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Substitute Bus Driver Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

WIDE AREA NETWORK ENGINEER

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$79K - $114K/yr

Driver's License Requirements. All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully ... Bus Cards (Subsidized partially by the State) Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid ...

Job Page

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

Must have and maintain a valid Arizona driver license. NOTE: Three (3) years of work experience as ... substitute for the required one (1) year of supervisory experience. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Senior Traffic Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

$100K - $151K/yr

Valid Arizona Driver's License with an acceptable driving record upon hire. * Professional ... bus-rapid transit (BRT) systems. Review and optimize signal timing plans to improve traffic flow ...

Showing results 41-45

Substitute Bus Driver information

See Arizona salary details

$6

$17

$25

How much do substitute bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for substitute bus driver in Arizona is $17.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substitute bus driver?

Substitute bus drivers are trained professionals who temporarily fill in for regular school bus drivers when they are unavailable due to illness, vacation, or other reasons. They are responsible for safely transporting students to and from school, following established routes and schedules. Substitute bus drivers must meet the same licensing and safety requirements as regular drivers, including passing background checks and holding a valid commercial driver's license with appropriate endorsements. They play a crucial role in maintaining consistent transportation services for schools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substitute bus driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substitute Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements, safe driving skills, and a good driving record. Familiarity with school bus operation, basic vehicle maintenance, and adherence to transportation safety protocols are essential, with some school districts requiring additional training or certifications. Reliability, patience, clear communication, and the ability to manage student behavior are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe and timely transport of students while maintaining order and fostering a positive environment on the bus.

What are some common challenges substitute bus drivers face when adapting to new routes or student groups?

Substitute Bus Drivers often encounter the challenge of quickly familiarizing themselves with unfamiliar routes and schedules, which requires strong attention to detail and adaptability. They may also need to manage varying student behaviors, as each group has its own dynamics and routines. Building rapport with students and coordinating with school staff and regular drivers are crucial for ensuring safety and maintaining a smooth ride. Flexibility and effective communication help substitute drivers successfully navigate these challenges and provide reliable transportation.

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

AspectSubstitute Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentOn-call, as-needed basis, covering absencesFull-time or part-time, regular routes and schedules
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, transportation companiesSchool districts, private schools

Substitute Bus Drivers fill in for regular drivers on an as-needed basis, often working irregular hours. School Bus Drivers typically have scheduled routes and consistent hours. Both roles require similar certifications and work within the school transportation industry, but their employment patterns differ.

How much do substitute bus drivers get paid?

Substitute bus drivers typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $15 to $25, depending on the location and school district. They often work part-time or on an as-needed basis and may need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsement to qualify.

What disqualifies you from being a substitute bus driver?

Substitute bus drivers are typically disqualified if they do not meet licensing requirements such as possessing a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, have a history of serious traffic violations or criminal offenses, or fail background checks and drug screenings. Additionally, inability to pass a physical exam or meet age and training requirements can disqualify candidates.

Why are school bus drivers quitting?

School bus drivers often quit due to low pay, challenging working conditions, and irregular hours that can impact work-life balance. Additionally, the job requires a commercial driver's license and safety training, and some drivers leave for better opportunities or due to burnout from the demanding schedule.

What are popular job titles related to Substitute Bus Driver jobs in AZ?

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

Infographic showing various Substitute Bus Driver job openings in Arizona 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, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,352 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Traffic Operations Supervisor

The State of Arizona

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


State Of Arizona rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated states


Job description

Traffic Operations Supervisor

Apply now Job No: 536621
Work Type: Full-time
Location: PHOENIX
Categories: Administrative Support/Customer Service, Communication/Community Relations, Law Enforcement/Detective/Corrections/Protective Services, Misc/Other/Not Applicable, Management/Supervisor

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY The Department of Public Safety's mission is to provide public safety to the state of Arizona.
Visit our website at www.azdps.gov
Traffic Operations Supervisor
Salary:  $64,113.00 - $87,574.00
To apply, you must go to the DPS website. Click here and follow the instructions to submit your on-line application.
Job Summary:

The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking an experienced professional to serve as our Traffic Operations Supervisor.  Under general supervision, supervises the operations of the Highway Patrol Traffic Operations Center (HPTOC) and performs such functions as the supervision of professional staff personnel; administration of daily operations of the HPTOC; and researching/investigating and recommending changes to the HPTOC policies, procedures, and practices. Analyzes situations quickly and responds with appropriate action. Performs related duties as assigned to include working with State Troopers, Operational Communications, Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) personnel, and other public and highway safety entities. Monitors and manages traffic conditions and assists with the management of traffic incidents. Performs administrative and training functions. 
The Traffic Operations Specialist Supervisor is responsible for the HPTOC and its budgetary responsibilities and supervises professional staff personnel.  This position is designated as uncovered; the incumbent serves at the pleasure of the Director of the Department of Public Safety.

Minimum Qualifications:

Requires three (3) years of law enforcement experience as an Arizona POST-certified peace officer or a Police Communications Dispatcher, with at least one (1) year in a supervisory role. Must obtain Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board general instructor certification within twelve (12) months of hire. Must have and maintain a valid Arizona driver license.

NOTE: Three (3) years of work experience as a Traffic Operations Specialist may substitute for the required one (1) year of supervisory experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent credited hours from an accredited college or university in Management, Leadership, Criminal Justice, or a related field.
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Office setting. 
Availability to work holidays, weekends, irregular hours, and shift work may be required, which may extend past or before regular assigned shifts, and/or respond to emergency staffing callouts on a 24-hour basis, sometimes on short notice. 
May, on occasion, be exposed to loud sounds and distracting noise levels.  

Must pass a background investigation.

Progression to the next pay level/step requires an overall performance rating of at least "Standard" in the last 12 months.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

Applicants must complete an examination process. A polygraph and background investigation are required for successful applicants. DPS supports a drug-free work environment through pre-employment drug testing.
If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements. All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Benefits:

The Arizona Department of Public Safety is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to benefit-eligible employees in cooperation with the State of Arizona.
Accrued vacation pay and sick days
10 paid holidays per year
Deferred compensation plan
Top-ranked retirement plans
Affordable medical, dental, vision, life, and short & long-term disability insurance plans
Employee Assistance, Peer and Family Support Programs
Bus Cards (Subsidized partially by the State)
Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program).

For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

Retirement:

State employees are required to participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS), the State sponsored retirement contribution plan and the Long-Term Disability (LTD) program after a 27-week waiting period. The ASRS defined benefit plan provides for life-long income upon retirement. You will also have the option to participate in a voluntary deferred compensation program to take advantage of tax-deferred retirement investments.

On, or shortly after, your first day of work you will be provided with additional information about the available insurance plans, enrollment instructions, submission deadlines and effective dates.

Contact Us:

The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by calling (602) 223-2290. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation.

Advertised: 03 Apr 2026 US Mountain Standard Time
Applications close:

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About State of Arizona

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of Arizona is not a conventional company, but the governmental structure presiding over the U.S. state of Arizona, headquartered in Phoenix, AZ. The State of Arizona operates within the industry of government administration and public services across various sectors including education, health, public safety, transportation, and economic services. These services are aimed to ensure the security, prosperity, and well-being of the Arizona citizens and communities. Founded on February 14, 1912, when Arizona became the 48th state to join the Union, the State of Arizona is committed to providing people-centric, efficient, and effective government. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for all Arizonans by providing a secure environment and advancing the state's economy.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US

Year founded

1912