About this role
Title: Bus Driver, Full Year (40/30 Schedule) POSITION OVERVIEW: Are you looking for a dependable driving position that guarantees year-round hours, 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! If you are a skilled commercial driver seeking predictable schedules, great work-life balance, and summer perks, this is the perfect job for you. TOP PERKS:
• Guaranteed Year-Round Hours: Say goodbye to seasonal layoffs! Enjoy 40 guaranteed hours per week during the school year and 30 guaranteed hours per week during the summer. • 3-Day Summer Weekends: Enjoy your summers! Most positions feature Fridays off during the summer months, giving you extended weekends to relax and recharge. • 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: Full Year • Schedule: Full Time (1.0 FTE) with 30-hour schedule in summer months • Assignment: Permanent • Shift: 1st Shift • Contract: Part of BASE union (see 2026-2029 CBA here) • Wage range: $22.74-$30.62, based on experience • Benefits: Eligible for benefits as outlined here Ready to take the wheel with Portland Public Schools? Apply today to secure guaranteed year-round hours, summer Fridays off, and a career where you truly make a difference! -- 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.