School Van Driver

School Van Drivers

Lewis Central Community School District is seeking school van drivers for the 2026–2027 school year. Fully licensed and trained van drivers start at $15.75, with consideration for prior relevant driving experience. Training is provided for applicants who do not yet meet the requirements for driving a school van. Van driver trainees receive a training wage and a pay increase upon successful completion.

Driver trainee applicants must have a Class D Chauffeur's License before they can begin training. A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a School Bus (S) endorsement will also meet this requirement. More information is available through the Iowa DOT here: Iowa DOT License Types.

Job Title: Van Driver

Department: Operations – Transportation

Supervisor: Transportation Director

Classification: Classified – Part-Time School-Year

FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt

Last Updated: June 9, 2026

Summary

Operates district vans and other light-duty transportation vehicles safely and efficiently to transport students to and from school, programs, and activities. Ensures compliance with all applicable federal, State of Iowa, and district transportation regulations while maintaining a safe, orderly, and respectful environment for students.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Reports to work on a regular and reliable basis.
• Safely operates a school van or other assigned district vehicle on designated routes and for extracurricular trips in accordance with all traffic laws, State of Iowa regulations, and district policies.
• Conducts required pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure the vehicle is in safe operating condition and reports concerns promptly.
• Maintains order and appropriate student behavior while transporting students; assumes responsibility for student supervision during transport.
• Communicates student behavior concerns to appropriate school staff in accordance with district procedures.
• Follows assigned routes and schedules, adjusting as necessary for weather, road, or operational conditions.
• Ensures student safety during loading and unloading, including proper supervision and adherence to district procedures.
• Maintains accurate records such as student counts, mileage, inspections, and incident reports.
• Participates in required training, including safety procedures, emergency response, and district transportation protocols.
• Maintains cleanliness and basic upkeep of the assigned vehicle.
• Communicates effectively with students, parents, school staff, and transportation personnel.
• Reports accidents, incidents, or unsafe conditions immediately and follows proper procedures.
• May assist with transporting students with special needs and use specialized equipment when trained.
• Follows the district's Drug and Alcohol Testing Program when applicable to the position.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Education and/or Experience

A combination of relevant education and experience may be considered.

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Must possess or obtain:
  • Valid Iowa Driver's License with a clean driving record
  • Chauffeur Class D License Type
• CDL may not be required depending on vehicle size and passenger capacity.
• Must meet all state and federal background check requirements.
• Experience working with children preferred.

The district may provide training to assist in meeting position requirements.

Hours/Schedule:

• The position is guaranteed 5 hours of pay per day with up to 7 hours per day depending on student transportation needs.
• This position is expected to work all days students are in session and require transportation to and from school (approximately 177 student days).
• Occasional transportation meetings, trainings, or requirements outside of regular hours may be necessary and will be paid unless noted otherwise.

Rate of pay:

• The hourly rate of pay starts at $15.00 for those who do not have a school bus authorization through the Department of Education (DOE).
• Additional compensation opportunities:
  • $0.10-$0.20 more per hour for prior driving experience (up to 5 years max).
  • $0.75 per hour for possessing a school bus authorization through the Iowa Department of Education (DOE).
• Your starting rate will be determined by the Business Office/HR after submitting your application and current qualifications.

Benefits:

• Since this is a part-time, school-year position, it is not eligible for health or dental benefits.
• Life insurance benefit of $20,000 at no cost to you.
• Enrollment in IPERS (Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System) starting on your first day:
  • District contributes 9.44% of your wages.
  • You contribute 6.29% of your wages.

Paid Leave:

• 2 paid personal days each school year (prorated based on start date).
• Paid sick leave based on years of service (10 days in your first year, prorated based on start date).
• This position is not eligible for paid vacation leave.

Paid Holidays:

• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day
• New Year's Day
• Memorial Day