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Special Needs Bus Monitor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Special Needs Bus Monitor information

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How much do special needs bus monitor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for special needs bus monitor in the United States is $67,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do special needs bus monitors make in the US?

Special needs bus monitors in the US typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, with the median around $14 to $16. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and school district, and some positions may require CPR or first aid certification.

What are some common challenges special needs bus monitors face during daily routes, and how are they typically addressed?

Special Needs Bus Monitors often encounter challenges such as managing a variety of behavioral and medical needs, ensuring all students are safely secured, and maintaining effective communication with both drivers and parents. Addressing these challenges requires patience, strong observational skills, and familiarity with individualized care plans. Most districts provide ongoing training in de-escalation techniques, first aid, and protocols for emergencies, helping monitors respond confidently and compassionately to any situation that arises.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a special needs bus monitor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Needs Bus Monitor, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic first aid knowledge, and experience working with children or individuals with disabilities. Familiarity with safety equipment, communication devices, and sometimes CPR certification are typically required. Patience, strong observational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for supporting students and collaborating with bus drivers and caregivers. These abilities are crucial to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of students with special needs during transportation.

What is a special needs bus monitor?

Special needs bus monitors are professionals who ride on school buses to help ensure the safety and well-being of students with disabilities or special needs during transportation. They assist students with boarding and exiting the bus, secure wheelchairs or other mobility devices, and provide support during the ride to prevent accidents or behavioral incidents. These monitors work closely with bus drivers and school staff to create a safe, supportive environment for all students. Their role often includes communicating with parents and teachers about students' needs and any incidents that occur during transportation.

How many hours a day do special needs bus monitors work?

Special needs bus monitors typically work around 2 to 4 hours per shift, often during morning and afternoon routes. The exact hours depend on the school district's schedule and route assignments, and some monitors may work part-time or full-time schedules. Overtime or additional hours may be available depending on the needs of the transportation program.

Is being a special needs bus monitor hard?

Being a special needs bus monitor can be challenging as it requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle diverse behaviors and safety concerns. The job involves supervising children with special needs during transportation, often in a noisy environment, and may require training in first aid and behavior management. Overall, it demands attentiveness and emotional resilience but can be rewarding for those committed to supporting students with special needs.

What is the difference between Special Needs Bus Monitor vs Bus Driver?

AspectSpecial Needs Bus MonitorBus Driver
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in special needs careCommercial driver's license (CDL); training in vehicle operation
Work EnvironmentSchool buses, assisting students with disabilitiesDriving school buses, transporting students
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, special education programsSchool districts, transportation services
Common Search & ComparisonSpecial Needs Bus Monitor vs Bus Driver

The main difference is that Special Needs Bus Monitors focus on assisting students with disabilities and ensuring their safety during transit, while Bus Drivers operate the vehicle and are responsible for driving. Both roles often work together but have distinct responsibilities and required credentials.

How do I become a special needs bus monitor?

To become a special needs bus monitor, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete training on student safety and behavior management. Some positions may require CPR and first aid certification, and good communication skills are essential for working with students and drivers.
More about Special Needs Bus Monitor jobs
What cities are hiring for Special Needs Bus Monitor jobs? Cities with the most Special Needs Bus Monitor job openings:
What states have the most Special Needs Bus Monitor jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Needs Bus Monitor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Special Needs Bus Monitor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,955 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

$20.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

SCHOOL BUS MONITOR

VACANCY: The Valley View Public School District is seeking individuals to fill positions of School Bus Monitors for the safe transportation of students.
JOB SUMMARY:ย  Under the supervision of the Transportation Director for Special Services, this individual is responsible for the safety of students on the school bus during the assigned routes.ย Bus Monitors, when needed, will assist with field trips, extra curricular activity runs, etc. normally within a 50 miles radius of Valley View District boundary, but occasionally to more distant locations.
Some of these duties include, but are not limited to, the following:



  • Report to the dispatcher for job assignments before AM routes and PM start time.
  • Assisting students during pick up, transport and discharge at designated locations.
  • Depending on needs of department you can expect, on a daily basis, the possibility of being assigned a route/activity that may/will exceed your estimated punch out time.
  • Assist on field trips when needed.
  • Maintain order on the school bus.ย  Reports the names of unruly passengers on the appropriate referral form.
  • Review daily the special needs of students on the bus.ย  Report changes to Special Education Routing Dispatcher in writing.
  • Assist in maintaining the cleanliness of the bus.
  • Files all required reports.
  • Assist the driver in the proper securement of car seat, vest, wheelchair and special devices.
  • Ability to adapt to the special needs of students.

ย 
QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bilingual a plus
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Ability to supervise groups of students
  • Knowledge of (or ability to learn) Car seat, Vest and Wheelchair securement
  • Able to pass physical (pre-employment and yearly), includes T.B, drug and alcohol testing
  • Ability to successfully complete bus monitor certification program


PAY SCALE AND BENEFIT DISCLOSURE:
Pay:


  • $20.54 Per Hour


Benefits:

  • Medical/Vision and Dental coverage through BCBSIL (full-time employees only)
  • FSA and Dependent DayCare accounts (full-time employees only)
  • Life and AD&D insurance
  • 403B
  • IMRF is offered based on the number of hours worked

ย 
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:ย  Applicants should apply online at www.vvsd.org and upload a letter of application with resume and three letters of recommendation, dated within the last twelve (12) months.ย 
SELECTION PROCEDURE: ย iInterviews with selected applicants will be held as soon as practicable.ย 
ย  ย EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER