Part-Time School Bus Driver

First Student•Niles, MI

16h•Onsite

About The Position

First Student is hiring a part-time School Bus Driver for Niles Community Schools in Niles, Michigan. 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 prior experience or CDL is required to apply; training and guidance are provided to help qualified candidates obtain the necessary licenses and endorsements. The role involves safely transporting students, supervising boarding and unloading, maintaining order on the bus, inspecting the vehicle, reporting mechanical issues, and communicating with parents, school staff, and dispatch. The position offers a weekday split-shift schedule, with mornings and afternoons, and no required nights, weekends, holidays, or summers. The posting lists pay of $24 per hour, including during training, and a minimum of four paid hours per day. A $1,000 sign-on bonus and separate CLP bonuses are offered subject to stated conditions.

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, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other work communications.
After training, successfully meet the requirements for a Class A or Class B CDL, Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements, and Air Brake Qualification with no restrictions.
Meet DOT physical requirements and Drug & Alcohol Program requirements.
Pass background screening.
Comply with DOT drug-testing requirements for this safety-sensitive position; the posting states that 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, 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 checking 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 (CLP) and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training provided.
Career advancement opportunities into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counseling and support services.
Employee discounts on various products and services.
Guaranteed minimum pay for four hours per day.
Child Ride-Along Program.
Safety or attendance bonuses.
$1,000 sign-on bonus, subject to conditions.
CLP bonus of $750 if obtained within seven days or $250 if obtained within 14 days, subject to conditions.