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Senior Bus Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The role Under the supervision of the Senior Transportation Manager, School Bus Driver is a journey level driver who drives a school bus over designated routes for the purpose of transporting ...

Part Time Bus Driver

Redding, CA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Provincial Senior Living proudly manages lifestyle-driven Independent Living communities across the ... Employee Assistance Program Our community is looking for a Driver to join our team.

Community Bus Driver (Part-time)

Clovis, CA · On-site

$21.31 - $21.95/hr

The Community Driver at Carmel Village transports residents to/from off-site activities such as ... Generations is a family-first, family-owned, and family-operated business serving senior living ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Bus Driver information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$79.2K

$161.4K

How much do senior bus driver jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior bus driver in California is $79,236.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior bus driver?

Senior Bus Drivers are experienced professionals responsible for operating buses safely along designated routes, usually for public transportation or private companies. In addition to driving, they may supervise other drivers, assist with training, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. They are often expected to handle more complex routes, manage passenger concerns, and perform routine vehicle inspections. Their role requires a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), excellent driving records, and strong communication skills.

How does a senior bus driver support and mentor less experienced drivers?

Senior Bus Drivers often play a key role in guiding and supporting junior drivers by sharing best practices, assisting with route familiarization, and providing advice on handling challenging situations such as difficult passengers or adverse weather. They may also be asked to conduct ride-alongs or provide feedback to management on training needs. This mentorship not only helps maintain high safety and service standards but also fosters a collaborative and supportive team environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior bus driver?

To thrive as a Senior Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and extensive experience operating large vehicles safely. Familiarity with route management systems, vehicle inspection protocols, and on-board safety equipment is typically required. Excellent customer service, patience, and strong situational awareness help drivers handle passenger needs and respond effectively to unexpected situations. These skills ensure passenger safety, reliable service, and a positive public transportation experience.

What is the difference between Senior Bus Driver vs Bus Driver?

AspectSenior Bus DriverBus Driver
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), possibly additional endorsementsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentLonger routes, more responsibility, mentoring rolesDaily passenger transport, routine routes
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, private transportation companiesPublic transit agencies, schools, private companies

Senior Bus Drivers typically have more experience, handle longer or more complex routes, and may mentor newer drivers. They share similar certifications and work environments with Bus Drivers but carry additional responsibilities. The main difference lies in experience level and scope of duties, making Senior Bus Drivers more experienced professionals within the same industry.

What disqualifies you from being a senior bus driver?

Disqualifications for a senior bus driver typically include a poor driving record, such as multiple traffic violations or accidents, a criminal background check revealing serious offenses, and failing to meet licensing requirements like a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsements. Additionally, health issues that impair driving ability or failing drug and alcohol tests can disqualify candidates. A clean background, good driving history, and proper certifications are essential for qualification.

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

The most popular types of Bus Driver jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Bus Driver jobs in California?

For Senior Bus Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Bus Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Bus Driver jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Senior Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Senior Bus Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Bus Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,236 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

School Bus Driver - Sub Pool

The Wonderful Company

Delano, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago


The Wonderful Company rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

288th of 445 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

School Bus Driver - Sub Pool

Wonderful College Prep Academy (WCPA) is a free, public charter network in California's Central Valley committed to providing a world-class education for all students. Founded in 2009 by Lynda and Stewart Resnick, co-owners of The Wonderful Company, WCPA offers two free state-of-the-art TK12 public charter schools serving 2,400 students in Lost Hills and Delano, California.

Our mission is to provide a world-class education by fostering a nurturing, engaging, community-centered school environment where students develop a strong and well-rounded academic foundation, preparing them to become critical thinkers and lifelong learners.

At WCPA, students have access to innovative learning experiences and technology, rooted in health and wellness. Signature programs and offerings include:

  • On-site student wellness centers to support everyday health
  • Over 30 sports teams to encourage physical activity
  • Learning farms and teaching kitchens where students develop healthy habits
  • Harvest Hall, a modern dining hall offering healthy, scratch-made food daily
  • Wonderful Career Pathways, a free program where students can earn up to 60 college credits and an associate degree while in high school
  • And much more!

Recognized for its leadership, innovation, and commitment to equity, Wonderful College Prep Academy was named School of the Year under the Hart Vision Equity & Innovation Award in 2026 by the California Charter Schools Association. This honor reflects WCPA's dedication to providing a world-class education while shaping and inspiring the next generation of leaders throughout the Central Valley and beyond. In addition, WCPA's Delano and Lost Hills campuses have been recognized among America's Healthiest Schools for the past two years by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation for their exceptional commitment to student and staff well-being and the advancement of physical, mental, and social-emotional health.

We seek thoughtful, inclusive, and skilled communicators who value continuous learning and are excited to serve our students and families. Now is the time to join a team committed to paradigm-shifting work to ensure long-term success within California's Central Valley and beyond. Wonderful College Prep Academy has a unique partnership with The Wonderful Company. Visit csr.wonderful.com to learn more about The Wonderful Company's global philanthropic work.

