • Great pay and incentives
 
*Offer of employment is conditioned upon passing a drug test, medical screening, and background check*
 
Responsibilities:
• Drive and transport students in a safe and courteous manner
• Greet students, ensure on-time schedule, and maintain a safe environment
• Notify dispatch of any incidents, accidents, mechanical concerns
• Other duties as required
Qualifications:
• 21 years old to drive a Suburban, Mini-bus, MPV or Lift Bus for Special Needs Students
• A valid driver’s license for 3 continuous years and in good standing
• Excellent customer and communication skills
• High school diploma or GED preferred
 Requirements:
• Sit for extended periods of time
• Lift, push, pull, and carry tools, objects, or equipment above shoulder level without assistance
• Move up and down stairs easily
• Reach overhead and below the knees, including bending, twisting, pulling, and stooping
Sunrise is in the business of safely moving children forward with compassion and care. With over 30 years of experience and best-in-class service standards and safety records, you can count on us to move the most special people in your lives, brightening their day, and with better communications and more reliable attentive service, lightening the load for parents and school districts alike. When you work with us, you know the difference. Warm and friendly, on time and always there, day in and day out - just like the sun rising.
  

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