School Bus Driver

First Student•Wheeling, IL

About The Position

First Student is hiring part-time School Bus Drivers in Wheeling, Illinois. Drivers pick up students in the morning and transport them home in the afternoon, with possible additional hours for field trips and special events. No previous experience or CDL is required to apply; training and guidance are provided to help qualified candidates earn the licenses and endorsements needed for the role. The position is subject to DOT drug testing and requires English proficiency for training, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications. The role offers a split-shift weekday schedule, with no required nights, weekends, holidays, or summers. Drivers are guaranteed a minimum of four paid hours per day. The listed hourly rate is $29.00, with a training rate of $17.00; pay depends on experience and qualifications. A $2,000 sign-on bonus is advertised, subject to conditions. Additional CLP bonuses may be available based on when the permit is presented after the virtual CLP class. After training, candidates must meet requirements that include a Class A or Class B CDL, Passenger and School Bus endorsements, an unrestricted air-brake qualification, DOT physical requirements, drug and alcohol program requirements, and background screening. The position includes transporting and supervising students, maintaining vehicle safety and cleanliness, and communicating with families, school personnel, and dispatch.

Requirements

Be at least 21 years old.
Have held a valid driver's license for at least three years.
Be proficient in English for required training, safety communications, policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications.
After training, obtain a Class A or Class B CDL.
After training, obtain Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements.
After training, meet the air-brake qualification requirement with no restrictions.
Meet DOT physical requirements.
Meet drug and alcohol program requirements, including DOT drug testing.
Pass background screening.

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.
Promptly report mechanical issues 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

Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance or coverage options.
401(k) retirement plan with company match.
Flexible part-time schedule with weekday split shifts and summers off.
Commercial Learner's Permit and Commercial Driver's License training provided.
Career advancement opportunities in operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles.
Employee Assistance Program offering counseling and support for personal and work-related issues.
Employee discount program.
Guaranteed minimum pay for four hours per day.
$2,000 sign-on bonus, subject to conditions.
CLP bonus of $750 if the CLP is completed and presented within seven days of completing the virtual CLP class, or $250 if presented within 14 days.