School Bus Driver

Position Overview

Part‑Time School Bus Driver – Ames, IA. Starting wage $22.37/hr, $14.48/hr for monitors. Sign‑On Bonus $3,000*.

• Safely transport students to and from school and activities, including morning pickup and afternoon drop‑off.
• Assist boarding and unloading, help students with seatbelts and mobility aids.
• Maintain order on the bus to prevent distractions.
• Conduct pre‑trip and post‑trip inspections (brakes, lights, tires, emergency exits).
• Report mechanical issues promptly and keep the bus clean and sanitary.
• Obey all traffic laws and company safety standards.
• Communicate with parents, school staff, and dispatch about student behavior or delays.
• Demonstrate leadership and customer service skills.

• At least 21 years old.
• Valid driver’s license for at least 3 years.
• Interested in a part‑time schedule with summers off.
• Enjoy working with students.

• Pay details depend on experience and qualifications.
• Hourly rate $22.37–$26.00 per hour (drivers); $14.48 per hour (monitors).
• Training rate $16.00.
• Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training provided.
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance or coverage options.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Part‑time flexible schedule: split shifts (AM/PM routes), weekdays only; no nights, weekends, holidays, or summers required.
• Career advancement opportunities into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles.
• Employee assistance program (EAP) for counseling and support.
• Community impact and employee discount program.
• Guaranteed minimum hours: 4 hours per day at minimum.
• Child ride‑along program for working parents.
• Safety or attendance bonuses.
• Commercial Learner’s Permit bonus.

This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety‑sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. First is also committed to providing a drug‑free workplace. First will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, and any other fair chance law.