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School Bus Driver Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: * Perform all duties associated with training to be a school bus driver, including but not limited ...

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: * Perform all duties associated with training to be a school bus driver, including but not limited ...

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

Oakley Elementary School Date Available: 08/24/2026 Closing Date: 07/16/2026 Hours per Day : varies ... High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: * Perform all duties associated with training to be a school bus driver, including but not limited ...

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: * Perform all duties associated with training to be a school bus driver, including but not limited ...

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: * Perform all duties associated with training to be a school bus driver, including but not limited ...

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

Johnston Elementary School (High-Needs School) Date Available: 07/20/2026 Closing Date: 07/18/2026 ... High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

Fairview, NC · On-site

$15/hr

Fairview Elementary School Date Available: 08/24/2026 Closing Date: 06/30/2026 Hours per Day ... High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

TC Roberson High School Date Available: 07/20/2026 Closing Date: 07/08/2026 Hours per Day : varies ... High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Buncombe County Schools

Bus Driver Trainee

NC · On-site

$15/hr

Enka High School Date Available: 07/20/2026 Closing Date: 07/18/2026 Hours per Day : varies, 2-4 ... High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired Bus Driver Trainee ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

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How much do school bus driver trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for school bus driver trainee in the United States is $49,953.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $58,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are School Bus Driver Trainees?

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.

Is it difficult to become a school bus driver?

Becoming a school bus driver trainee involves obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, passing background checks, and completing training on safety and driving procedures. The process can vary in difficulty depending on the individual's driving record and ability to meet licensing requirements, but it generally requires a commitment to training and safety standards.

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.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers typically earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000 depending on experience, location, and hours worked. In some areas, additional certifications or training may influence pay rates.

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 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 cities are hiring for School Bus Driver Trainee jobs? Cities with the most School Bus Driver Trainee 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 School Bus Driver Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for School Bus Driver Trainee jobs include:
School Bus Driver Trainee jobs near you
Bus Driver Trainee

Bus Driver Trainee

Buncombe County Schools

Asheville, NC • On-site

$15/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Buncombe County Schools rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

349th of 559 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

Hours per Day:  varies
Months of Employment:  10
Position Type:  Continuing
Level of Benefits: None. Benefits will be available upon completion of bus driver certification. Partial benefits if the position is 4+ hours or Full benefits if the position is 6+ hours
Trainee Pay Range: $15 per hour
Bus Driver Pay Range: $19.56 - $25.08 (Salary range includes the 10.77 percent local supplement and is based on state service) 
Minimum Degree Level:  High School Diploma or Equivalent is desired





Job Description: Bus Driver Trainee
ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  1. Perform all duties associated with training to be a school bus driver, including but not limited to:
    • Successfully complete classroom and testing requirements to obtain NC DMV CDL Class B learner's permit with P & S endorsements within 1st 60 days of employment.
    • Successfully complete behind the wheel training required to obtain NC CDL Class B license with P and S endorsements.
    • Successfully obtain Class B CDL with P & S endorsements within 1st 90 days of employment.
    • Successfully passing the DOT physical
  2. Assist bus driver in making decisions pertaining to the bus and the safety of passengers
  3. Assist bus driver in assigning seats to students on the bus and preparing seating charts.
  4. Assist bus driver in documenting all discipline problems and turning them into the Principal and/or Assistant Principal at assigned schools.
  5. Assist bus driver in conducting pre/post-trip inspections
  6. Assist bus driver in cleaning bus daily.
  7. Learn bus routes of all buses assigned to the school.
  8. Assist with safe loading and unloading of passengers
  9. Assist driver with outside clearance when backing the bus.
  10. Keeps students seated during bus route.
  11. Ensure aisles are free of objects.
  12. Assist with passenger safety during all aspects of bus transportation.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  1. Must be eligible to obtain a School Bus Certification (driving record)
  2. Employee will be moved to a School Bus Driver position within the BCS system once properly licensed.


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