School Bus Driver- Wolf Lake, IL

First Student•Scott City, MO

6d•Onsite

About The Position

First Student is hiring part-time School Bus Drivers in Wolf Lake, Illinois. Drivers pick students up in the morning and transport them home in the afternoon, with possible additional hours for field trips and special events. No prior experience or CDL is required to apply; qualified candidates receive training and guidance to obtain the licenses and endorsements required for the role. The position has a flexible split-shift schedule on weekdays, with summers off and no required nights, weekends, or holidays. The role requires English proficiency and is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive position.

Requirements

Be at least 21 years old.
Have held a valid driver's license for at least 3 years.
Be proficient in English.
After training, successfully meet requirements for a Class A or Class B CDL, Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements, Air Brake Qualification with no restrictions, DOT physical requirements, drug and alcohol program requirements, and background screening.
Comply with DOT drug-testing requirements; DOT regulations do not authorize Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.

Nice To Haves

Valid Class B License.
Driving experience with rideshare companies or taxi services.
Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, customer service associate, or retail associate.
Enjoy working with students.

Responsibilities

Safely transport students to and from school and activities.
Supervise students boarding and unloading at stops, and assist with seatbelts and mobility aids.
Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions.
Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of brakes, lights, tires, and emergency exits.
Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the bus clean and sanitary.
Obey traffic laws and company safety standards.
Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.
Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

Benefits

Hourly pay of $16.50–$18.00, depending on experience and qualifications.
Training pay of $15.00 per hour after obtaining a permit.
Commercial Learner's Permit and Commercial Driver's License training provided.
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance or coverage options.
401(k) retirement plan with company match.
Flexible part-time schedule with weekday AM/PM split shifts; no required nights, weekends, holidays, or summers.
Career advancement opportunities across more than 540 locations in the U.S. and Canada.
Employee Assistance Program offering counseling and support services.
Employee discounts on various products and services.
Guaranteed pay for 4 hours per school day when both AM and PM routes are driven.
Child Ride-Along Program.
Commercial Learner's Permit bonus of $750 if the permit is presented within 7 days of completing the virtual CLP class, or $250 if presented within 14 days; offer effective until 11/30/2026.