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School Bus Helper Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

School bus (S) endorsement preferred * Age requirement: 21-80 years of age * Any CDL driver above ... Be aware of which students need help or are misbehaving * Complete training required by LifeWise ...

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School Bus Helper information

What is a school bus helper?

School bus helpers, also known as bus aides or bus monitors, assist the bus driver in ensuring the safety and well-being of students while they are being transported to and from school. Their responsibilities typically include helping students get on and off the bus, ensuring that seat belts are fastened, managing student behavior during the ride, and providing assistance to students with special needs. School bus helpers play a crucial role in maintaining a safe and orderly environment, allowing drivers to focus on operating the vehicle safely.

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

To thrive as a School Bus Helper, you need a basic understanding of child supervision, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with two-way radios, emergency evacuation procedures, and sometimes first aid certification is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for managing young passengers. These skills ensure the safety, comfort, and orderly conduct of students during transit, supporting a smooth and secure transportation experience.

What are the main challenges school bus helpers face when ensuring student safety during transportation?

School Bus Helpers often encounter challenges such as managing the behavior of students, especially younger children, and ensuring everyone remains seated and follows safety rules during the ride. They must also be prepared to assist students with special needs or mobility issues, which requires patience and attentiveness. Collaboration with the bus driver is essential to respond quickly to any emergencies or unexpected situations that may arise on the road.

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

AspectSchool Bus HelperSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsNone or minimal, often a background checkCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements
Work EnvironmentAssist with loading/unloading students, inside and outside the busOperate the bus, ensure student safety, follow traffic laws
Employer & Industry UsageSchool districts, transportation companiesSchool districts, transportation companies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles assisting studentsCompared for driving responsibilities and licensing requirements

In summary, a School Bus Helper primarily assists with student loading, unloading, and safety inside and around the bus, often without requiring a CDL. In contrast, a School Bus Driver is responsible for operating the bus, requiring a CDL with specific endorsements. Both roles are essential in school transportation but differ mainly in responsibilities and certification requirements.

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

The most popular types of School Bus jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to School Bus Helper jobs in Washington?

For School Bus Helper jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for School Bus Helper jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most School Bus Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various School Bus Helper job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

$23.32 - $45.87/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Prince George's County Public Schools (Maryland) rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 631 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Position Type:
Transportation and Central Garage/Bus Drivers
Date Posted:
7/8/2025
Location:
Various Locations
Closing Date:
10/02/2026
Hourly Range: $23.32- $45.87
This is a ACE/AFSCME, Local 2250 Position - Pay Table 500 - Grade 4.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Employee will operate a school bus safely in transporting pupils and authorized personnel to and from schools. Employees in this class are responsible for following an assigned route and schedule in the safe operation of a school bus. General supervision and training is received from the Lot Foreman, Assistant Lot Foreman, and/or Driver Trainer.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
  • Operates a school bus over an assigned route in transporting children to and from schools and on other authorized school trips;
  • Maintains order among students aboard school bus and reports cases of misbehavior to school and staff officials through proper procedures;
  • Inspects bus and checks gas, oil, water and all lights, brakes, and safety equipment before driving;
  • Prepares reports of accidents and incidents, which occur, on the bus;
  • Attends safety meetings and other meetings as necessary;
  • Prepares manifest reports as requested;
  • May transport students on field trips and outings;
  • Keeps bus clean - both inside and outside;
  • Keeps an up-to-date route sheet on the bus at all times;
  • Keeps required handbooks on the bus at all times; and
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
  • Good knowledge of the operation of automobiles and buses;
  • Good knowledge of the local streets and road system;
  • Good knowledge of State regulations and laws pertaining to the operation of school buses;
  • Good knowledge of Motor Vehicle Laws and Regulations of the State Board of Education, some knowledge of first aid;
  • Ability to deal patiently and effectively with students;
  • Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions,
  • Ability to deal courteously and effectively with school principals and parents;
  • Interest in and liking for children;
  • Ability to maintain effective control over groups of children;
  • Ability to work in tandem with other school system employees; and
  • Must be in good physical condition.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
  • Eligible candidates may not have more than three (3) points on their driving record in the last ten years.
  • Possession of a valid Commercial Drivers License(CDL), Class A or B with passenger (P) and school bus (S)endorsements; and the ability to meet special training and qualifications as set forth by Prince George's County Public Schools;
  • The Maryland State Department of Education requires that anyone operating a school bus in transporting pupils have at least three (3) years driving experience and have attained the minimum age of twenty-one (21) years.

CERTIFICATION REQUIRMENTS:
Possession of a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class A or B with passenger (P) and school bus (S) endorsements; and the ability to meet special training and qualifications as set forth by Prince George's County Public Schools.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
No direct supervisory responsibilities.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Bus Drivers
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment characteristics are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Direct Deposit is expected as a condition of new hire employment.
As a condition of employment, all applicants for employment must be qualified to work in the United States without sponsorship by PGCPS. If you are not work-authorized and would require PGCPS to sponsor you for a work visa you will not be considered for employment.
For technical questions regarding the Applicant Tracking system, please contact the Applicant Tracking help desk using the Request Technical Help link: https://talent-help.frontlineeducation.com/hc/en-us
If you have questions regarding the position, please contact the Human Resources Talent Acquisition and Management Education Support Professionals Office at tam.transportation@pgcps.org or 301-627-7287.

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