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Motor Coach Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Motor Coach Driver - Employer Provided Travel & Accommodation Looking for a new and exciting career? Student Transportation of America, doing business as Diversified Transportation, is actively ...

Motor Coach Driver - Employer Provided Travel & Accommodation Looking for a new and exciting career? Student Transportation of America, doing business as Diversified Transportation, is actively ...

Operates public transit coaches of varying sizes over assigned routes in a safe and timely manner; may operate coaches during peak or non-peak workload situations and emergencies, and other non ...

Coach Operator / Bus Driver

San Bernardino, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

Operates public transit coaches of varying sizes over assigned routes in a safe and timely manner; may operate coaches during peak or non-peak workload situations and emergencies, and other non ...

Coach Operator / Bus Driver

San Bernardino, CA ยท On-site

$21.75 - $29/hr

Operates public transit coaches of varying sizes over assigned routes in a safe and timely manner; may operate coaches during peak or non-peak workload situations and emergencies, and other non ...

Operates public transit coaches of varying sizes over assigned routes in a safe and timely manner; may operate coaches during peak or non-peak workload situations and emergencies, and other non ...

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Motor Coach Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$24

$33

How much do motor coach operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for motor coach operator in California is $24.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a motor coach operator?

A motor coach operator provides transport services for passengers using a bus, motor coach, or another similar vehicle. Your job duties in this career may include driving passengers on set routes or operating your bus on charter trips or in partnership with a tour company. In addition to acting as a driver, your responsibilities could include loading luggage and transporting goods to deliver on your route. As a motor coach operator, you often need to work long hours and stay overnight during an intercity or interstate trip.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a motor coach operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Motor Coach Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and strong knowledge of transportation regulations and safety procedures. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and basic vehicle maintenance is typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and effective communication skills help operators manage passenger needs and resolve issues on the road. These competencies are essential to ensure safe, efficient travel and a positive experience for passengers.

What are some common challenges motor coach operators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Motor Coach Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating unfamiliar routes, managing tight schedules, and ensuring passenger safety and comfort. Dealing with traffic congestion and unpredictable weather conditions can also add stress to the role. These challenges can be addressed by thorough route planning, maintaining clear communication with dispatchers, and staying updated on weather and traffic reports. Additionally, strong customer service skills help operators handle passenger inquiries and concerns effectively, contributing to a smoother, more enjoyable journey for everyone.

What is the difference between Motor Coach Operator vs Bus Driver?

AspectMotor Coach OperatorBus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentLong-distance travel, charter, and tour servicesPublic transit, school buses, or local routes
Employer & IndustryCharter companies, tour operators, transportation servicesPublic transit agencies, schools, private companies
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for driving qualifications and routesMore focused on local routes and schedules

Motor Coach Operators and Bus Drivers both require CDL with passenger endorsements and work in transportation. However, Motor Coach Operators typically handle long-distance, charter, or tour services, while Bus Drivers usually operate local or school routes. Their work environments and employer types differ, but their credentials and safety standards are similar.

How much do motor coach operators make?

Motor coach operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and may work irregular hours or overnight shifts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Motor Coach Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Motor Coach Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Motor Coach Operator jobs in California?

For Motor Coach Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Motor Coach Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Motor Coach Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Motor Coach Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Motor Coach Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Motor Coach Operator jobs in CA?

For Motor Coach Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Motor Coach Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,248 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Motor Coach Operator Trainee

City of Santa Monica

Santa Monica, CA โ€ข On-site

$25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Join Big Blue Bus - We are looking for customer service and safety-minded Motor Coach Operators to join our growing team. Blue Awaits You. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ra3l6EAo4BA Looking to steer your career in a new direction

Driving for Big Blue Bus can be a long-lasting career with company-covered benefits and training opportunities. Every day, Big Blue Bus connects thousands of people to new opportunities that await them. As a Motor Coach Operator, you will have a unique opportunity to enrich the lives of our customers, by ensuring they arrive safely and on time to their destinations.

Further, you'll meet new people, be an ambassador for the City of Santa Monica, and experience growth opportunities at every stop. If you enjoy driving, seek real opportunities for career advancement, and are passionate about making a difference in the community, then we invite you to drive Blue. A Motor Coach Operator operates a motor coach (bus) on an assigned route and schedule.

In order to become a Motor Coach Operator, successful candidates must complete an eight-week formal training program as a Motor Coach Operator Trainee after which they are eligible to be promoted from a part-time Motor Coach Operator to a Motor Coach Operator. The training program is administered by the Santa Monica Department of Transportation. During the 8-weeks of training, the hourly rate is $25.00

Upon successful completion of the training program, the candidate will advance to the classification of part-time Motor Coach Operator at salary Step 1 ($27.58) and will serve a one-year probationary period. Motor Coach Operator - Hourly Salary Step 1: $27.58 Step 2: $29.55 Step 3: $31.52 Step 4: $33.49 Step 5: $35.46 Step 6: $39.40 DEFINITION: Participates in a formal classroom and motor coach operation training program. Motor Coach Operator Trainee is expected to successfully complete the training program as prescribed by the Santa Monica Big Blue Department to be eligible to become a Motor Coach Operator

SUPERVISION: Works under close supervision of a Motor Coach Operator Training Coordinator. Detailed instructions are provided. Routine work is performed under direction of a Motor Coach Operator Training Coordinator and/or designee.

Representative Duties Participates in a formal training program to learn techniques and safety procedures for operating a motor coach. Learns and observes traffic laws, vehicle code regulations, and appropriate safety rules and regulations. Learns pre-operation vehicle preparation and inspection procedures.

