School Bus Driver

First Student•Waterford, CT

17d•Onsite

About The Position

First Student is hiring part-time School Bus Drivers in Waterford, Connecticut. Drivers pick students up in the morning, transport them safely to school, and bring them home in the afternoon. Additional hours may be available for field trips and special events. No prior experience is necessary; the company provides training and guidance, including Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training. The role offers split weekday shifts for morning and afternoon routes, with no required nights, weekends, holidays, or summers. Pay is $16.94 per hour during training, then $29.00 per hour after training; drivers with at least one year of CDL driving experience receive $33.00 per hour after training. Employees are guaranteed a minimum of five paid hours per day. This safety-sensitive role is subject to DOT drug testing and requires English proficiency for training, safety communications, policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications.

Requirements

Be at least 21 years old.
Have held a valid driver’s license for at least three years.
Have English proficiency for required training and job-related communications.
Comply with DOT drug testing requirements for safety-sensitive employees.

Nice To Haves

A valid Class B license.
At least one year of CDL driving experience; this qualifies for the stated $33.00 hourly rate after training.
Driving experience with rideshare companies or taxi services.
Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service 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, including checks of brakes, lights, tires, and emergency exits.
Promptly report mechanical issues and keep the bus clean and sanitary.
Follow 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.
Commercial Learner’s Permit and Commercial Driver’s License training provided.
Flexible part-time schedule with weekday split shifts.
Career advancement opportunities in operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles.
Employee Assistance Program with counseling and support services.
Employee discounts on various products and services.
Guaranteed minimum pay for five hours per day.
Child Ride-Along Program.
Additional hours may be available for field trips and special events.