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Small Bus Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Valparaiso Family YMCA

BUS DRIVER

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$20/hr

The Bus Driver supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community ... Builds relationships to create small communities. Empathetically listens and communicates for ...

Valparaiso Family YMCA

BUS DRIVER

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$20/hr

The Bus Driver supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community ... Builds relationships to create small communities. Empathetically listens and communicates for ...

Valparaiso YMCA

BUS DRIVER

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$20/hr

The Bus Driver supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community ... Builds relationships to create small communities. Empathetically listens and communicates for ...

Valparaiso YMCA

BUS DRIVER

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$20/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Bus Driver supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to ... Builds relationships to create small communities. Empathetically listens and communicates for ...

Pupstars Pet Care LLC

Be Seen First

Shuttle Driver and Pet Care Tech

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Bus Driver: Including meeting the skills and competencies needed to work with dogs under state and ... PupStars (dog daycare) has three words for you, small business, work ethic & integrity. There're a ...

Pupstars Pet Care LLC

Be Seen First

Shuttle Driver and Pet Care Tech

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Bus Driver: Including meeting the skills and competencies needed to work with dogs under state and ... PupStars (dog daycare) has three words for you, small business, work ethic & integrity. There're a ...

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All JobsSmall Bus Driver JobsSmall Bus Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL

Small Bus Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$8

$20

$29

How much do small bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for small bus driver in Chicago, IL is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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 often involves managing passenger safety, navigating various routes, and sometimes obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) with specific endorsements. The difficulty depends on the driver's experience and comfort with driving larger vehicles, but proper training and practice help develop the necessary skills.

What disqualifies you from being a small bus driver?

Small bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a valid driver's license with a poor driving record, such as multiple traffic violations or DUIs. Additionally, they must pass background checks, drug tests, and health screenings, and may be disqualified if they have certain criminal convictions or fail to meet age or physical requirements. A clean driving history and proper certifications are essential for qualification.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Small Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL? For Small Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Small Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Small Bus Driver jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Small Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Bus Driver job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,440 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

BUS DRIVER

Valparaiso Family YMCA

Valparaiso, IN • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Bus Driver supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This part-time position supports the Childcare team by ensuring the health and safety of children while driving our YMCA school bus. This role will also positively engage with members and families to enhance their experience and the children's growth at our facility while maintaining children's safety during times of transport.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.
BENEFITS:
  • Free Y membership
  • Discounted family membership
  • Child Watch hours available free of charge

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Assist children to, on, and off the vehicle.
• Maintain order and discipline with the children.
• Adhere to driving schedule.
• Immediately report vehicle and discipline concerns to supervisor.
• Refuel and maintain vehicle in accordance with guidelines.
• Maintain vehicle log.
• Adhere to work schedule and substitute for other staff as needed.
• Follow emergency procedures and safety precautions. Follow procedures for reporting all accidents, incidents and hazards.
• Adhere to all policies, rules, and regulations as outlined in employee handbook and other communications. Obtain and maintain
required training(s).
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations. Obtain and maintain required training(s).
• Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Minimum age 21 required.
At minimum 2 years of driving experience
Clean driving record required.
Completion of YMCA driver's training required.
SALARY:
Minimum starting rate of $20 an hour
Starting rate based on experience
SCHEDULE:
Part-time
M-F 8a-9a & 3p-4p
Time off follows the Valpo School Corp schedule
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS
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 disability to perform the essential functions.
  • Extended periods of sitting.
  • Able to remain alert while driving in normal and extreme environments.
  • Able to hear noises and distinguish vocal signals, often in a loud environment.
  • Outside building travel required.
  • Physical ability and stamina to perform the duties as outlined above, including but not limited to extended periods of sitting, standing, and walking, bending, stooping, reaching, lifting, and carrying up to 30 pounds.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Team Leader):
Mission Advancement : Models and teaches the Ys values. Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to changing lives. Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition.
Collaboration : Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives. Builds relationships to create small communities. Empathetically listens and communicates for understanding when negotiating and dealing with conflict. Provides staff with feedback, coaching, guidance and support.
Operational Effectiveness : Provides others with frameworks for making decisions. Conducts prototypes to support the launching of programs and activities. Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of team. Holds staff accountable for high-quality results using a formal process to measure progress.
Personal Growth : Shares new insights. Facilitates change. Model's adaptability and an awareness of the impact of change. Utilizes non-threatening methods to address sensitive issues and inappropriate behavior or performance. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well. Uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

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