Licensed Bus Driver 2026/27 - Bend

Bend-La Pine Schools; Bend (OR); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Bend-La Pine Schools is hiring a Bus Driver to ensure the safe transportation of students. Responsibilities include operating the school bus, conducting pre-trip inspections, and maintaining cleanliness and order on the bus.

The ideal candidate will have a valid Oregon Class B Commercial driver's license and a high school diploma. This position requires adherence to district policies, and safety is always the top priority.

Join us in fostering a safe and respectful environment for our students!

Qualifications

• High school diploma required.
• Valid Oregon Class B Commercial driver's license.
• No prior work experience needed but training required.

Responsibilities

• Operate school bus safely under all conditions.
• Conduct pre-trip inspections and report deficiencies.
• Maintain a clean and orderly atmosphere on the bus.

Skills

Safe driving techniques

Knowledge of Oregon laws

Defensive driving techniques

Emergency procedures

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Oregon Class B Commercial driver's license

Job description

Bend, Oregon 97703
Bend-La Pine Schools is committed to the principle of equity. Equity supersedes the notion of equality, where all are treated the same. Pursuing equity requires the removal of barriers and the promotion of inclusive practices so that all students fully benefit. The principle of equity will inform all BLS policies, regulations, programs, operations, practices, and resource allocations.

Position Title

BUS DRIVER - REGULAR

Department

Transportation

Reports To

Transportation Director

Job Definition

Under general supervision, the School Bus Driver operates school buses and/or other District vehicles to transport children to and from school and related activities in a safe, timely and economical manner. Duties include cleaning of buses and inspecting the vehicle to insure safe operation. Safety and welfare of the students is always the top priority.

Essential Job Functions

• Operate the vehicle in accordance with Oregon Revised Statutes, Department of Motor Vehicle Code, School Bus Driver's Manual, and District policies.
• Attend all meetings and seminars scheduled by supervisor.
• Maintain a neat, clean, and courteous presence while on duty.
• Report immediately any mechanical trouble, tire problems, inoperable safety equipment, or other questionable items to supervisor or the District mechanic.
• Assume responsibility for transporting school-age children safely under all conditions.
• Apply energy conservation and maintain cost effectiveness while operating a school bus.
• Conduct pre-trip inspection of the vehicle and report any deficiencies in equipment to the proper authority immediately.
• Maintain the assigned vehicle by cleaning items such as windshield (inside and outside), mirrors, light lenses, floors, and seats.
• Report any problems or safety hazards on routing, such as traffic, stops, physical barriers, and student behavior.
• Maintain a current and correct route schedule — stops and times.
• Greet students in a pleasant and friendly manner at bus stops.
• Maintain a safe, orderly atmosphere on the bus at all times by seeking compliance with District policies through persuasion, verbal warnings, or completing discipline slips.
• Administer first aid as required and take immediate emergency action in serious illnesses.
• Complete daily maintenance checklist accurately as appropriate.
• Exercise good judgment and discretion in operating a vehicle in all weather and traffic conditions.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned.
• Fulfill performance standards identified in the evaluation process.
• Fulfill working conditions and physical effort listed below.

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily in a school bus environment and may include pre- and post-route responsibilities conducted indoors or outdoors in varying weather conditions. The position requires prolonged sitting, frequent use of foot and hand controls, steering, reaching, bending, and occasional lifting of items such as student belongings or safety equipment. The employee is responsible for the safe transportation of students and may be exposed to varying traffic conditions, weather extremes, noise, and student behaviors while operating a commercial vehicle. The role requires sustained attention, visual and auditory awareness, and the ability to respond calmly and effectively in emergency or high-stress situations. Work schedules may include early morning, afternoon, evening, or field trip routes, and may vary based on district needs. The employee must maintain required licensure and certifications and must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Laws, rules and regulations governing school transportation.
• Safe driving techniques and motor vehicle laws.
• Operation of a school bus.
• Proper procedures to follow in case of an emergency.
• Defensive driving techniques.

Skills and Abilities

• Possess an appropriate valid Oregon Class B Commercial driver's license issued by the State of Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles.
• Possess a driving record that conforms to the requirements of the State Department of Education for the issue of a School Bus Driver's Certificate.
• Successfully pass a medical examination for School Bus Driver.
• Participate in School Bus Driver’s Training Program.
• Successfully complete defensive driving training.
• Successfully complete classroom and on-the-road vehicle operation training.
• Successfully complete first aid training.
• Successfully complete and apply in-service training practices.
• Read, understand, and apply written instructions found in route books and District policies and procedures.
• Relate to students in a pleasant, courteous, and friendly manner.
• Maintain a safe driving record with District or personal vehicles.
• Adhere to the district requirements for a drug-free workplace.
• Possess a valid Oregon Driver’s License and maintain an insurable status for automobile liability and coverage.
• Ability to exit from an emergency door opening of 24x48 inches at least 42 inches from the ground in 10 seconds or less.

Education and Experience

High school diploma. Basic ability to use grammar, spelling, punctuation, fractions, decimals, and commercial arithmetic is required. This position requires no prior work experience. General knowledge of some technical procedures or work activity. Working knowledge of School District practices or basic policies may be necessary. Job proficiency can be acquired in six months to one year.

Certification and Licensing

• Possess an appropriate valid Oregon Class B Commercial driver's license issued by the State of Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles and maintain an insurable status for automobile and liability coverage.
• Possess a driving record that conforms to the requirements of the State Department of Education for the issue of a School Bus Driver's Certificate.
• Possess a current First Aid card.

Expectations of Professional Conduct

Employees of Bend-La Pine Schools are expected to adhere to all Bend-La Pine Schools policies and regulations, ensuring compliance with established procedures and expectations. They are to prioritize the well-being of students, aligning their conduct with the core values of public education and the mission, vision, and goals of Bend-La Pine Schools. This includes maintaining consistent and punctual attendance, adhering to site and/or district protocols for reporting absences, maintaining appropriate attire and grooming, communicating respectfully with students, parents, guardians, the public, and colleagues, and respecting cultural and background differences. Employees are entrusted with fostering a respectful working and learning environment and upholding confidentiality regarding student, staff, and district information at all times.

Pay and Representation

The position’s pay is annualized to include summer months. This position is currently represented by the Oregon School Employees Association, Chapter No. 6.