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Small School Bus Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Now Hiring Part Time Small School Bus Drivers - Albany City School District , Albany, New York As a Part Time Small School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of ...

Small School Bus Driver

Glenmont, NY · On-site

$29.73 - $30.75/hr

Now Hiring Part Time Small School Bus Drivers - Albany City School District , Albany, New York As a Part Time Small School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of ...

Small School Bus Driver

Glenmont, NY · On-site

$29.73 - $30.75/hr

Now Hiring Part Time Small School Bus Drivers - Albany City School District , Albany, New York As a Part Time Small School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of ...

School Bus Driver

Rochester, NY · On-site

$26.50 - $30.50/hr

Prior school bus driving experience preferred Pay * $26.50/hr for Small School Bus Drivers * $30.50/hr for Big School Bus Drivers * Guaranteed minimum of 30 hours/week (must be available for both ...

School Bus Driver

Rochester, NY · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

As a School Bus Driver at Ontario Bus Inc., you will play a vital role in ensuring the safe ... Operate both large and small school buses, following all safety protocols. * Ensure children's well ...

School Bus Driver

Rochester, NY · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

As a School Bus Driver at Ontario Bus Inc., you will play a vital role in ensuring the safe ... Operate both large and small school buses, following all safety protocols. * Ensure children's well ...

School Bus Driver

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $27.25/hr

Iowa Central School Bus is now Hiring School Bus Drivers in Iowa City, IA. Our drivers have flexible hours and time off during school holidays. Tired of paying for a babysitter? At Iowa Central, you ...

School Bus Driver

Lynnwood, WA · On-site

$36.83 - $42.23/hr

Bus Driver/Relief Bus Driver Date Posted: 7/1/2026 Location: Transportation Closing Date: Open ... Drive large and small school buses with automatic transmission. * Read maps and follow directions ...

School Bus Driver

Gary, IN · On-site

$25/hr

As a school bus driver at Indiana Central School Bus, you are not only an essential worker, but also a HERO to children every day! We are looking for candidates who are responsible, love children ...

School Bus Driver

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$25.58 - $31.50/hr

Wisconsin Central School Bus is now Hiring School Bus Drivers in Milwaukee, WI. Our drivers have flexible hours and time off during school holidays. As a school bus driver at Wisconsin Central School ...

School Bus Driver

Marion, IL · On-site

$23.90/hr

As a school bus driver at Illinois Central School Bus, you are not only an essential worker, but also a HERO to children every day! We are looking for candidates who are responsible, love children ...

School Bus Driver

Clinton, MD · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

As the School Bus Driver, you will be responsible for the safe operation of the school bus while adhering to a strict schedule and ensuring your passengers' well-being. The ideal candidate has a ...

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Small School Bus Driver information

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How much do small school bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for small school bus driver in the United States is $21.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Small School Bus Drivers?

Small School Bus Drivers are professionals responsible for safely transporting students to and from school and related activities using smaller-sized school buses. They ensure passenger safety, follow designated routes and schedules, and adhere to traffic laws and school district policies. In addition to driving, they may assist students with special needs, perform pre-trip vehicle inspections, and maintain order on the bus. Their role is vital in providing reliable transportation and ensuring that students arrive at school safely and on time.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

Small school bus drivers are typically disqualified if they have a criminal record, especially for offenses related to child safety or violence, or if they have a poor driving record with multiple traffic violations or accidents. Additionally, failing to meet age requirements, lacking a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with the appropriate endorsements, or having health issues that impair driving ability can disqualify candidates.

Do you need a CDL to drive a school bus?

Yes, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a school bus endorsement is required to operate a school bus. Drivers must also pass background checks, medical exams, and training specific to school bus operation.

Is there a demand for school bus drivers?

There is a steady demand for school bus drivers due to ongoing student transportation needs, driver shortages, and the requirement for qualified individuals with proper licensing and safety training. Many school districts and transportation companies are actively hiring to fill these positions, often offering flexible schedules and benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Small School Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Small School Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws. Familiarity with vehicle inspection procedures, two-way radio communication, and scheduling or routing software is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and a calm demeanor are crucial soft skills for safely managing students and interacting with parents and school staff. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring student safety, maintaining order, and adhering to schedules in a school transportation environment.

