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School Bus Driver Sign Bonus Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000*As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2000.00* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students ...

CDL Bus Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23.84/hr

... Sign-On Bonus: $2,000 Seeking professional, safety-focused CDL Bus Operators to join our growing ... High school diploma or equivalent Note: This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2000.00*As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

School Bus Driver

Lockport, IL · On-site

$25.75/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

School Bus Driver

Lockport, IL · On-site

$25.75/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

School Bus Driver

Aurora, IL · On-site

$25.50/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000.00* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2000.00 As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2000.00* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students ...

School Bus Driver

Crestwood, IL · On-site

$25.75/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2000.00As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000.00* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2000.00 As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2000.00* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students ...

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers Sign-On Bonus: $2,000* As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days ...

Showing results 21-40

School Bus Driver Sign Bonus information

See salary details

$9

$21

$30

How much do school bus driver sign bonus jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for school bus driver sign bonus 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 a school bus driver sign bonus?

A School Bus Driver Sign Bonus is a financial incentive offered to new school bus drivers when they are hired by a school district or transportation company. This bonus is typically paid out in addition to the driver's regular wages and is meant to attract more applicants to the position, especially when there is a shortage of qualified drivers. The amount and structure of the sign-on bonus can vary, with some employers offering it in lump sums or installments after certain employment milestones are met. Eligibility for the bonus may require meeting specific criteria, such as completing training, passing background checks, or remaining employed for a set period.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school bus driver?

To thrive as a School Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with vehicle inspection checklists, two-way radios, and GPS navigation systems is commonly required. Strong soft skills include patience, reliability, and excellent communication for interacting with students, parents, and school staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring student safety, punctuality, and maintaining a positive and orderly transportation environment.

What are some common challenges school bus drivers face, and how can they prepare for them?

School bus drivers often encounter challenges such as managing student behavior, navigating traffic during peak hours, and adhering to strict schedules regardless of weather or road conditions. To prepare, drivers benefit from strong communication skills, patience, and proactive classroom management techniques. Many school districts provide comprehensive training on safety protocols and student management, and new drivers are encouraged to connect with experienced colleagues for practical tips and ongoing support.

Can you make a living off of being a school bus driver?

School bus drivers can make a living depending on factors such as location, experience, and hours worked. Typically, they earn a moderate income that may require working full-time or additional routes to achieve a full-time salary. Benefits like overtime pay, certifications, and union membership can also impact overall earnings.

Do school bus drivers get paid 40 hours a week?

School bus drivers are often paid hourly and may work full-time or part-time schedules, with many earning around 40 hours per week depending on routes and district needs. Some drivers work additional hours for training, after-school activities, or summer routes, but pay can vary by employer and location.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and school district policies. In some areas, sign-on bonuses or additional pay for early morning or late routes are offered. The job requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) and safety training.
More about School Bus Driver Sign Bonus jobs
Infographic showing various School Bus Driver Sign Bonus job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,812 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

School Bus Driver

First Student, Inc.

Willow Springs, IL • On-site

$26.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


First Student rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

First Student

Based on 319 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.2

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.2 out of 10

Education support services average

Based on 2,879 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at First Student

  • 89%

    89% of students say it’s good

    of students say it’s good

  • 88%

    88% say they enjoy their job

    say they enjoy their job

  • 87%

    87% of parents and care-givers say it’s good

    of parents and care-givers say it’s good

Featured by First Student, based on 319 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers
Sign-On Bonus: $2,000*
As a Part Time School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely back home in the afternoon. Additional hours for field trips and special event transportation may be available.
No experience is necessary to become a school bus driver! We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver.
School Bus Driver benefits:
  • Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications.
  • Hourly Rate: $26.50 per hour.
  • Training Hourly Rate: $17.00 per hour.
  • Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training provided!
  • Commercial Learner's Permit Bonus- $750 CLP Bonus if obtained within 7 days; $250 CLP Bonus if obtained within 14 days
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance or coverage options.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match.
  • Part-time, flexible schedule: Split shifts (AM/PM routes), weekdays only; No nights, weekends, holidays, or summers required.
  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations across the U.S. & Canada!
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.
  • Community Impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families.
  • Employee Discount Program: Discounts on various products and services.
  • Guaranteed Minimum Hours

Join First Student and get more than a paycheck. We offer perks and incentives designed to support you on and off the job, from early wage access and loyalty rewards to employee discounts, recognition programs, growth opportunities, and appreciation events. If you're ready to be part of a team that Fosters Teamwork and makes a real difference every day, First Student is the place to be.
Your day as a School Bus Driver will include:
  • Safely transport students to and from school and activities.
  • Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids.
  • Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes, lights, tires, emergency exits).
  • Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the bus clean and sanitary.
  • Obey all traffic laws and company safety standards.
  • Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.
  • Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

School Bus Driver Jobs are Perfect For:
  • Retirees looking for supplemental income.
  • Stay-at-home parents seeking daytime work.
  • Veterans transitioning into civilian roles.
  • Anyone seeking a second career or flexible job.
  • People who enjoy working with children.

You might be a good fit as a School Bus Driver if you:
  • Are at least 21 years old.
  • Have a valid driver's license for at least 3 years.
  • Are looking for a part-time schedule and summers off.
  • Enjoy working with students.

Note: This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.
Great School Bus Drivers often bring skills such as:
  • Valid Class B License.
  • History driving with ride share companies or taxi services.
  • Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate.

Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First Student! Make an impact in your community while enjoying flexible schedules, great pay, and unmatched support.
*Sign-on bonus conditions apply. See location for details. Bonus offer is effective 12.31.2026
***Commercial Learner's Permit Bonus conditions apply. See location for details. Bonus offer is effective 10.31.2026.
Language Requirement
This role requires English proficiency. Federal, state, and local requirements, including U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, require training, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications be conducted in English.
First for a reason:
At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more than 5 million students and passengers to and from their destinations each day! Our family of brands include Transco, Total Transportation, Maggies Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation; they create and implement the most advanced training and technology the transportation industry has to offer.
In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are considered safety-sensitive and are therefore subject to drug and alcohol testing, including cannabis.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. First is also committed to providing a drug-free workplace. First will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, and any other fair chance law. Philadelphia's Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance Poster is at this link or upon request https://www.phila.gov/media/20210423160847/Fair-Chance-Hiring-law-poster.pdf.

Working at First Student

Perks for frontline workers

From First Student, via Breakroom

  • Competitive pay and paid training

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and paid time off

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage options

  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match

  • Career advancement opportunities, including operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), including counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues

  • Community impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families

About First Student, in their own words

From First Student

At First Student, we are a team of 66,800 employees dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and efficient student transportation. As the leading student transportation provider in North America, we operate over 530+ locations across the U.S. and Canada. Our family of brands includes Transco, Total Transportation, Maggie’s Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation, helping create and implement the advanced training, technology, and transportation solutions our industry has to offer. Our company’s history is rooted in industry innovation, operational excellence, and a shared commitment to putting students first.

Company values

From First Student

• Focus on safety: Safety is at the heart of everything we do

• Foster teamwork: Work together, act with integrity, respect each other, and champion diversity and inclusion

• Care for our students: Ensure our vehicles are welcoming and trusted places where students feel comfortable and secure

• Surpass customer expectations: Go the extra mile to deliver an extraordinary experience for our customers and communities

• Set the highest standards: Continually seek a better way to do things with innovation, sustainable practices, financial discipline, commercial excellence, and operational excellence


What First Student employees say

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