Driver Jobs in Downey, CA

School Bus Driver (Permanent & Substitute)

Status: Open Until Filled

Make a Real Difference in Students' Lives Every Day

We are seeking skilled professional driversand those with the drive to learnfor a rewarding career where safety meets community impact.

We are currently hiring for multiple needs:

1. Permanent Positions

• Schedule: 10 Calendar Months (August June)
• Hours: 5 Hours Per Day
• Benefits: Eligible for pro-rated benefits

2. Substitute Positions

• Schedule: On-Call / Flexible coverage for routes and field trips.

3. District Bus Driver Training Class (Aspiring Drivers)

• Do not possess a Commercial License yet? Apply anyway!
• We are actively recruiting candidates for our District Bus Driver Training Class. If you meet the general requirements but lack the Class B CDL or California School Bus Driver Certificate, please still submit an application. This will serve as your expression of interest in our upcoming training cohort to help you get qualified.

Drive state-of-the-art school buses, ensuring students arrive safely and on time. Work under our Transportation Manager's guidance while maintaining the highest safety standards and creating a positive environment for student passengers.

Why This Role Matters

• Be a Safety Guardian: Your expertise protects our most precious cargo.
• Positive Role Model: You are often the first friendly face students see each morning.
• Specialized Professional: A role that rewards skill and responsibility.
• Direct Student Impact: Make a tangible difference in young lives daily.

What Makes This Position Unique

You are on the front lines with students. You will combine advanced driving expertise with student supervisiona skilled professional who bridges transportation safety and educational support.

Your Leadership Role

• Maintain order and appropriate behavior on your bus.
• Provide crucial direction during emergencies.
• Serve as a calm, authoritative presence during field trips.
• Exercise professional judgment and quick thinking.

Perfect For...

• Experienced Commercial Drivers who want meaningful work that uses their professional skills while making a positive impact on student success.
• Future Professionals looking to enter a stable career path through our District Training Class.

Ready to combine your driving expertiseor your desire to learnwith rewarding community service?

Apply Now

Examples of Duties

Your Daily Responsibilities

-Safe Transportation Operations

• Navigate designated routes with precision timing
• Execute legal and defensive driving practices
• Ensure full compliance with traffic and student transportation regulations

-Student Safety & Supervision

• Maintain positive order and discipline following District policies
• Monitor safe street crossings and boarding procedures
• Assist special education students with specialized care protocols
• Handle emergency situations and administer first aid when needed

-Vehicle Maintenance & Safety

• Conduct thorough daily safety inspections (brakes, lights, doors, mirrors)
• Maintain clean, safe bus conditions inside and out
• Monitor fluid levels, tire pressure, and mechanical functions
• Perform post-trip inspections to ensure no passengers remain aboard

-Special Activities & Events

• Transport students and faculty to field trips, sports events, and activities
• Load/unload luggage and equipment as needed
• Meet precise departure and arrival schedules

-Communication & Documentation

• Maintain detailed records, logs, and inspection reports
• Communicate effectively with parents, District personnel, and students
• Conduct evacuation drills and safety training with students
• Use two-way radio and communication technologies

What You Bring to the Team

-Professional Expertise:

• Safe and defensive driving mastery
• Knowledge of traffic laws and student transportation regulations
• School bus operation expertise
• First aid and emergency response capabilities

-Essential Skills:

• Student management and discipline techniques
• Strong interpersonal communication (all ages and abilities)
• Detail-oriented record-keeping and reporting
• Ability to follow complex routes and meet tight schedules
• Patience, tact, and professional courtesy

-Technical Abilities:

• Vehicle maintenance and safety inspection proficiency
• Two-way radio and communication equipment operation
• Quick decision-making in emergency situations
• Physical capability for equipment handling and student assistance

Typical Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

-Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 6 months driving buses or commercial vehicles
• Preferred: Experience transporting school-aged children
• Alternative: District-approved training program may substitute for experience

-Required Licenses & Certifications

• Valid California Class B CDL with passenger and air brake endorsements
• California School Bus Driver Certificate
• First Aid & CPR certification (must obtain within 6 months of hire)
• Medical Examiner's Certificate (renewed every 2 years; annually if 65+)

Preferred Qualifications

• Mountain Driver Certification
• Bilingual English-Spanish ability

-Ongoing Requirements

• Maintain clean, satisfactory driving record
• Maintain insurability status
• Keep all certifications current throughout employment

Supplemental Information

Work Environment

• Primary: School bus cabin and outdoor locations
• Weather: All-season driving including adverse conditions
• Exposure: Vehicle fumes, dust, cleaning chemicals, and maintenance oils
• Safety: Traffic hazards and emergency response situations
• Students: Various behavior levels and noise environments
• Equipment: Ladder work for inspections and maintenance

-Physical Demands

• Sitting: Extended periods while operating vehicles
• Lifting: Up to 50 lbs (equipment, luggage, supplies)
• Mobility: Climbing steps/ladders, bending, kneeling, crouching
• Dexterity: Reaching, pulling, pushing (doors, controls, overhead compartments)
• Senses: Clear vision for safe driving and student monitoring
• Communication: Speaking and hearing for passenger interaction and radio use

This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy active, varied