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Transit Bus Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Provides safe and reliable transportation service to passengers by operating position specific vehicles which may include sedans, vans, paratransit vans, limousines, taxi-cabs, shuttles, transit ...

Coach Operator

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$51K - $78K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operators a transit bus safely, courteously, and efficiently, while maintaining schedule adherence. * Knowledgeable about all routes, transfer points, and fare structures at assigned division.

Coach Operator

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$54K - $78K/yr

Operators a transit bus safely, courteously, and efficiently, while maintaining schedule adherence. Knowledgeable about all routes, transfer points, and fare structures at assigned division. Performs ...

Fixed Route Bus Driver - OCTA

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$25.24 - $33.76/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

... on transit experience) or in accordance with your CBA What we Offer: * $1500 Sign on Bonus ... Proper operation of all wheelchair lifts, for each bus model * Report immediately to dispatch any ...

Bus Driver - Senior

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$30.72 - $38.38/hr

DEFINITION To coordinate driver training; to train Bus Drivers to required standards for operating buses in Placer County transit systems; to operate a bus in transporting passengers on Placer County ...

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Class B Bus Driver with Air Breaks

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

To follow all Pegasus Transit policies, state and federal regulations, function as a collaborator ... Operating and maintaining / cleaning transportation vehicles with a focus on safety and customer ...

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School/Class B Bus Drivers

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

To follow all Pegasus Transit policies, state and federal regulations, function as a collaborator ... Operating and maintaining / cleaning transportation vehicles with a focus on safety and customer ...

Transit Supervisor I

Fresno, CA · On-site

$80K - $96K/yr

... safe bus operating practices, ability to coach and train drivers in correct operating and safe ... position of Transit Supervisor I. Candidates must achieve a passing score to qualify for the ...

Showing results 41-60

Transit Bus Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$19

$26

How much do transit bus operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit bus operator in California is $20.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Transit Bus Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a clean driving record, and thorough knowledge of traffic laws and safety procedures. Familiarity with fare collection systems, GPS navigation, and basic vehicle maintenance tools is typically required. Exceptional customer service, patience, and strong communication skills help operators handle diverse passengers and unexpected situations. These competencies are vital for ensuring passenger safety, schedule reliability, and positive public interactions on daily routes.

What does a transit bus operator do?

The primary responsibilities of a transit bus operator or driver are to transport passengers along a pre-assigned route. They have designated stops where they collect the fare from each passenger. It is important to make these stops on schedule. A transit bus operator also performs basic maintenance duties, such as checking the oil, tires, lights, and cleanliness of the vehicle. Qualifications to become a transit bus operator or driver include a commercial driver's license with a passenger endorsement,

What are some common challenges transit bus operators face during their shifts, and how are they supported in handling them?

Transit Bus Operators often encounter challenges such as traffic congestion, schedule adherence, and managing interactions with a diverse range of passengers. They may also face unexpected route changes or inclement weather conditions. Transit agencies typically provide training in customer service and defensive driving, as well as real-time communication with dispatchers to offer support during difficult situations. Many employers also offer wellness programs and peer support networks to help operators manage the physical and emotional demands of the job.

What is a transit bus operator?

Transit Bus Operators are professionals responsible for driving buses along designated routes to transport passengers safely and efficiently. They pick up and drop off riders at scheduled stops, collect fares, and provide information or assistance to passengers as needed. In addition to driving, they ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, adhere to traffic laws, and may assist people with disabilities. Transit Bus Operators often work for city or regional transportation agencies and play a vital role in public transportation systems.

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

AspectTransit Bus OperatorSchool Bus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, often a school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentUrban or suburban public transit systems, city streetsSchool campuses, residential areas, school routes
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, governmentSchool districts, private or public schools
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Transit Bus Operators and School Bus Drivers require a CDL with passenger endorsements and work in vehicle operation within their respective environments. Transit Bus Operators typically serve public transit systems in urban areas, while School Bus Drivers focus on transporting students to and from school. Despite differences in routes and settings, the skills and certifications needed are quite similar, making them comparable roles in the transportation industry.

What cities in California are hiring for Transit Bus Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Transit Bus Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Transit Bus Operator jobs in CA?

For Transit Bus Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Transit Bus Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,598 per year, or $20 per hour.

