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Special Needs Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jovie

Special Needs Companion

Columbus, OH

$19/hr

Join Jovie as a Special Needs Buddy and provide companionship, encouragement, and support to a ... Must have a reliable vehicle with a valid drivers license * Able to pass a criminal background ...

Jovie

Special Needs Companion

Arlington, VA

$19/hr

Join Jovie as a Special Needs Buddy and provide companionship, encouragement, and support to a ... Must have a reliable vehicle with a valid drivers license * Able to pass a criminal background ...

JSC Transportation

Special Needs Van Driver

Waltham, MA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

JSC Transportation has childhood special needs transportation contracts that run throughout the Metrowest Boston region, including Waltham and Newton. We are looking for Part-Time Wheelchair Drivers ...

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How much do special needs driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for special needs driver in the United States is $18.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Special Needs Driver job?

A Special Needs Driver is responsible for transporting individuals with disabilities, medical conditions, or mobility challenges safely to and from locations such as schools, medical appointments, or community programs. They ensure passengers are comfortable, assist with boarding and exiting the vehicle, and follow specific safety protocols. Special Needs Drivers often operate wheelchair-accessible vans or buses and may need specialized training in first aid and passenger assistance. Their role is essential in providing reliable transportation for those who require extra care and support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Special Needs Driver position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Needs Driver, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and familiarity with safe-driving practices, especially when transporting individuals with disabilities. Training or certification in first aid, CPR, and possibly specific vehicle operation (like wheelchair lifts or specialized vans) is often required. Patience, sensitivity, and strong interpersonal communication help create a supportive and stress-free environment for passengers. These skills ensure safe, reliable, and compassionate transportation, which is essential for the well-being and daily access of individuals with special needs.

What does being special mean?

In the context of a special needs driver, being special often refers to having the skills, patience, and understanding required to assist individuals with disabilities or special needs. It involves providing safe, respectful transportation and may require additional training or certifications to ensure proper care and support during travel.

What does a typical workday look like for a Special Needs Driver?

A typical day for a Special Needs Driver involves transporting passengers with various disabilities to and from schools, medical appointments, or community activities, while ensuring their safety and comfort throughout each trip. Drivers often follow a set route or schedule and may assist with boarding, securing mobility devices, and monitoring the well-being of their riders during transit. You will also communicate with caregivers, teachers, or support staff as needed, and may complete basic vehicle safety checks before and after shifts. The role is both structured and interactive, offering daily opportunities to make a positive impact in passengers' lives.

What does spacial mean?

In the context of a special needs driver, 'spacial' is likely a misspelling of 'special,' referring to services provided to individuals with disabilities or special needs. A special needs driver is trained to assist and transport these individuals safely, often requiring additional skills, certifications, or vehicle modifications. Accurate communication and understanding of the individual's needs are essential in this role.

What is another word for special?

In the context of a special needs driver, the word 'special' can be replaced with terms like 'distinct,' 'particular,' or 'exceptional,' which emphasize unique requirements or accommodations. These words highlight the specialized skills and attention needed to safely transport individuals with diverse needs. Clear communication and understanding of specific needs are essential in this role.

What is the meaning of hot 🥵?

In the context of a special needs driver, 'hot' can refer to feeling physically warm or overheated, which is important to monitor during driving or caregiving to ensure comfort and safety. It can also describe a situation or environment that is intense or stressful, requiring the driver to stay alert and manage emotions effectively.
More about Special Needs Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Special Needs Driver jobs? Cities with the most Special Needs Driver job openings:
What states have the most Special Needs Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Needs Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Special Needs Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Special Needs Driver jobs are:
Special Needs Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Needs Driver job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 43% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,896 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Special Needs Driver- Walck Rd.

Special Needs Driver- Walck Rd.

First Student, Inc.

North Tonawanda, NY • On-site

$26.75 - $28.09/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

First Student rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 304 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 rated education support services

Job description

Now Hiring Part Time School Bus Drivers - North Tonawanda, NY
Sign-On Bonus: $7,500 for New Drivers and $10,000 for Fully Credentialed*
As a Part Time 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: $26.75 - $28.09 per hour.
  • Training Hourly Rate: $16.00 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.
  • Safety or Attendance bonuses.**
  • Commercial Learner's Permit Bonus.***

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.
*Sign-on bonus conditions apply. See location for details. Bonus offer is effective 6/1/26 - 8/31/26.
**Safety and/or Attendance bonus conditions apply. See location for details.
***Commercial Learner's Permit Bonus conditions apply. See location for details.
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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