Where do school bus drivers make the most money?

School bus drivers tend to earn higher wages in regions with higher living costs or where there is a greater demand for transportation services. States or districts with larger student populations and unionized drivers often offer higher pay rates and better benefits. Experience, certifications, and working for private companies can also influence earnings.

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

Small school bus drivers often face challenges such as managing student behavior, maintaining punctuality despite traffic or weather conditions, and ensuring student safety at all times. Effective communication with students, school staff, and parents is essential to address behavioral issues and keep everyone informed. Time management skills and familiarity with alternative routes can help drivers stay on schedule. Regular training and support from the school transportation team also play a key role in handling these challenges confidently.

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

AspectSmall School Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsementsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements
Work EnvironmentSmaller buses, often for local routes or specialized transportationLarger buses, typically for longer or district-wide routes
Employer & IndustrySchools, private transportation companies, daycare centersSchool districts, transportation departments, private schools

Small School Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers share similar credentials and work environments, both requiring a CDL with passenger and school bus endorsements. The main difference lies in the size of the vehicle and the scope of routes—small bus drivers operate smaller buses for local or specialized routes, while school bus drivers typically handle larger buses for district-wide transportation.

More about Small School Bus Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Small School Bus Driver jobs? Cities with the most Small School Bus Driver job openings:
What states have the most Small School Bus Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Small School Bus Driver jobs include:
Small School Bus Driver

Small School Bus Driver

First Student

Glenmont, NY

$29.73 - $30.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 hours ago


First Student rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 315 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 78 rated education support services


Job description

Now Hiring Part Time Small School Bus Drivers - Albany City School District, Albany, New York

As a Part Time Small School Bus Driver, you will play a vital role in your community and the lives of students. You will start students' days with morning pickup before school and transport them safely back home in the afternoon. Additional hours for field trips and special event transportation may be available.

No experience is necessary to become a school bus driver! We are here to help you succeed with expert training and guidance to help you become a safe and professional First Student school bus driver.

School Bus Driver benefits:

  • Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications
  • Hourly Rate: $29.73 - $30.75 per hour
  • Training Hourly Rate: $29.73 per hour
  • Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training provided!
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance or coverage options
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match.
  • Part-time, flexible schedule: Split shifts (AM/PM routes), weekdays only; No nights, weekends, holidays, or summers required.
  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations across the U.S. & Canada!
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.
  • Community Impact: Be a trusted figure for students and families.
  • Employee Discount Program: Discounts on various products and services.
  • Guaranteed Minimum Hours: Get paid for 4 hours per day at minimum.

Your day as a School Bus Driver will include:

  • Safely transport students to and from school and activities.
  • Supervise boarding and unloading at stops; assist students with seatbelts and mobility aids.
  • Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (brakes, lights, tires, emergency exits).
  • Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the bus clean and sanitary.
  • Obey all traffic laws and company safety standards.
  • Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.
  • Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

School Bus Driver Jobs are Perfect For:

  • Retirees looking for supplemental income
  • Stay-at-home parents seeking daytime work
  • Veterans transitioning into civilian roles
  • Anyone seeking a second career or flexible job
  • People who enjoy working with children

You might be a good fit as a School Bus Driver if you:

  • Are at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid driver's license for at least 3 years
  • Are looking for a part-time schedule and summers off
  • Enjoy working with students

Note: This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.

Great School Bus Drivers often bring skills such as:

  • Valid Class B License
  • History driving with ride share companies or taxi services
  • Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate.

Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First Student! Make an impact in your community while enjoying flexible schedules, great pay, and unmatched support.


First for a reason:

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more than 5 million students and passengers to and from their destinations each day! Our family of brands include Transco, Total Transportation, Maggies Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation; they create and implement the most advanced training and technology the transportation industry has to offer.


In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are considered safety-sensitive and are therefore subject to drug and alcohol testing, including cannabis.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. First is also committed to providing a drug-free workplace. First will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, and any other fair chance law. Philadelphia's Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance Poster is at this link or upon request https://www.phila.gov/media/20210423160847/Fair-Chance-Hiring-law-poster.pdf.


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