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Public Bus Driver Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Iowa Central School Bus

School Bus Driver

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $27.25/hr

... public *Conditions apply - see location for details To qualify as a School Bus Driver candidate ... you must: * Be at least 21 years old * Possess a valid driver's license for the previous 3 years

Iowa Central School Bus

School Bus Driver

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $27.25/hr

... public *Conditions apply - see location for details To qualify as a School Bus Driver candidate ... you must: * Be at least 21 years old * Possess a valid driver's license for the previous 3 years

Sioux City Community School District

Bus Driver

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Promotes good public relations by personal appearance, attitude, conversation, and by the safe and ... Attends bus driver meetings and in-service training to improve skills, attitudes, and knowledge of ...

Dubuque Community Schools

26-27 Bus Driver

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$23.73/hr

Drivers, Attendants, Dispatchers, Mechanics & General Public Supervises: Students Reports to ... The bus driver is primarily responsible for the overall safe operation of the vehicle. The ...

Eckerd Connects

Shuttle Bus Driver

Denison, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligible Employer Service Contract Act (SCA) Position Hourly Rate: $17.50 - $19.50 Duties and Responsibilities * The Shuttle Bus Driver responsible for ...

Eckerd Youth Alternatives

Shuttle Bus Driver

Denison, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligible Employer Service Contract Act (SCA) Position Hourly Rate: $17.50 - $19.50 Duties and Responsibilities * The Shuttle Bus Driver responsible for ...

Altorfer CAT

Bus Driver (Part-time)

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

... public highways and private property, including city and mountainous routes, in all weather ... Cleaning the bus after each trip. * Sanitizing passenger areas. * Cleaning and servicing onboard ...

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All JobsPublic Bus Driver JobsPublic Bus Driver Jobs in Iowa

Public Bus Driver information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do public bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for public bus driver in Iowa is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Public Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectPublic Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentUrban or suburban public transit systems, city streetsSchool zones, residential areas, school campuses
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, government-fundedSchool districts, private or public schools
Work ScheduleVaries, often includes evenings and weekendsSchool hours, typically mornings and afternoons

Public Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers both require CDL licenses with passenger endorsements and operate vehicles in passenger transport roles. However, Public Bus Drivers typically work in urban transit systems serving the general public, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students to and from school. Their work environments, schedules, and employer types differ, but both roles are essential for safe passenger transportation.

How difficult is it to become a public bus driver?

Becoming a public bus driver typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and passing a background check. Candidates often need to complete a training program that covers safety procedures, vehicle operation, and customer service skills, which can take several weeks. Some regions also require a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement.

How much do public transportation bus drivers make?

Public bus drivers typically earn a median annual wage of around $45,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and may work full-time, including evenings and weekends.

What disqualifies you from being a public bus driver?

Public bus driver applicants are typically disqualified if they have a poor driving record, including a history of traffic violations or accidents, or if they do not possess a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). Additionally, a criminal background check is usually required, and certain offenses may disqualify candidates from employment. Good communication skills and the ability to pass medical and vision exams are also essential.

What type of public bus driver makes the most money?

Experienced public bus drivers with specialized skills, such as operating articulated buses or driving in challenging environments, tend to earn higher wages. Additionally, drivers working in urban areas with higher living costs or holding certifications like commercial driver's licenses (CDL) with passenger endorsements often receive higher pay. Seniority and union membership can also influence earnings.
Public Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Bus Driver job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, and 47% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,151 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

School Bus Driver

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Iowa Central School Bus
See more jobs at Iowa Central School Busexternal

$21.75 - $27.25/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

School Bus Driver Opportunity

If you're looking for a career that will give you a strong sense of pride and purpose, this is the job for you. Getting over 1,000,000 children safely to and from school every day is one of the most important jobs you will ever have. Come work for North America Central where your skills are valued, and your contribution appreciated.

Iowa Central School Bus is now hiring School Bus Drivers in Iowa City, IA. Our drivers have flexible hours and time off during school holidays.

Tired of paying for a babysitter? At Iowa Central, you can also bring your child to work with you (children who are one year or older qualify).

As a school bus driver at Iowa Central School Bus, you are not only an essential worker, but also a HERO to children every day! We are looking for candidates who are responsible, love children, and are very reliable. No Experience Necessary - we will train you!

We are your friends, family, and neighbors - Come join our Team!

Location Info: Iowa Central School Bus

  • Iowa City School Bus Barn: 2185 S. Gilbert Street, Iowa City
  • Or call us M-F @ 319-688-1900.
  • Apply online at driveayellowbus.com

We are proud to offer:

  • Starting at $21.75 up to $27.25 per hour (based on experience)
  • Flexible Hours no Nights or Weekends required
  • Safety/ Attendance Bonus up to $515 a year

Hours:

  • Route hours guaranteed at a minimum of 4.0 hours per day when school is in session
  • Additional work hours available through field trips and charter work
  • Summer School routes available Work year-round with school & holiday breaks

Benefits:

  • 401K with Company Match
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical Insurance Available
  • Life Insurance Available

Communities Served: North Liberty, Coralville, Hills, and Iowa City

As an Iowa Central School Bus Driver, you will:

  • Safely transport passengers
  • Monitor passenger stops, ensuring the passengers' safety during the loading and unloading process
  • Maintain effective & appropriate verbal communication skills
  • Represent Iowa Central School Bus professionally in all interactions with the Iowa City Community School District and the general public

*Conditions apply - see location for details

To qualify as a School Bus Driver candidate, you must:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Possess a valid driver's license for the previous 3 years
  • Be able to pass a background check, including a Motor Vehicle Record check, drug screen & physical

Our drivers have flexible hours and time off during school holidays. Through our commitment to putting customers first, dedication to safety, and ambition to deliver the best; means that we've created a working environment that you'll love.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $21.75 up to $27.25 Per Hour

North America Central School Bus is an EEO/AA employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.

Apply