ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Per Diem School Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Diocese of Trenton

School Bus Driver

Red Bank, NJ · On-site

$20K/yr

Red Bank Catholic High SchoolRed Bank Catholic High School is seeking a part time school bus driver for per diem afternoon athletic runs and substitute AM/PM school routes. All of our vehicles meet ...

Diocese of Trenton

School Bus Driver

NJ · On-site

$20K/yr

Red Bank Catholic High School is seeking a part time school bus driver for per diem afternoon athletic runs and substitute AM/PM school routes. All of our vehicles meet Class C commercial license ...

Monroe One BOCES

School Bus Driver

Fairport, NY · On-site

$20.50 - $25.50/hr

Transportation Department TERM OF EMPLOYMENT: 10 Month Position; Full Time, Part Time, and Per Diem ... by a Bus Attendant. 4. Bus Driver must complete the NYS Basic 30-hour School Bus Driver ...

Iowa Central School Bus

School Bus Driver

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $27.25/hr

Iowa Central School Bus is now Hiring School Bus Drivers in Iowa City, IA. Our drivers have ... Starting at $21.75 up to $27.25 per hour (based on experience) * * Flexible Hours - no Nights or ...

Wisconsin Central School Bus

School Bus Driver

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$25.58 - $31.50/hr

Wisconsin Central School Bus is now Hiring School Bus Drivers in Milwaukee, WI. Our drivers have ... Guaranteed hours per week during school year (Minimum 20 hrs.) * Work schedules of 30-40 hrs./week ...

Indiana Central School Bus

School Bus Driver

Gary, IN · On-site

$25/hr

As a school bus driver at Indiana Central School Bus, you are not only an essential worker, but ... See other details below * $25.00 per hour * Paid weekly * No nights or weekends required

Missouri Central School Bus

School Bus Driver

Saint Ann, MO · On-site

$22.28 - $28.31/hr

As a school bus driver at Missouri Central School Bus, you are not only an essential worker, but ... Our starting wage for the 2025-2026 school year is $22.28 per hour, with a 4-hour guarantee per day.

Illinois Central School Bus

School Bus Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.65 - $29.20/hr

Current rate: $22.65 - $29.20 per hour * Pay is based on experience, see location for details ... Illinois Central School Bus Driver, your major responsibilities will be to: * Meet and greet ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPer Diem School Bus Driver Jobs

Per Diem School Bus Driver information

See salary details

$9

$21

$30

How much do per diem school bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem school bus driver in the United States is $21.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Per Diem School Bus Driver vs Full-Time School Bus Driver?

AspectPer Diem School Bus DriverFull-Time School Bus Driver
Work ScheduleOn-call, as-needed basisRegular, full-time schedule
CertificationsRequired CDL with passenger and school bus endorsementsSame as per diem, often with additional training
Employment BenefitsLimited or no benefitsTypically includes benefits like health insurance and paid time off
Work EnvironmentSchool bus routes during school hoursSimilar environment, with consistent routes and schedules

Per Diem School Bus Drivers work on an as-needed basis, often with flexible hours, while Full-Time School Bus Drivers have a set schedule and receive benefits. Both roles require similar certifications and operate in the same environment, but the employment terms differ significantly.

What is the highest paid school bus driver?

The highest paid school bus drivers typically earn salaries above the national average, with experienced drivers in certain regions or districts earning over $20 an hour or more annually. Factors such as experience, certifications, and additional responsibilities like special needs transportation can influence higher pay rates.

Can you work part-time as a school bus driver?

Per diem school bus drivers often have the flexibility to work part-time, as they typically fill in for full-time drivers or cover specific routes. Scheduling can vary by district, and some positions may require early mornings, afternoons, or occasional shifts. Certification and a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements are usually required regardless of full-time or part-time status.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Per Diem School Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Per Diem School Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, a clean driving record, and knowledge of safe driving practices. Familiarity with vehicle inspection procedures, two-way radios, and route navigation systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to manage student behavior are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, reliable transportation for students and foster a secure, orderly environment on the bus.

What is a Per Diem School Bus Driver?

A Per Diem School Bus Driver is a professional who transports students to and from school or school-related activities on an as-needed basis, rather than working a regular full-time or part-time schedule. These drivers are typically called in to fill gaps when regular drivers are unavailable due to illness, vacation, or other reasons. Per diem drivers must have a commercial driver's license with the appropriate endorsements and are responsible for ensuring the safety and timely transport of students. Their schedules can vary widely, offering flexibility but also unpredictability in hours.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

Per Diem School Bus Drivers are typically disqualified if they have a valid driver's license with a clean driving record, no serious criminal convictions, or a history of drug or alcohol abuse. Additionally, they must pass background checks, medical examinations, and sometimes drug tests, and must meet age and physical fitness requirements to ensure safe operation of school buses.

Is there a demand for school bus drivers?

There is a consistent demand for school bus drivers due to ongoing student transportation needs, driver shortages, and the requirement for qualified individuals with proper licensing and safety training. Many districts and transportation companies are actively hiring to fill these positions, often offering flexible schedules and competitive pay.

What are some common challenges Per Diem School Bus Drivers face and how can they prepare for them?

Per Diem School Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying routes, managing diverse student behaviors, and adjusting to irregular schedules. Since assignments can change daily, flexibility and quick learning are crucial. Strong communication with dispatchers and school staff helps ensure smooth transitions and successful problem-solving. Building rapport with students and maintaining a calm, authoritative presence can also make the job more manageable and rewarding.
What cities are hiring for Per Diem School Bus Driver jobs? Cities with the most Per Diem School Bus Driver job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of School Bus Driver jobs? The most popular types of School Bus Driver jobs are:
What states have the most Per Diem School Bus Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Per Diem School Bus Driver jobs include:
Per Diem School Bus Driver jobs near you
School Bus Driver

School Bus Driver

Diocese of Trenton

Red Bank, NJ • On-site

$20K/yr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Support Staff/School bus driver
Date Posted:
6/9/2025
Location:
Red Bank Catholic High School
Date Available:
8/25/25
Closing Date:
8/1/25
School:
Red Bank Catholic High SchoolRed Bank Catholic High School is seeking a part time school bus driver for per diem afternoon athletic runs and substitute AM/PM school routes. All of our vehicles meet Class C commercial license requirements through the state of New Jersey. Passenger and School Bus endorsements are a must. Please reach out to RBC Vice President of Operations & Finance Mr. Joseph Montano at jmontano@redbankcatholic.com for more information.
The salary range for this position is $20,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
As an employee, you will be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package within your first 12 months of employment, which may include:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement plan options, including 403(b)
  • Paid time off (PTO)

Apply