A Bus Driver drives buses and transport passengers along a designated route. Works for a city public transit system, regional bus company, or school district.
The Field Trip School Bus Driver is responsible for safely transporting students, teachers, chaperones, and other authorized passengers to and from field trips, athletic events, extracurricular activities, and school-sponsored programs. This role requires safe driving, dependable attendance, professional conduct, and compliance with all transportation laws and school district policies.
Key Responsibilities:
Operate school buses safely on assigned routes and field trip schedules. Complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections, reporting mechanical or safety concerns promptly. Follow planned routes and schedules while adapting responsibly to traffic, weather, road closures, and trip changes. Verify passenger counts before departure and at designated stops. Maintain student safety and order by enforcing bus rules and working with teachers or chaperones. Assist passengers with boarding and exiting, including students with disabilities when required. Ensure the bus is fully checked after every trip so no passenger or personal item is left behind. Communicate professionally with school staff, students, parents, dispatchers, and transportation supervisors. Respond appropriately to emergencies, accidents, breakdowns, or student medical needs. Maintain required records, including inspection forms, mileage logs, trip sheets, fuel records, and incident reports. Keep the bus clean and orderly before, during, and after assignments. Comply with all applicable laws and policies, including traffic regulations, licensing requirements, and drug and alcohol testing programs.
Minimum Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with required school bus and passenger endorsements. Current medical certification and any state-required school bus driver credentials. Acceptable driving record and ability to pass criminal background and motor vehicle record checks. Ability to pass required drug and alcohol screenings. Knowledge of safe driving practices, passenger management, and emergency procedures. Ability to read maps, follow navigation instructions, and communicate clearly. Availability for early mornings, evenings, weekends, and variable field trip schedules. Preferred Qualifications Previous experience driving a school bus or commercial passenger vehicle. Experience working with children or in a school environment. Current CPR and first aid certification. Familiarity with local roads, schools, event venues, and regional destinations.
Skills and Competencies:
Safety awareness Dependability and punctuality Sound judgment Calmness under pressure Professional communication Student behavior management Attention to detail Customer service
Physical Requirements:
Ability to sit and operate a school bus for extended periods. Ability to repeatedly enter and exit the bus using steps. Ability to inspect the interior, exterior, tires, lights, and emergency equipment. Ability to assist passengers during routine operations and emergencies. Ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to work in varying traffic, weather, and temperature conditions.
Work Schedule:
This is a part-time, on-call, or supplemental position based on field trip demand. Hours may include weekdays, evenings, weekends, holidays, overnight trips, and periods of waiting at destinations.
