Proficient School Bus Driver Job Description

A school bus driver is responsible for transporting students to and from school and school related extracurricular activities. A school bus driver job description requires a commercial driver’s license, excellent vision, quick response time, and the ability to handle any disputes or emergencies that occur on the bus.

Position Description

A school bus driver picks up students at designated bus stops, safely transports students to school, chauffeurs student groups to sporting events and other activities, and maintains the cleanliness, organization, and safety of the bus itself.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of a School Bus Driver

• Picks up students at specified bus stops.
• Ensures that all students are safely and properly seated on the bus.
• Enforces school bus rules and regulations.
• Observes rules of the road and drives with caution.
• Drops students off at school.
• Makes sure all students enter and exit the bus safely.
• Transports student groups to extracurricular activities.
• Makes sure all students are well behaved while on the bus.
• Reports any disciplinary problems to school principal or dean.
• Inspects tire pressures, oil levels, windshield wipers, mirrors, and other details for any problems.
• Brings school bus to mechanic for maintenance as needed.
• Fills bus fuel tank at gas station.
• Ensures that interior and exterior of bus remain clean.
• Provides emergency assistance and aid to students in distress.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates specific knowledge of all rules of the road.
• Possesses knowledge of the layout of the local area including alternate routes to school and activities.
• Possesses a strong sense of direction.
• Demonstrates quick response time.
• Exhibits cautious and responsible driving habits.
• Demonstrates strong leadership skills.
• Possesses excellent vision: at least 20/40 in each eye with solid peripheral vision and depth perception.
• Demonstrates ability to read and interpret maps.
• Can effectively use GPS technology.
• Communicates clearly and effectively with students and school administrators.
• Demonstrates ability to observe a strict schedule to ensure timely pick-ups and drop-offs.
• Possesses knowledge of basic first aid procedures.
• Is capable of acting quickly and calmly in a crisis.
• Demonstrates ability to remain focused and attentive at all times.

Education and Experience

• CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) is required.
• Must successfully pass written, vision, and skills test at DMV.
• First aid training and certification required.
• High school diploma or GED strongly preferred.

Work Environment

• Working hours will be spent on the bus.
• Some time may also be spent in an office on school grounds, waiting for pick-up and drop-off times.
• Road conditions may be hazardous, especially in the event of inclement weather.

Salary

• The average salary for a school bus driver is approximately $30,000 per year.
• The lowest paid individuals make approximately $23,000 per year, while the most established and experienced drivers make up to $45,000 per year.