School Bus Driver

First Student•Skokie, IL

11d•Onsite

About The Position

First Student is hiring part-time School Bus Drivers in Skokie, Illinois. Drivers pick up students in the morning, transport them safely to school, and take them home in the afternoon. Additional hours may be available for field trips and special events. No prior experience or CDL is required to apply; qualified candidates receive training and guidance to earn the required licenses and endorsements. The role requires English proficiency for training, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications. The position offers an hourly rate of $27.00, with a training rate of $17.00, and a guaranteed minimum of four paid hours per day. Pay depends on experience and qualifications. A $2,000 sign-on bonus is offered, subject to conditions. A Commercial Learner’s Permit bonus may also be available under stated conditions. The schedule is part-time, with flexible split shifts for morning and afternoon routes on weekdays. Nights, weekends, holidays, and summers are not required. The role is subject to DOT drug testing and other applicable safety-sensitive requirements. After training, candidates must meet requirements that include a Class A or Class B CDL, Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements, air-brake qualification without restrictions, DOT physical requirements, drug and alcohol program requirements, and background screening. The company describes opportunities for advancement into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles.

Requirements

Be at least 21 years old.
Have held a valid driver’s license for at least three years.
Demonstrate English proficiency for job-related training and communications.
After training, meet the required licensing and qualification requirements: Class A or Class B CDL, Passenger (P) and School Bus endorsements, and air-brake qualification without restrictions.
Meet DOT physical requirements, drug and alcohol program requirements, and background screening requirements.
Undergo DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee; the posting states that DOT regulations do not authorize Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.

Nice To Haves

Experience driving for ride-share companies or taxi services.
Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate.
A valid Class B license.

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.
Follow traffic laws and company safety standards.
Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch regarding student behavior or delays.
Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

Benefits

$2,000 sign-on bonus, subject to conditions.
Hourly rate of $27.00 and training rate of $17.00; pay depends on experience and qualifications.
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.
Part-time flexible schedule with split shifts and weekdays-only routes; no nights, weekends, holidays, or summers required.
Career advancement opportunities in operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles.
Employee Assistance Program with counseling and support services.
Employee discount program.
Guaranteed minimum pay for four hours per day.
Commercial Learner’s Permit bonus may be available subject to conditions.