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Special Needs Bus Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ozark R-VI School District

Bus Aide ECSE

Ozark, MO · On-site

$11.50 - $14.50/hr

To assist the bus driver on the safe transportation of students on the Special Needs bus. PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Secures students in child restraint system on special needs bus. 2. Assists ...

Ozark R-VI School District

Bus Aide ECSE

Ozark, MO · On-site

$11.50 - $14.50/hr

To assist the bus driver on the safe transportation of students on the Special Needs bus. PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Secures students in child restraint system on special needs bus. 2. Assists ...

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Special Needs Bus Assistant information

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How much do special needs bus assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for special needs bus assistant in the United States is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do bus driver assistants make?

Bus driver assistants, also known as bus aides or monitors, typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and school district policies. They often work part-time or full-time schedules and may need special training or certifications related to student safety and first aid.

What is the difference between Special Needs Bus Assistant vs Paraprofessional?

AspectSpecial Needs Bus AssistantParaprofessional
CredentialsMay require specific training or certifications related to special needsOften requires general education or teaching assistant certifications
Work EnvironmentSchool buses, transportation settings, special education programsClassrooms, schools, educational settings
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, transportation companies, special education servicesPublic or private schools, educational institutions
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Special Needs Bus Assistant and a Paraprofessional lies in their work environment and specific responsibilities. Special Needs Bus Assistants primarily focus on supporting students with disabilities during transportation, often requiring specialized training. Paraprofessionals work mainly inside classrooms assisting teachers and students with various needs. Both roles are vital in supporting students' educational experiences but differ in their daily duties and settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Special Needs Bus Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Needs Bus Assistant, you need a basic understanding of child development, safety procedures, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with first aid/CPR certification and specialized equipment such as safety harnesses or wheelchair lifts is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and compassion are essential soft skills for supporting students with diverse needs. These abilities ensure a safe, supportive, and respectful environment for students during transportation.

What are Special Needs Bus Assistants?

Special Needs Bus Assistants are professionals who support students with disabilities or special needs during transportation to and from school. They help ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of students by assisting with boarding and exiting the bus, securing wheelchairs or safety devices, and addressing any behavioral or medical needs. These assistants work closely with bus drivers and school staff to maintain a secure and supportive environment for all passengers.

What is a good job for someone with special needs?

A good job for someone with special needs depends on their abilities and interests; roles such as a special needs bus assistant, classroom aide, or support staff can be suitable. These positions often require patience, communication skills, and sometimes specific training or certifications. They provide meaningful work environments and opportunities to support others with similar needs.

What disqualifies you from being a bus driver?

Disqualifications for a Special Needs Bus Assistant or bus driver typically include a history of serious criminal offenses, a poor driving record, or failing background checks. Additionally, candidates must usually have a valid driver's license, meet age requirements, and pass health and drug screenings. Certain medical conditions or disabilities that impair driving ability may also disqualify applicants.

What are some common challenges a Special Needs Bus Assistant faces during daily routes, and how can they be managed?

Special Needs Bus Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral issues, ensuring the safety of students with diverse needs, and communicating effectively with both drivers and caregivers. To address these challenges, assistants are trained in behavior management techniques, de-escalation strategies, and safe restraint procedures when necessary. Regular collaboration with the transportation team and open communication with parents or guardians also help ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students during transit.

What skills do you need to be a bus attendant?

A special needs bus assistant needs strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to handle emergency situations calmly. They should have good interpersonal skills, basic first aid knowledge, and the physical ability to assist passengers with mobility challenges. Certification in first aid and CPR is often required or preferred.
More about Special Needs Bus Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Special Needs Bus Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Special Needs Bus Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Special Needs Bus jobs? The most popular types of Special Needs Bus jobs are:
What states have the most Special Needs Bus Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Needs Bus Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Special Needs Bus Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Special Needs Bus Assistant jobs are:
Special Needs Bus Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Needs Bus Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,674 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Substitute Special Education Bus Assistants

Substitute Special Education Bus Assistants

Billings Public Schools

Billings, MT • On-site

$15/hr

Temporary

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Substitute/Substitute Special Education Bus Assistant
Date Posted:
4/21/2023
Location:
Various
Date Available:
As soon as possible
Closing Date:
Always Open and neededSubstitute Special Needs Bus Assistants
$15.00 an hour for Substitutes
Duties: Substitute Special Needs Bus Assistants come in on call-in basis to ride the school bus in the morning and the afternoon on an as needed basis.
Assist Special Needs students in route to and from school on the bus.
Education Requirements: High School Diploma or GED required.
Go to www.billingsschools.org and click "Employment Opportunities" for either the online application for external applicants or the internal application for internal applicants (currently employed by BPS in a regular or temporary position).
"AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: This employer does not knowingly discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or national origin."
Open Until Filled
* Please Note: Positions posted as "Open Until Filled" must be posted for a minimum of 10 calendar days and then can close at any time after that.

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