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Small Bus Driver Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

STA of Arizona

Non-CDL DRIVER

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$18.25 - $22.50/hr

In addition, a bus driver may transport clients on private charter trips. Drivers may work with ... Complete required ODE (Oregon Department of Education) small vehicle operation certification course.

Student Transportation of America

Non-CDL DRIVER

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$18.25 - $22.50/hr

In addition, a bus driver may transport clients on private charter trips. Drivers may work with ... Complete required ODE (Oregon Department of Education) small vehicle operation certification course.

Unlimited Instruction LLC

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K-12 SPED Instructional Assistant (6980)

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$26/hr

... bus driver and classroom teachers regarding student behavior; may assist students in getting ... and small group settings to enhance student achievement, please apply and a member of our ...

Unlimited Instruction LLC

Be Seen First

K-12 SPED Instructional Assistant (6980)

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$26/hr

... bus driver and classroom teachers regarding student behavior; may assist students in getting ... and small group settings to enhance student achievement, please apply and a member of our ...

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Small Bus Driver information

See Arizona salary details

$7

$18

$26

How much do small bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for small bus driver in Arizona is $18.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a small bus driver?

Small bus drivers are professional drivers responsible for operating smaller-sized buses, typically used for transporting groups such as school children, senior citizens, or shuttle passengers. Their duties include safely driving predetermined routes, picking up and dropping off passengers at designated stops, and ensuring the comfort and safety of everyone on board. They may also assist passengers with mobility needs, perform routine vehicle inspections, and maintain records of their trips. Excellent driving skills, a clean driving record, and strong customer service abilities are essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a Small Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a passenger endorsement, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, vehicle inspection checklists, and basic maintenance tools is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and customer service skills help drivers interact with passengers and handle stressful situations calmly. These competencies ensure passenger safety, reliable service, and a positive travel experience for all riders.

What are some common challenges faced by small bus drivers and how can they be managed?

Small Bus Drivers often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, handling difficult passengers, and navigating through traffic or unfamiliar routes. Effective time management and strong communication skills are essential to keep routes on track and ensure passenger safety. Building a good rapport with passengers and maintaining a calm, professional demeanor can help in diffusing tense situations. Regularly reviewing routes and staying updated on traffic conditions also contributes to smoother operations.

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

AspectSmall Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, often specific to school buses
Work EnvironmentTransporting small groups, often for private or corporate clientsTransporting students to and from school, often on fixed routes
Employer & IndustryPrivate companies, shuttle services, small organizationsSchool districts, educational institutions

Small Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers both require a CDL with passenger endorsement and work in passenger transportation. However, Small Bus Drivers typically serve private clients or organizations, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students for schools. The work environments and employers differ, but the certifications and safety standards are similar.

Do small bus drivers get paid for the entire day?

Small bus drivers are typically paid for the hours they work, which may include the entire scheduled shift if they are on duty for the full day. Overtime pay may apply if they work beyond standard hours, depending on employment agreements and local labor laws.

Is it hard to drive a small bus?

Driving a small bus as a bus driver requires good vehicle control, attention to safety, and adherence to traffic laws. It involves managing passenger safety, navigating routes, and often requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specific certification. The difficulty depends on the driver's experience and familiarity with the vehicle and routes.

What disqualifies you from being a small bus driver?

Small bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a valid driver's license without a commercial driver's license (CDL), a history of serious traffic violations or DUI, or a criminal record that includes offenses related to safety or transportation. Additionally, failing a medical exam or drug test can disqualify candidates, and they must meet age and physical fitness requirements set by licensing authorities.

What type of small bus driver makes the most money?

Experienced small bus drivers who operate specialized vehicles such as school buses, charter buses, or luxury shuttles tend to earn higher wages. Drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and additional certifications, such as passenger or hazardous materials endorsements, can also increase earning potential. Salary varies based on employer, location, and experience, but specialization and advanced licensing generally lead to higher pay.

What are popular job titles related to Small Bus Driver jobs in Arizona?

For Small Bus Driver jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Small Bus Driver jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Small Bus Driver jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Small Bus Driver jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Small Bus Driver job openings:

Small Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Bus Driver job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,392 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

On Call Bus Aide 2026-2027

Liberty Elementary School District 25

Buckeye, AZ • On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Transportation/Bus Aide
Date Posted:
6/1/2026
Location:
Transportation
Date Available:
07/28/2026
BUS AIDE
General Statement of Responsibilities
Assist in providing safe transportation of students to and from designated locations.
Qualifications & Experience
  1. High School Diploma or GED
  2. The ability to take direction and complete assigned tasks
  3. Work cooperatively with parents, community and staff
  4. Must be able to lift 70 lbs.
  5. Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find appropriate.

Responsibilities & Duties
  1. Assist individual students or small groups of students with their transportation needs
  2. Alert the bus driver to any problems or concerns about an individual student
  3. Operate and care for equipment used on or around vehicles
  4. Other duties as may be assigned.

Essential Duties
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, to use hands to handle or feel objects or controls, use tools, operate heavy machinery and use a keyboard or keypad or mouse. The employee is required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit, and is frequently required stand and walk. The employee is frequently required to drive a school bus, with and without passengers. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to fifty (50) pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than fifty pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close and far vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Working Environment
The employee regularly works indoors, outdoors, and on school bus.
The noise level in the work environment is moderate to loud.
The duties and responsibilities identified in this position description are illustrative only and are in no way intended to be a complete list of activities that may be required of an incumbent.
Language Skills
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Able to communicate effectively with staff, students, and community members.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to address problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
Terms of Employment
  • Non-Exempt Status
  • On Call/As Needed
  • 7.5 hours per day/Monday-Thursday

Compensation
Level 1 - FY26/27 Support Staff Wage Schedule
Reports To
Transportation Supervisor

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