School Bus Driver

About the role

The Personnel Commission announces an open and promotional recruitment to establish an integrated eligibility list for multiple School Bus Driver positions in the Transportation Department. The list will be active for one year or until canceled. Promotional candidates receive seniority points (.25 point per year of classified service, up to 5 points) added to final passing scores.

Positions are 7 hours per day, 11 months per year.

Requirements

Training and Experience

• Any combination of education, training, and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and one year experience in the operation of a motor vehicle.

Licenses and Certificates

• Valid California Driver's License Class A or B with passenger and air brake endorsements.
• Valid California School Bus Driver Certificate.
• Valid Medical Certificate approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles or the Federal Highway Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Knowledge

• Proper operations of school buses.
• Safe and defensive driving methods and techniques.
• All applicable provisions of the California Vehicle Code, Code of Regulations, and Education Code.
• Various mechanical characteristics of buses.
• School district geographical area.
• Applicable District and site policies, procedures, and objectives of assigned program and activities.
• Proper operation of two-way radios.
• Applicable health and safety regulations, safety precautions, and procedures.
• Basic first aid procedures.
• Oral and written communication skills.
• Proper lifting techniques.
• Basic record-keeping techniques.
• Basic computer skills.
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.

Abilities

• Drive a school bus safely and efficiently.
• Learn and observe legal and defensive driving practices.
• Learn and follow designated routes.
• Maintain a safe discipline level among passengers.
• Conduct safety inspections and perform routine preventative maintenance.
• Maintain bus in clean and safe working condition.
• Prepare and maintain simple records and reports.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
• Assist in loading and unloading students, as necessary.
• Operate a two-way radio.
• Meet schedules and timelines.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Understand, follow, and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Communicate with diverse groups and individuals.

Benefits & Incentives

Licensed School Bus Drivers

Candidates who possess a California Class B Driver's License and a valid School Bus Driver Certificate.

• Initial salary placement at least Step 3, Salary Range 22.
• $3,000 hiring incentive paid in installments: $1,500 in the month following completion of probation; $1,500 in the month following the first anniversary. Incentive offered until June 2027.

School Bus Driver Trainees

Candidates who do not possess the required licenses and need to complete training.

• Opportunity to apply for a Sub Van Driver position and train around work schedule.
• Classroom Training stipend: $400 (paid the month after receiving DMV permit).
• Behind-the-Wheel Training stipend: $400 (paid the month after passing the CHP School Bus Driver Drive Test).
• $3,000 hiring incentive paid in installments (same schedule as licensed drivers) upon becoming licensed.

Schedule

7 hours per day, 11 months per year.

Pay

Salary Range 22; licensed drivers placed at minimum Step 3.

Selection Process

• Applications accepted online only via Edjoin.org (paper applications no longer accepted as of January 1, 2024).
• Written testing by invitation only; invited candidates notified by email approximately 7–14 calendar days after the filing deadline.
• Special testing accommodations must be requested at time of application.