ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

School Bus Driver Trainee Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Iowa Central School Bus

School Bus Driver

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $27.25/hr

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 ...

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 flexible hours and time off during school holidays. Tired of paying for a babysitter? At Iowa Central, you ...

Illinois 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 flexible hours and time off during school holidays. Tired of paying for a babysitter? At Iowa Central, you ...

Pella Community Schools

School Bus Driver

Pella, IA · On-site

School Bus Driver JobID: 934 * Position Type: Transportation/ School Bus Driver * Date Posted: 9/11/2024 * Location: District Wide * Date Available: TBD * Closing Date: Until Filled BUS DRIVERS The ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$23.64/hr

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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Council Bluffs, IA

$23.64/hr

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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$23.64/hr

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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA

$23 - $29/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers for Ankeny, IA 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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ames, IA

$23 - $26/hr

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 ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers for Ankeny, IA 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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ames, IA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

School Bus Driver benefits: · Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications · Hourly Rate: $23.00 - $26.00 per hour · Training Rate: $17.00 · Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Ames, IA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

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 ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

School Bus Driver benefits: · Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications · Hourly Rate: $23.00 - $29.00 per hour · Training Rate: $17.00 · Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and ...

Greene County CSD

School Bus Driver

Jefferson, IA

$45.35/hr

School Bus Driver Location: Greene County Community School District - Jefferson, Iowa Job Type: Regular Route Driving and/or Activity Driving Salary: $45.35 for Route Rates; $20.03 for Activity Rates ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSchool Bus Driver JobsSchool Bus Driver Trainee JobsSchool Bus Driver Trainee Jobs in Iowa

School Bus Driver Trainee information

What is a school bus driver trainee?

School Bus Driver Trainees are individuals who are in the process of being trained to become fully qualified school bus drivers. They typically undergo classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and must pass written and driving exams to obtain the necessary commercial driver's license (CDL) with the appropriate endorsements. Trainees learn about safety procedures, student management, vehicle inspection, and state and federal transportation regulations. The training ensures that they can safely and effectively transport students to and from school and related activities.

What can I expect during the training and onboarding process as a school bus driver trainee?

As a School Bus Driver Trainee, you will participate in a structured training program that typically includes classroom instruction on safety regulations, state and federal driving laws, and student management, as well as hands-on practice with bus operation under the supervision of certified trainers. You will also prepare for and take the required commercial driver’s license (CDL) exams, often with support and guidance from experienced staff. The training period is designed to ensure you are comfortable with all aspects of the job, from route navigation to emergency procedures, before you begin driving independently. During this time, you may also shadow current drivers to gain insight into daily routines and best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school bus driver trainee, and why are they important?

To excel as a School Bus Driver Trainee, you need a clean driving record, basic vehicle operation skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Training often involves learning to use vehicle inspection checklists, two-way radios, and preparation for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with passenger (P) and school bus (S) endorsements. Patience, strong communication, and a calm demeanor are crucial for interacting with students and managing unexpected situations. These skills and qualities ensure the safety and well-being of students while maintaining reliable and efficient transportation services.

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

AspectSchool Bus Driver TraineeSchool Bus Driver
CredentialsRequires a valid driver’s license, CDL permit, and trainingRequires a valid CDL license with passenger and school bus endorsements
Work EnvironmentTraining period, supervised driving, school campusesFull-time driving, transporting students to and from school
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, transportation companiesSchool districts, private transportation services

In summary, a School Bus Driver Trainee is in the training phase, working under supervision to gain necessary certifications and experience. A School Bus Driver has completed training, holds the required licenses, and actively transports students. The trainee role focuses on learning and development, while the driver role involves full responsibility for student safety and vehicle operation.

What does it take to become a school bus driver trainee?

To become a school bus driver trainee, candidates typically need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and must pass a background check. They often complete a training program that covers safety procedures, vehicle operation, and student management, and may need to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements.

