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Transit Bus Driver Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

City of Johnson City

Transit Operator I

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$19.15/hr

The Transit Operator I operates a City passenger bus following a specific schedule and route as a relief or temporary driver. Demand-response service is provided which includes working on Saturdays.

City of Johnson City

Transit Operator I

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$19.15/hr

The Transit Operator I operates a City passenger bus following a specific schedule and route as a relief or temporary driver. Demand-response service is provided which includes working on Saturdays.

City of Johnson City

School Bus Driver

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$20.44/hr

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee has openings for school bus drivers (Transit Operator I and Transit Operator II positions). Online applications are being accepted for temporary, part-time and ...

City of Johnson City

School Bus Driver

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$20.44/hr

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee has openings for school bus drivers (Transit Operator I and Transit Operator II positions). Online applications are being accepted for temporary, part-time and ...

Morgan County Schools

Bus Driver

Wartburg, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 8/6/2025 Location: To Be Determined Bus Driver Purpose: * transport students over assigned routes and field trips/excursions * ensure that bus is in safe ...

Oneida School District #351

Bus Driver

Oneida, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

School Bus Driver Position Purpose Under the general supervision of the Director of Facilities, to ensure the safe transportation of students, staff, and others to and from school, residential ...

Jasper County Charter System

Bus Driver

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

BUS DRIVER BASIC FUNCTION/PURPOSE Provides for the safe operation of the assigned bus and control of the students while transporting to and from their assigned school or school-related function ...

Morgan County Schools

Bus Driver

Wartburg, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

Bus Driver Purpose: * transport students over assigned routes and field trips/excursions * ensure that bus is in safe operating condition * ensure safety of students while riding the bus and while ...

Cocke County School District

Bus Driver

Newport, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $20/hr

School Bus Driver Position Purpose Under the general supervision of the Director of Facilities, to ensure the safe transportation of students, staff, and others to and from school, residential ...

Fayette County Public Schools

Bus Driver

Somerville, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

The responsibilities of a bus driver are: transport students to and from school and other sites within designated route(s), ensure the safety of the student passengers while in a school vehicle.

Athens City Schools

Bus Driver

Athens, TN · On-site

$20.16/hr

Position Type: Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 4/22/2024 Location: Athens City Schools Tennessee Driver's License CDL with an S&P endorsement required $20.16 hourly rate Attachment(s): * Bus ...

Hamblen County Schools

Bus Driver

Morristown, TN · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Transportation/Bus Driver Date Posted: 6/4/2026 Location: Countywide Date Available: 07/27/2026 Closing Date: Until FilledDescription: 1) Minimum five years driving experience; (2) Valid TN ...

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All JobsTransit Bus Driver JobsTransit Bus Driver Jobs in Tennessee

Transit Bus Driver information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$17

$28

How much do transit bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit bus driver in Tennessee is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Transit bus drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating heavy traffic, maintaining schedules despite delays, and managing interactions with a diverse range of passengers. Handling stressful situations calmly and practicing effective communication are key to overcoming these obstacles. Many transit agencies provide training in conflict resolution and defensive driving, equipping drivers with the skills needed to manage these challenges safely and professionally. Additionally, support from supervisors and collaboration with fellow drivers can help build a positive work environment.

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

AspectTransit Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement and school bus certification
Work EnvironmentPublic transit systems, urban and suburban routesSchool campuses, routes during school hours
Employer & IndustryPublic transportation agenciesSchool districts or private schools
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Both Transit Bus Drivers and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsement. Transit Bus Drivers typically operate in urban transit systems, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students to and from school. The work environments and employer types differ, but the certifications and skills overlap significantly.

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

To thrive as a Transit Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), safe driving skills, and knowledge of local traffic regulations. Familiarity with fare collection systems, GPS navigation, and basic vehicle inspection tools is typically required. Outstanding customer service, patience, and stress management help drivers handle diverse passenger needs and unexpected situations. These skills ensure reliable, safe transportation and positive community interactions, which are essential for public transit operations.

What are transit bus drivers?

Transit bus drivers are professional drivers responsible for operating buses that transport passengers along designated routes within cities or metropolitan areas. They ensure the safe and timely transportation of riders, follow schedules, adhere to traffic laws, and provide customer service by assisting passengers with questions or special needs. Transit bus drivers may also collect fares, check passes, and report incidents or mechanical issues. Their role is vital for public transportation systems, helping people commute to work, school, and other destinations.
What are popular job titles related to Transit Bus Driver jobs in Tennessee? For Transit Bus Driver jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Transit Bus Driver jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Transit Bus Driver jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Transit Bus Driver jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Transit Bus Driver job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Transit Bus Driver jobs in TN? For Transit Bus Driver jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Transit Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transit Bus Driver job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,340 per year, or $18 per hour.

Transit Operator I

City of Johnson City, TN

Johnson City, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

The City of Johnson City is accepting applications for a Transit Operator I position. The employee performs entry level semiskilled work operating a mass transit vehicle, collecting fares and overseeing the safety of passengers. The Transit Operator I operates a City passenger bus following a specific schedule and route as a relief or temporary driver. Demand-response service is provided which includes working on Saturdays. An employee in this class is under direct supervision of a trainer and/or transit supervisor. An operator is responsible for obtaining maintenance and repair work, and for making daily reports of distances travelled, passengers carried and fares collected. The work is also reviewed through the safe and satisfactory operation of the vehicle and is performed on a shift basis. The work involves driving one type of service daily.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: General knowledge of the principles and practices of bus operations; general knowledge of City and State regulations and laws pertaining to the operation of buses; general knowledge of driving courtesy and safety; ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions; ability to establish and maintain good public relations; and integrity. Corrected eyesight of 20/40. Good hand and eye coordination. Upper body strength to operate large vehicles (i.e. school bus, transit bus). Ability to learn traffic patterns and streets. Prolonged periods of sitting and driving.

Acceptable Experience and Training: Completion of high school or GED and some experience in driving a bus or equivalent vehicle; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. A CDL A, B, or C with Passenger endorsement is required and training is provided. Pre-employment DOT physical, drug screening, background check and motor vehicle record check required.

EEO/AA


This is a Safety Sensitive position subject to pre-employment, random and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing as allowed by law.

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