Vantaggi
This is a great part-time job for someone who is just wanting extra income. The schedule is unique, so it won't work for everyone. People who are university students, stay-at-home moms, retirees, or between jobs tend to find this job suitable. A few things you must know: 1. You have got to have a good driving record. 2. Must pass background check. 3. Must pass drug test and random drug tests. 4. You will be working under union rules. 5. Would be helpful if you like kids. 6. You have to be good at commanding respect. You have up to 71 kids to keep under control while you're busy driving a bus. 7. This is largely a fun job that has its occasional un-fun days. 8. You have to get a Class B CDL with Passenger and School Bus endorsements. 9. Training is provided free, but it is on your own time (unpaid). 10. Management here is friendly and courteous. Always willing to answer questions without being condescending. Most everyone, including other drivers, are kind and helpful if you ever have questions. There is a "ride-along" program for parents who are drivers. Their children may ride the bus with them. This is a great thing which saves daycare expense. A lot of routes have 15-25 minutes layover between them. This is paid time that many drivers enjoy just reading or socializing over coffee at McDonald's.
Svantaggi
The training on one hand is very, very thorough (like learning to drive the bus and inspect it for safe operating condition), but the rest of the training is really lacking. You have to ask questions about everything, and expect that no one told you about some things. Some of the other drivers are rude to their coworkers for some reason, like won't greet or speak to others in the driver's lounge. The job requires working a split shift every day. So, you're working (for instance) 2-3 hours at 6:30 a.m. then you have a few hours off, then are back for 2-3 hours at 2:00 p.m.