What are the most commonly searched types of School Bus Driver jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of School Bus Driver jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for School Bus Driver Trainee jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most School Bus Driver Trainee job openings:

School Bus Driver Trainee jobs near you

School Bus Driver

Lewis Central Consolidated School District

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

$18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Lewis Central Community School District is looking for Bus Drivers for the 2026-2027 school year. A hiring bonus is available for qualified candidates. Fully licensed and trained school bus drivers start at $18.00 per hour, with additional pay for prior bus driving/CDL experience. Training is provided for applicants who are not yet fully licensed and trained school bus drivers. Driver trainees start at $16.50 per hour during training and receive a pay increase upon successful completion.
Driver trainee applicants must have a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) before they can begin training. More information is available through the Iowa DOT here: Iowa DOT Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Please see details about the position below.
Job Title: Bus Driver
Department: Operations - Transportation
Supervisor: Transportation Director
Classification: Classified - Part-Time School-Year
FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Last Updated: June 9, 2026
Summary
Operates school buses and transportation vehicles safely and efficiently to transport students to and from school, activities, and events. Ensures compliance with all federal, state of Iowa, and district transportation regulations while maintaining a safe, orderly, and respectful environment for students.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Reports to work on a regular and reliable basis.
  • Safely operates a school bus or other district vehicle on assigned routes and for extracurricular trips in accordance with all traffic laws, State of Iowa school transportation rules, and district policies.
  • Conducts required pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the bus to ensure safe operating condition and reports mechanical concerns promptly.
  • Maintains order and discipline among students while on the bus; on routes without a bus monitor, assumes primary responsibility for student management and behavior.
  • Collaborates with assigned bus monitors (when applicable) to ensure a safe, orderly, and respectful environment for all students.
  • Communicates student behavior concerns to appropriate school staff in accordance with district procedures.
  • Follows assigned routes and schedules while adjusting as necessary for weather, road, or operational conditions.
  • Ensures student safety during loading and unloading, including proper use of stop arms, crossing procedures, and hazard lights.
  • Maintains accurate records including student counts, mileage, inspections, and incident reports as required.
  • Complies with all requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Iowa Department of Education, and Iowa Department of Transportation for school bus drivers.
  • Participates in required training, including but not limited to driver in-service, safety training, and emergency procedures.
  • Performs emergency evacuation drills as required by state guidelines.
  • Maintains cleanliness and basic upkeep of the assigned vehicle.
  • Communicates effectively with students, parents, school staff, and transportation personnel.
  • Follows the district's Drug and Alcohol Testing Program, including pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing.
  • Reports accidents, incidents, or unsafe conditions immediately and follows proper procedures.
  • May assist with transporting students with special needs and operate specialized equipment when trained.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
Education and/or Experience
A combination of relevant education and experience may be considered.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Must possess or obtain:
    • Valid Iowa Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class B or higher
    • Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements
    • Iowa School Bus Driver Authorization issued by the Iowa Department of Education
    • Valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate
    • Successful completion of state-required pre-service training
  • Must meet all state and federal background check requirements.
The district will provide paid training to assist in obtaining these necessary qualifications.
Full job description available by emailing humanresources@lewiscentral.org
Hours/Schedule:
  • The position is guaranteed 5 hours of pay per day 2.5 for each shift (a.m. & p.m.).
  • This position is expected to work all days students are in session and require transportation to and from school (approximately 177 student days).
  • Occasional transportation meetings, trainings, or requirements outside of regular hours may be necessary and will be paid unless noted otherwise.
Rate of pay:
  • The hourly rate of pay starts at $18.00 for a Bus Driver who has a valid CDL with Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsements and a school bus authorization through the Department of Education (DOE).
  • Additional compensation opportunities:
    • $0.10-$0.20 more per hour for prior driving experience (up to 5 years max)
  • The hourly rate of pay starts at $16.50 for a Bus Driver Trainee who does not have a CDL with Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsements and a school bus authorization through the Department of Education (DOE).
  • Additional compensation opportunities:
    • $0.10-$0.20 more per hour for prior driving experience (up to 5 years max)
Final starting rate will be determined by the Business Office/HR after submitting your application and current qualifications.
Benefits:
  • Since this is a part-time, school-year position, it is not eligible for health or dental benefits.
  • Life insurance benefit of $20,000 at no cost to you.
  • Enrollment in IPERS (Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System) starting on your first day:
    • District contributes 9.44% of your wages.
    • You contribute 6.29% of your wages.
Paid Leave:
  • 2 paid personal days each school year (prorated based on start date).
  • Paid sick leave based on years of service (10 days in your first year, prorated based on start date).
  • This position is not eligible for paid vacation leave.
Paid Holidays:
  • Labor Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day
  • New Year's Day
  • Memorial Day

Apply