Transit CDL Driver - Part time

WeDriveU

Fresno, CA

$23.02/hr

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago


WeDriveU rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 9 rated taxi private hire


Job description


WeDriveUis the leader in shared mobility solutions that connect communities, campuses, and workplaces. WeDriveU operates private shuttle and public transit systems across the U.S serving millions of passenger journeys a year. The company's 5,500+ team members operate 4,000 vehicles across 55 U.S. locations, providing safe, reliable and sustainable options as part of a global family of brands serving more than 1 billionbus and rail passengers on four continents. Visitwedriveu.comto learn more about our company, clients and career opportunities.

Responsibilities Include:

  • Provides safe and reliable transportation service to passengers by operating position specific vehicles which may include sedans, vans, paratransit vans, limousines, taxi-cabs, shuttles, transit buses, school buses, and/or motor coaches with a fixed or changing route.
  • Reports any maintenance problems to Maintenance in accordance with Company procedure and does not operate an unsafe vehicle.
  • Reports to duty on time and maintains assigned route on time but in a safe manner.
  • Physically assists passengers in evacuation of the vehicle in case of emergency.
  • Immediately reports any accident or incident per Company policy.
  • Exercises passenger and/or student management per Company policy.
  • Informs all appropriate personnel of problems/procedures.
  • Keeps the interior of the assigned vehicle clean and presentable.
  • Presents a neat and professional personal appearance at all times.
  • Ensures vehicle is properly fueled according to facility procedures.
  • Completes all required paperwork (including route change sheets, time cards, vehicle repair requests) and submits to the appropriate authority in a timely manner.
  • Maintains a cooperative attitude with fellow employees, supervisors, customers, and passengers while always promoting company goodwill.
  • Prepares vehicle for inclement weather conditions, including scraping or cleaning windows, applying tire chains.
  • Safely and efficiently utilizes vehicle equipment, including wheelchair lifts, radios and emergency equipment.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Additional responsibilities for our Paratransit Drivers may apply per location requirements and include but are not limited to:

  • Must have experience transporting senior and/or disabled citizens in accordance with pre-arranged appointments/schedules
  • Must be able to provide individualized assistance/accommodation to senior and or disabled passengers by utilizing wheelchair lifts, seats and other special access necessary to effect a safe, secure and comfortable ride
  • Must ensure that individuals with disabilities have adequate time to complete boarding or disembarking from the vehicle
  • Previous experience as a Paratransit Driver recommended


Qualifications

Requirements Include:

  • Must be at least 21 years of age;
  • Must possess, or be able to obtain, all valid applicable state license and other required certifications to operate company vehicles.
  • Must meet physical and medical requirements and pass substance abuse screening; as a safety-sensitive employee, will be subject to random substance abuse screening under Company policy.
  • Must satisfactorily complete and pass all training and attend safety meetings and in-service meetings in order to remain qualified.
  • Extensive knowledge of traffic rules and regulations.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to lift and assist passengers when necessary.
  • Must have a high degree of attention and considerable dexterity in the control of vehicles such as sedans, vans, paratransit vans, limousines, taxi-cabs, shuttles, transit buses, school buses, and/or motor coaches.
  • Must practice defensive driving at all times and avoid vehicular and industrial accidents by practicing safe driving and work habits.
  • Compliance with all applicable company, federal, state, county, district, and contract specific Driver requirements.

Note: All interested applicants for a Transit Driver position begin with us as a Driver Trainee. The best-trained drivers in the business work for us because we devote a significant amount of resources, training and development to our employees. Upon successful completion of our training program and successful completion of all necessary requirements for the position, individuals are placed in a Driver role.

We Offer

Physical Health

  • Exceptional Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance benefits

Financial Health

  • Competitive compensation packages
  • 401(k) with 4% employer match
  • Financial Wellness Tool
  • Commuter Benefits

Emotional Health

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • PTO for part-time and full-time positions
  • Paid holidays
  • Pet & Legal Insurance

Personal Development

  • On-the-job training and skills development
  • Internal transfer opportunities for career growth

*Benefits vary by position and location

WeDriveU is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment free of discrimination or harassment where thoughts and ideas of all employees are appreciated and respected. We value excellence and recognize that by respecting the diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives of our workforce, we will sustain a competitive advantage and remain an employer of choice. We also see diversity as more than policies; it is imperative for enabling us to attract, retain and develop the best talent available.


What WeDriveU employees say

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