Learns and practices defensive driving techniques. Follows department standards and procedures for maintaining motor coach appearance and cleanliness while in service. Operates wheelchair lift and bike rack equipment.

Provides directions and information to the public concerning routes, schedules, and transfers. Makes stops announcements. Assists passengers, when needed.

Prepares various reports, including detailed accident reports, daily operation reports, forms for lost articles, and witness/courtesy cards. Performs various duties related to fare collection, tariff acceptance, fare box reading and recording, and transfer issuance and receipt. Performs other duties, as assigned.

Requirements Knowledge, Abilities and Skills: Knowledge of: Effective customer service techniques Basic mathematics Driver and vehicle safety rules and regulations Ability to: Learn to operate a motor coach safely and properly Respond to inquiries from the public in a courteous and tactful manner Deal effectively with the public Work with others in a cooperative, patient, and professional manner Follow written and oral instructions Perform simple mathematical computations Prepare simple reports Read maps Conduct safety checks Communicate on a two-way radio Work with persons from diverse social, cultural and economic backgrounds as well as a variety of work styles, personalities, and approaches Skill in: Reading, and writing and communicating in English at an appropriate level Driving a passenger vehicle Education, Training and Experience: Education Graduation from high school or the equivalent. Minimum 21 years of age at time of application. Experience: One year of recent, paid customer service work experience assisting and providing information to the public.

Licenses and Certificates: Possession of a valid California Class C driver license with a minimum of two (2) years of continuous safe driving. If hired, and prior to the first day of training, must possess a California Class A or B commercial driver permit with appropriate medical certification, passenger endorsement, and with no restrictions for weight, number of passengers or air brakes. Must also be able to obtain a Verification of Transit Training Document at the conclusion of training.

Additional Requirements: In order to qualify for the position of Motor Coach Operator Trainee and to complete probation as a Motor Coach Operator, you must not have any of the following convictions, violations, and/or causes: (1) Within the preceding 12 months from the date of application, been involved as a driver in three or more accidents in which the driver caused or contributed to the accidents. (2) Within the preceding three years from the date of application, had committed any violation that resulted in a conviction with a DMV 2 Point count or more. (3) Within the preceding three years from the date of application, had committed three or more DMV 1 Point count violations.

(4) Within the preceding three years from the date of application, had driving privileges revoked, suspended, or placed on probation. WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is performed sometimes indoors but regularly outside in seasonal climate and weather conditions. Work may require exposure to odors, fumes, oil and fuel.

Drives for prolonged periods of time with no rest period. Heavy city traffic conditions are encountered on a daily basis. Follows a schedule to leave and pick up passengers.

Noise from traffic and a two-way radio, slippery surfaces and dust are conditions often encountered. Position requires availability to work variable shifts, weekends, evenings, holidays, on-call and overtime. Physical demands include driving, walking, constant arm and leg movements, and sitting for long periods of time.

Stooping, bending and lifting up to 30 lbs may be required. This is a safety sensitive position subject to drug and alcohol testing according to City policy and Federal Transit Administration regulations HOW TO APPLY: All applicants must submit an online City application and required supplemental questions to be considered for this position. Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete.

Resumes, CVs and cover letters are not reviewed as part of the application screening process and should not be submitted. NOTE: Upon offer of employment, candidates will be subject to a US Department of Transportation (DOT) pre-employment screen for alcohol and controlled substances set forth in DOT regulation 49 CFR Parts 40 and 655. Candidates will be required to provide written consent to obtain drug and alcohol testing records from all prior employers in the last two (2) years.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION: To receive consideration, you must submit a current copy of your K-4 or online driving record print-out from the Department of Motor Vehicles with your application. It must be a K-4 or online driving record print out obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles office, Department of Motor Vehicles Kiosk or website. Printouts from other agencies such as AAA will not be accepted.

"Current" is defined as being issued within 30 days of the date of your application submittal. All materials must be received in the Human Resources Department . Failure to do so will result in your application being disqualified.

The DMV online driving record can be obtained by clicking the website below: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/customer-service/request-vehicle-or-driver-records/online-driver-record-request/ PLEASE NOTE: IF YOU SUBMITTED AN ONLINE DRIVING RECORD AND YOU ARE INVITED TO THE DEPARTMENT INTERVIEW, YOU WILL BE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN AND PRESENT A K4 PRINTOUT FROM THE DMV AT THE TIME OF YOUR INTERVIEW. FURTHER MATERIALS/DOCUMENTS MAY BE REQUIRED THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS. NOTE: Veterans' Preference points shall be applied to this entry level civil service position in accordance with the City of Santa Monica Human Resources Department guidelines

To be considered for Veterans' Preference points, you must submit a copy of your discharge papers (DD214) at the time of application. SELECTION PROCESS: All applicants will be reviewed and only those determined to meet Minimum Qualifications, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS: Candidates who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process will be subject to a thorough background investigation.

NOTE: If three or more qualified City employees apply and pass the examination, a promotional list will be established in addition to an open-competitive list. Supplemental Information The City of Santa Monica is a progressive, inclusive and culturally-rich community. As leaders in public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a highly-talented workforce where people of diverse races, religions, cultures and lifestyles thrive.

Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and where their differences make a positive impact. The City is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces the diversity of our employees.

Join us. Special assistance with the application and examination process is available, upon request, for persons with disabilities. Call (310) 458-8246, TDD (310) 458-8696 (Hearing Impaired Only).

Please note the request for reasonable accommodations must be made to Human Resources at least three work days prior to the examination.