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Professional Bus Operator Jobs in Covington, GA (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Conyers, GA ยท On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Attends and participates in trainings, and other continuing education, career and professional ... Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License. * Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), class B with ...

Bus Driver

Conyers, GA ยท On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Attends and participates in trainings, and other continuing education, career and professional ... Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License. * Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), class B with ...

Bus Driver

Conyers, GA

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Attends and participates in trainings, and other continuing education, career and professional ... Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License. * Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), class B with ...

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Professional Bus Operator information

See Covington, GA salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do professional bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional bus operator in Covington, GA is $19.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a professional bus operator typically handle challenging passenger situations during a route?

Professional Bus Operators are trained to manage a variety of passenger interactions, including handling disputes, fare issues, or disruptions, with calm professionalism. They follow specific protocols provided by their transit agency, which may include de-escalation techniques and clear communication. Operators are supported by dispatch teams and, when necessary, security personnel to ensure safety for all passengers. Building rapport and staying attentive to the needs of diverse riders are important aspects of the role, making strong interpersonal skills valuable in this position.

What is the difference between Professional Bus Operator vs School Bus Driver?

AspectProfessional Bus OperatorSchool Bus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsementCDL with school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, charter services, private companiesSchool campuses, student transportation
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, private transportation companiesSchool districts, educational institutions

Both roles require a CDL with passenger or school bus endorsements and involve driving passengers. However, a Professional Bus Operator typically works in public transit or private charter services, while a School Bus Driver specializes in transporting students for school districts. The key differences lie in the work environment and specific endorsements needed, but both roles focus on safe passenger transportation.

What is a professional bus operator?

Professional bus operators are trained individuals responsible for safely driving buses along designated routes to transport passengers. They ensure passenger safety, adhere to traffic laws, assist riders with boarding and fare payment, and maintain schedules. In addition to driving, they often provide customer service, answer questions about routes, and handle emergency situations if they arise. Professional bus operators may work for public transit agencies, schools, or private companies, and typically require a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional bus operator?

To thrive as a Professional Bus Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), safe driving skills, and a strong understanding of traffic laws and routes. Familiarity with vehicle inspection procedures, fare collection systems, and sometimes GPS or scheduling software is often required. Excellent customer service, patience, and strong communication skills help operators interact effectively with passengers and handle challenging situations calmly. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring passenger safety, maintaining schedules, and providing a positive experience for riders.
What cities near Covington, GA are hiring for Professional Bus Operator jobs? Cities near Covington, GA with the most Professional Bus Operator job openings:

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Transportation/Bus Driver
Date Posted:
5/5/2026
Location:
ROCKDALE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Title: School Bus Driver
Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the Director of Facilities, to ensure the safe transportation of students, staff, and others to and from school, residential neighborhoods, and field trips.
Essential Functions:
  • Safely drives a school bus on days when school is in session over designated routes in accordance with time schedules, loading and unloading students at designated locations.
  • Transports students, teachers and others on school field or activity trips.
  • Inspects assigned bus on a daily basis prior to transporting of passengers to ensure that bus is in good, clean and safe working order.
  • Cleans and refuels bus as needed.
  • Ensures that a communication device is in proper working order before each trip.
  • Reports all mechanical deficiencies, traffic violations, or accidents, promptly.
  • Arranges for and ensures completion of routine maintenance of bus (e.g., oil change); transporting the bus to and from maintenance and/or repair facilities.
  • Maintains order and discipline in an effective and courteous manner among students being transported in accordance with district policies and procedures; reports any incidents involving student discipline.
  • Observes and tracks route timing, such as total time en-route, time between stops, loading and unloading times or any other requested information for the purpose of establishing route efficiency, as requested.
  • Maintains and submits records and reports as required.
  • Follows procedures to ensure that no child is left alone on bus without adult supervision at any time, and that all children have departed bus at the end of all bus routes (morning, evening and during field trips or other special trips).
  • Inventories bus emergency and first aid supplies and equipment; reports needs to the Director.
  • Prepares aides and children for bus drills and ensures bus evacuation drills are held as required.
  • In case of accidents/emergencies, evacuates children according to written and practiced procedures, ensures that medical emergency procedures are followed; completes a written report as required.
  • Attends and participates in trainings, and other continuing education, career and professional development opportunities.

Additional Duties
  • Performs other related tasks as assigned.

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
Equipment
  • Uses standard automotive and bus equipment, and telephone.

Travel Requirements
  • Travels to and from school district buildings, to vehicle service stations, field trip locations and other destinations are required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of all traffic laws, regulations, road signs and related information.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate the bus, conduct pre-trip inspections, and clean the bus.
  • Visual and auditory acuity within professionally determined normal ranges, with correction if needed.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Effective organizational, problem solving, and time management skills.
  • Ability to learn and comprehend information from procedures manuals and other materials. Ability to comprehend and follow traffic signs required.
  • Ability to physically move through the bus, center and classrooms.
  • Ability to maintain composure and perform responsibilities under pressure and in cases of accidents or other emergencies.
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
  • Works in standard school bus environment.

Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.
Qualifications Profile
Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying. Typical qualifications would be equivalent to:
Certification/License:
  • Motor Vehicle Operator's (DMV) License.
  • Current Commercial Driver's License (CDL), class B with Passenger and School Bus endorsement.

Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Bilingual, both oral and written, ability (English/Spanish) is preferred.

Experience:
  • Successful prior experience working as a bus driver, preferably in a school district or transporting children.

FLSA Status: Nonexempt
Attachment(s):
  • Enter file description