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School Bus Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/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

Riverside, CA · On-site

$30 - $36.50/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

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/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

Mission Viejo, CA

$29.74 - $36.61/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

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/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 ...

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School Bus Driver information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$21

$31

How much do school bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for school bus driver in Riverside, CA is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying bus driver?

School bus drivers' salaries vary by location and experience, but those who work for private companies, operate specialized routes, or hold commercial driver’s licenses with additional endorsements tend to earn higher wages. In some regions, experienced drivers with advanced certifications can earn over $50,000 annually. Factors such as overtime, route complexity, and union membership can also influence pay levels.

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.

Do bus drivers work 40 hours a week?

School bus drivers typically work around 20 to 30 hours per week, including morning and afternoon routes, but some may work additional hours for training, field trips, or substitute driving. Their schedules can vary based on school district needs and whether they work full-time or part-time. Overtime is possible but not guaranteed, and shifts often include early mornings and afternoons.

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.

How much do school bus drivers make?

School bus drivers in Tennessee typically earn an average hourly wage of around $14 to $17, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $35,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the school district, and drivers often need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements.

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 are school bus drivers?

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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of School Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to School Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA? For School Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching School Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for School Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for School Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most School Bus Driver job openings:
School Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various School Bus Driver job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Full Time, 88% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,707 per year, or $22 per hour.
School Bus Driver

School Bus Driver

First Student, Inc.

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$29.74 - $36.61/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

First Student rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 303 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 rated education support services

Job description

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers - Santa Ana, CA:
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: $29.74 - $36.61 per hour
  • Training Hourly Rate: $18.00 per hour
  • Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training provided!
  • 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.
  • Guaranteed Minimum Hours: Get paid for 6 hours per day at minimum.
  • 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.
  • Child Ride-Along Program: Perfect for working parents.

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.
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.

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