ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

School Bus Driver 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

$22.95/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

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$22.95/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

$21 - $27/hr

School Bus Driver benefits: · Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications · Hourly Rate: $21.00 - $27.00 per hour · Training Rate: $13.00 · Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and ...

First Student

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA

$21 - $27/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, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$21 - $27/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

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

School Bus Driver benefits: * Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications * Hourly Rate : $23.64 per hour * Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) ...

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

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

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 ...

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 Jobs in Iowa

School Bus Driver information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do school bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for school 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school bus driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a School Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety procedures. Familiarity with vehicle inspection protocols, GPS navigation systems, and sometimes first aid certification are typically required. Patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe and reliable transportation of students while fostering a positive and secure environment on the bus.

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

School bus drivers typically earn a moderate income that may not be sufficient as the sole source of income, especially in areas with lower pay rates. Many drivers supplement their earnings with additional work or benefits such as overtime, route bonuses, or school district benefits. The job often requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) and adherence to safety regulations, with schedules aligned to school hours.

Is it worth becoming a school bus driver?

School bus drivers transport students safely on daily routes and typically require a commercial driver's license with passenger endorsement. The job offers part-time hours, a stable schedule during school days, and benefits in some districts, making it a viable option for those seeking flexible employment in transportation. Compensation varies by location and experience but generally provides steady income with opportunities for additional hours or overtime.

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

AspectSchool Bus DriverCharter Bus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsementsCDL with passenger endorsement, sometimes additional certifications
Work EnvironmentSchool campuses, residential areas, school routesLong-distance trips, tours, events
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, educational institutionsPrivate companies, travel agencies

Both roles require a CDL with passenger endorsements and involve driving buses. School Bus Drivers typically operate on fixed routes for students within school districts, while Charter Bus Drivers handle longer trips for groups or events. The main differences lie in work environment and trip types, but both serve transportation needs within the industry.

What does a school bus driver do?

School bus drivers are typically employees of a school district or driving companies that contract with school districts. The primary job duty of a school bus driver is to transport students to and from schools. Most school districts have a dedicated route and stops for school bus drivers. School bus drivers also occasionally provide transportation during the school day for field trips. School bus drivers are responsible for the well-being of the students while they are in transit to and from school. They pay close attention to road safety, driving conditions, and the condition of their vehicle. They also need to control student behavior on the bus and may need to discipline students. School bus drivers will develop a rapport with the students in their care over time.

What is a school bus driver?

School bus drivers are professional drivers responsible for safely transporting students to and from school and related activities. They operate school buses along designated routes, ensure the safety and well-being of students during transit, and follow all traffic laws and school district policies. School bus drivers also conduct regular inspections of their vehicles and maintain proper records. Their role often includes assisting students with getting on and off the bus and managing student behavior to ensure a safe environment.

What are some common challenges school bus drivers face and how can they be managed?

School bus drivers often encounter challenges such as managing student behavior, ensuring on-time arrivals despite traffic or weather, and maintaining safety protocols. Effective communication and strong classroom management techniques are essential for addressing student conduct. Familiarity with routes, ongoing safety training, and collaboration with school staff help drivers handle logistical and safety issues smoothly. Building positive relationships with students and parents also contributes to a supportive and respectful bus environment.
More about School Bus Driver jobs
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 are popular job titles related to School Bus Driver jobs in Iowa? For School Bus Driver jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching School Bus Driver jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for School Bus Driver jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for School Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most School Bus Driver job openings:
What are popular job titles related to School Bus Driver jobs in IA? For School Bus Driver jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
School Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various School Bus Driver job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. 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 Central School Bus

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$21.75 - $27.25/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 hours 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