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Small Bus Driver Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Bus Driver

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Bus Driver Provide safe and efficient transportation services for the district Minimum ... No matter how large or small, we value excellence in all parts of this organization. Excellence is ...

Van Driver

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$15.50 - $16/hr

A Van Driver , also called a Shuttle Driver , drives a van or small bus to collect and deliver hotel guests to and from the airport. The hotel driver also is responsible for transporting guests to ...

Van Driver

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

A Van Driver , also called a Shuttle Driver , drives a van or small bus to collect and deliver hotel guests to and from the airport. The hotel driver also is responsible for transporting guests to ...

Van Driver

Guadalupe, AZ · On-site

$12.75 - $17.50/hr

A Van Driver , also called a Shuttle Driver , drives a van or small bus to collect and deliver hotel guests to and from the airport. The hotel driver also is responsible for transporting guests to ...

Van Driver

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

A Van Driver , also called a Shuttle Driver , drives a van or small bus to collect and deliver hotel guests to and from the airport. The hotel driver also is responsible for transporting guests to ...

Van Driver

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

A Van Driver , also called a Shuttle Driver , drives a van or small bus to collect and deliver hotel guests to and from the airport. The hotel driver also is responsible for transporting guests to ...

Van Driver

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

A Van Driver, also called a Shuttle Driver, drives a van or small bus to collect and deliver hotel guests to and from the airport. The hotel driver also is responsible for transporting guests to ...

Bus Aide

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Under the guidance of the School Bus driver, assists in monitoring and maintaining appropriate ... Experience working with children one on one and in small groups. Experience with special needs ...

Bus Aide

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Under the guidance of the School Bus driver, assists in monitoring and maintaining appropriate ... Experience working with children one on one and in small groups. Experience with special needs ...

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Small Bus Driver information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do small bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for small bus driver in Phoenix, AZ is $19.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.21 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 Phoenix, AZ?

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

Infographic showing various Small Bus Driver job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,906 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Bus Driver

Provide safe and efficient transportation services for the district

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Possession of - or ability to receive during the initial training process - Arizona commercial driver's license and State bus driver's current Department of Public Safety certification
  • Satisfactory criminal background check
  • Successful driving record for the past five years
  • Bus or heavy automotive equipment driving experience preferred
  • Ability to complete the current State's physical performance test for school bus drivers
  • Strong communications and human relations skills
  • Ability to work with various groups, teachers, administrators, and students
  • Ability to work flexible hours
  • Ability to pass the Arizona Department of Transportation physical and Federal drug and alcohol tests
  • Knowledge of and adherence to all policies, regulations, and procedures
  • Vision and hearing are adequate to exercise job responsibilities in a safe manner
Core Job Functions:
  • Participate in the bus safety drill program for all schools as required, while maintaining and submitting all necessary records for the program
  • Run the assigned schedule efficiently according to the written route sheet, varying only after consultation and approval from the routing coordinator
  • Perform a thorough and quality pre-and post-trip inspection of all assigned vehicles, reporting any mechanical and/or safety defects in the proper manner
  • Maintain the highest degree of driving safety in varied weather and road conditions
  • Understand and practice the most current defensive driving techniques
  • Record all trip and route information on appropriate forms according to department policy
  • Guide and instruct the bus attendant in a cooperative fashion when an attendant is assigned
  • Transport only authorized students and student chaperones/teachers/coaches
  • Immediately report all incidents/accidents to the proper authorities according to policy and procedure, and complete all necessary reports as directed by the supervisor
  • Keep current on all personal certification requirements required for the position, and make arrangements with the training coordinator for any needed updates
  • Participate in district and department service programs and professional growth programs
  • Work with a large cross-section of people in a professional and non-judgmental manner, being a positive role model to others
  • Make the well-being of students the fundamental value in all decision-making
  • Perform all duties safely and prudently as directed and follow all district policies
Core Values:
  • Excellence in all we do. No matter how large or small, we value excellence in all parts of this organization. Excellence is a value, a quality, and our most important product.
  • Equity and fairness in all things. Education is the great leveler, and we intend for all our students, staff, and patrons to have the opportunity, tools, and ability to succeed and excel.
  • Collaboration is an effective decision-making model as well as an effective morale-enhancing model.
  • Integrity is simply non-negotiable. Honesty, integrity, and reliability are the foundations of our organization.
  • Efficiency is the essence of being a good steward of public trust. Our community supports us because we continually demonstrate our ability to produce the very best by carefully using the resources available.
Professional Qualities:
  • Respond to all internal and external customers, as it relates to position, in a prompt, efficient, friendly, and patient manner
  • Function effectively as a team member
  • Be responsible, reliable, and punctual
  • Be flexible and adaptable to change
  • Positively accept direction
  • Maintain courteous, cooperative working relationships with students, staff, and parents
  • Direct constructive criticism toward improving the district
  • Exercise positive problem-solving behavior and conflict resolution skills
  • Adhere to the dress code appropriate to the site and job
  • Share sensitive student and staff information on a need-to-know basis
  • Be a positive role model
  • Work with a large cross-section of people in a professional and non-judgmental manner
Physical Requirements – Bus Drivers and Bus Attendants

This position requires a range of physical abilities to perform the essential duties.

Physical Demands:
  • Standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and sitting.
  • Using finger or manual dexterity and repetitive finger motion.
  • Speaking, hearing, and seeing (with or without correction).
  • Maintaining focus for extended periods.
Lifting & Force:
  • Occasionally: up to 50 pounds of force.
  • Frequently: up to 30 pounds of force.
  • Constantly: up to 30 pounds of force.
Working Environment:
  • Travel, odors, dust, and poor ventilation.
  • Limited workspace, loud noises, and bloodborne pathogens.
Additional Requirements
  • You must be able to pass a physical performance test in accordance with the Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Arizona Administrative Code.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

The above job description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department.