Bus Driver Jobs in Calgary and other jobs are in huge number in Canada from few decades, If you’re considering a career as a bus driver in Calgary, you’re in the right place. Bus driver jobs offer stability, competitive pay, and the opportunity to serve the community. Whether you’re interested in driving school buses, public transit, or charter buses, Calgary has plenty of opportunities.
This guide covers everything you need to know—from job requirements in Canada and salary expectations to training programs and career growth.
Key Takeaways
- Calgary offers various bus driving opportunities, including public transit, school buses, and charter services.
- Competitive salaries and benefits make bus driving a stable career choice.
- Proper licensing and training are essential for securing a bus driver job.
- Job demand remains strong due to Calgary’s growing population and transportation needs.
- Career advancement opportunities include supervisory roles and specialized driving positions.
Types of Bus Driver Jobs in Calgary
1. Public Transit Bus Drivers (Calgary Transit)
Calgary Transit is the city’s primary public transportation provider, operating buses and light rail transit (LRT). Drivers ensure safe and timely passenger transport across the city.
Requirements:
- Class 2 Alberta driver’s license with air brake endorsement
- Clean driving record
- Customer service skills
2. School Bus Driver Jobs in Calgary
School bus drivers transport students to and from schools, requiring extra safety certifications.
Requirements:
- Class 2 license with School Bus (S) endorsement
- First Aid certification
- Criminal record check
3. Charter & Tour Bus Drivers
Charter companies hire drivers for private tours, corporate events, and airport shuttles.
Requirements:
- Class 2 or Class 4 license (depending on vehicle size)
- Hospitality and customer service experience
How to get a Bus Driver Jobs in Calgary
Step 1: Obtain the Right License
- Class 2 License: Required for buses with more than 24 passengers.
- Class 4 License: Needed for smaller buses (up to 24 passengers).
- Air Brake (Q) Endorsement: Mandatory for most bus driving jobs.
Step 2: Complete Training Programs
Many employers provide training, but you can also enroll in private driving schools like:
- Alberta Motor Association (AMA)
- Western Canada Bus Training
Step 3: Gain Experience
Start with part-time or seasonal roles (e.g., school bus driving) before transitioning to full-time positions.
Step 4: Apply for Jobs
Check job boards like:
- Indeed
- Calgary Transit Careers
- Corp to corp
- School bus operator websites (e.g., First Student, Southland Transportation)
Salary & Benefits for Bus Drivers in Calgary
Bus drivers in Calgary earn competitive wages:
- Public Transit Drivers: 25–25–35 per hour
- School Bus Drivers: 18–18–25 per hour
- Charter/Tour Bus Drivers: 20–20–30 per hour
Additional Benefits:
- Health & dental insurance
- Pension plans (for public transit roles)
- Paid training & overtime opportunities
Job Outlook & Career Growth
Calgary’s expanding population ensures steady demand for bus drivers. Career advancement options include:
- Supervisory roles (e.g., dispatcher, operations manager)
- Specialized driving (e.g., accessible transit, airport shuttles)
- Training instructor roles
Final Thoughts
Bus driver jobs in Calgary provide a rewarding career with job security and growth potential. Whether you choose public transit, school buses, or charter services, obtaining the right license and training is key.
Start your journey today by researching job openings and enrolling in a certified training program. With Calgary’s growing transportation needs, now is a great time to hit the road as a professional bus driver.
FAQs
What license do I need to drive a bus in Calgary?
You’ll need a Class 2 or Class 4 license, depending on the bus size, plus an air brake endorsement.
How long does bus driver training take?
Training typically takes 2–6 weeks, depending on the program and license requirements.
Is prior experience required for bus driver jobs?
Some employers hire entry-level drivers, while others prefer 1–2 years of commercial driving experience.
What is the average salary for bus drivers in Calgary?
Most bus drivers earn 20–20–35 per hour, with public transit roles offering the highest pay.
Are there part-time bus driving jobs available?
Yes! School bus and charter companies often hire part-time and seasonal drivers.