Bus Driver, School Year

Portland Public Schools Co; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 31,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Predictable schedules

Overtime eligible

Union representation

Meaningful community work

Job summary

Portland Public Schools is hiring School Bus Drivers for school-year positions to provide safe, reliable student transportation on set routes. This role emphasizes stable daily schedules and meaningful service to the local community, with overtime opportunities for athletic trips and field trips.

The driver will transport students to and from school, participate in field trips and athletic events, and assist with wheelchairs or medical equipment as needed, while maintaining vehicle safety and a

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Strong communication and student-focused approach.
• Ability to maintain discipline courteously and effectively.

Responsibilities

• Transport students to and from school on assigned routes and schedules.
• Assist with field trips, athletics, and other activities.
• Safely transport students in wheelchairs or with medical equipment as needed.
• Perform pre- and post-trip safety inspections and keep the bus clean.
• Foster a positive, respectful atmosphere on the bus.

Skills

Student focus

Communication skills

Discipline management

Education

High School or GED diploma

Job description

Bus Driver, School Year

Are you looking for a dependable driving position that offers incredible work-life balance and directly serves your local community? Portland Public Schools is hiring School Bus Drivers to join our dedicated Operations team in school-year positions! If you are a skilled commercial driver seeking predictable schedules and great work-life balance, this is the perfect job for you.

Top Perks

• Predictable, Consistent Schedules: Enjoy regular daily routes and schedules, bringing stability to your routine.
• Extra Earning Potential: Position is overtime eligible, allowing you to boost your earnings by taking on athletic trips and field trip opportunities.
• Union Representation: Benefit from a structured, represented pay plan and strong workplace advocacy.
• Meaningful Community Work: Serve as a vital extension of the classroom, creating a safe, welcoming, and positive environment for Portland's students every day.

Responsibilities

• Student Transportation: Safely and efficiently transport children to and from school following assigned routes and schedules.
• Field Trips & Athletics: Transport students on exciting field trips, outings, and athletic events.
• Inclusive Care: Safely transport students in wheelchairs and medical apparatus as needed, ensuring all students are assisted with care.
• Vehicle Care: Perform standard pre- and post-trip safety inspections, maintain vehicle cleanliness, and report mechanical needs to the shop.
• Positive Culture: Maintain effective control and a positive, pleasant atmosphere aboard the bus, working harmoniously with students, school staff, and parents.

Qualifications

• Licensure: Valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Air Brake, Passenger, and School Bus (S) endorsements.
• Background Check: CHRC authorization through the Maine Department of Education (cost is $70 - more info here)
• Driving Record: Satisfactory driving history, with no convictions for a felony, no convictions for operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, no more than 2 moving violations in the past 24 months
• Experience: Two to four years of driving experience; prior experience as a school bus driver preferred
• Education: High School or GED diploma required
• Physical Capability: Ability to pass required physical exams and lift a minimum of 50 lbs
• Student Focus: Strong communication skills and the ability to maintain discipline courteously and effectively
• Bonus Qualifications: First Aid and CPR certifications are highly desirable

Employment Details

• Calendar: School Year
• Schedule: Full Time (1.0 FTE)
• Assignment: Permanent
• Shift: 1st Shift
• Contract: Part of BASE union (see 2026-2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement here)
• Wage range: $22.74-$30.62, based on experience as outlined in CBA above
• Benefits: Eligible for benefits as outlined here

Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.