Job Description

The role Under the supervision of the Senior Transportation Manager, School Bus Driver is a journey level driver who drives a school bus over designated routes for the purpose of transporting students to and from school and on special trips. Work is performed under the supervision of the Supervisor of Transportation. This position requires the performance of manual and routine tasks, which are governed by well-established or well-known procedures and regulations. Will exercise independent judgment when applying specific instructions and established methods to well-defined situations, particularly in human relations challenges where there is a requirement to exercise tact, patience and firmness to maintain order and safety of students both on the bus and at bus stops, and to interact with parents and the public. May or may not be required to transport students with special learning needs, physical and/or mental challenges. A School Bus Driver II is a journey level position driver at Wonderful College Prep Academy and is eligible for all trip assignments including out of town and local trips. A School Bus Driver II has immediate access to assistance from the Supervisor or other qualified staff through two-way radio for emergency or unusual situations.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Drives a school bus daily over designated routes in accordance with time schedules, picking up and discharging students.
  • Escorts students across streets and roadways when necessary, stopping traffic as needed.
  • Transports students and teachers on field trips to various locations making departure and arrival times as scheduled.
  • Inspects bus prior to operation for safety purposes. Cleans windshields and headlights. Cleans interior and exterior of buses as needed, including, but not limited to, picking up debris, sweeping and mopping floor, and wiping and cleaning upholstery. Services bus with fuel and oil.
  • Maintains appropriate behavior among students on bus and while the bus is parked at bus stops. Follows District policies regarding student control and contact with parents and the public.
  • Reports problems or equipment malfunctions. Reports incidents which affect the safety of students.
  • Performs first aid or emergency assistance. Maintains records of all trips. Files accident reports.
  • Attends scheduled safety meetings and safety programs.
  • Operates wheelchair ramp and lift. Safely and properly secures wheelchairs inside the bus.
  • Completes accurate records as required by State and District laws and policies.
  • Required to works onsite as campus supervision for school during non-transporting hours.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • High School diploma
  • Requires: valid California Class "B" Driver's License with "P" endorsement and "S" endorsement and air brake endorsement
  • Valid California Special School Bus Driver Certificate
  • Valid American Red Cross First Aid
  • AED Certificate
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a valid D.O.T bus driver's Medical Certificate.
  • Ability to read and write sufficiently to perform all the duties of the position including understanding applicable laws, regulations and codes required.
  • Successful completion of 20 hours of classroom instruction related to skills and safety requirements for driving a school bus and successful completion of 20 hours of instruction behind the wheel of a school bus required

Skills, Knowledge:

  • Requires a thorough knowledge and understanding of safe bus driving practices.
  • Requires a thorough understanding of bus operation and safety sufficient to recognize problems and take appropriate action.
  • Must have a thorough understanding of State laws, rules and regulations and Education Code sections pertaining to school bus operations and pupil transportation.
  • Must know and understand how to apply first aid practices.
  • Requires effective communication skills.
  • Requires the ability to perform all the duties of the position with minimal supervision.
  • Must be able to drive a school bus safely and efficiently while keeping to well established schedules.
  • Requires the ability to maintain order among students, both while driving and at bus stops.
  • Must be able to recognize malfunctions in equipment and take appropriate action.
  • Requires the ability to maintain the assigned vehicle in clean and safe operating condition.
  • Must administer first aid to ill or injured students.
  • Must learn designated bus route, including stops and traffic hazards.
  • Must be able to perform routine, repetitive tasks on a continuous basis and to sit for prolonged periods of time. Requires the ability to maintain required records.
  • Requires the ability to communicate effectively with peers, students, parents, and members of the public.
  • Requires arm-hand and leg-foot dexterity to drive bus.
  • Requires visual acuity including depth perception.
  • Requires the ability to sit for extended periods of time.
  • Requires hearing sufficient to be aware of traffic and road distractions/conditions and listen to children.
  • Flexible, varying schedules, early morning shifts.
  • Friendly, willing to greet students each morning with a smile and a pleasant attitude to make them feel comfortable and prepare them to learn when they get to the classroom.
  • Dependable, willing to be on the job every day possible creating a consistent, safe, and reliable means of transportation for all students.

Pay Range: $30.00/Hour.

Work Schedule:

  • Monday-Thursday: Morning: 5:00 am -10:00 am. Afternoon: 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Friday: Morning: 5:00 am - 10:00 am. Afternoon: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm
Additional Information

Framed by the Sierra Nevada to the east and the Coast Ranges to the west, California's Central Valley is one of the world's most productive agricultural regions and the base of The Wonderful Company's agricultural operations. This vast area enjoys a moderate climate and offers residents a high quality of life, low cost of living, and a host of diverse cultural and recreational activities. From wine tasting and hiking to rafting, fishing, skiing, and surfing -- all within a two-hour drive -- the family-friendly Central Valley has much to offer.

Wonderful College Prep


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