A leading passenger transport company in Aotearoa New Zealand is searching for a school bus driver to join their team in Rodney, working out of the Leabourn Depot in Wellsford. This casual role is perfect for someone who enjoys driving, being out in the community, and transporting children safely to and from school. You will work school bus hours before and after school, with the opportunity to pick up extra work doing charters when required. School holidays are generally off except for occasional training or development days. If you hold a full Class 2 NZ driver’s licence and a P endorsement, are reliable, a good communicator, and take pride in your appearance, this position offers a friendly team environment, uniform, fortnightly pay, and career progression opportunities. The primary keyword school bus driver appears naturally here because that is exactly who we need.
About the Company
Ritchies is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading passenger transport companies with a team of more than 2,000 people providing coach and charter services right across the country. They partner with regional councils and schools to supply public transport services as well as offering a range of bus and coach hire services to businesses and the general public. You would be joining at an exciting time in Ritchies’ history as they gear up to decarbonise their fleet and move to a more sustainable public transport model. The company focuses heavily on health and safety and is an equal opportunities employer.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive a school bus on designated routes before and after school hours, transporting children safely between home and school.
- Follow all traffic laws and company safety protocols, ensuring the wellbeing of all passengers.
- Perform pre trip and post trip vehicle inspections, reporting any maintenance issues immediately.
- Communicate effectively with children, parents, and school staff, demonstrating patience and professionalism.
- Pick up extra charter work when required, providing transport for events or group outings.
- Attend ongoing training and development sessions during school holidays as needed.
- Maintain a clean and professional appearance, wearing the provided uniform at all times while on duty.
What You Need to Qualify
A full Class 2 NZ driver’s licence is the minimum requirement. You must hold a P endorsement, which allows you to carry passengers. Reliability and good communication skills are essential. You must be a safe operator who takes pride in their appearance and understands the importance of patience when dealing with children. You must be willing to undergo pre employment checks including drug testing, Ministry of Justice checks, reference checking, and a VCA (Vulnerable Children Act) check. A medical assessment is also required as per regulations. You must have the right to work in New Zealand at the time of application. No prior bus driving experience is necessary as training is provided, but a clean driving record is preferred.
Salary and Benefits
The hourly rate for this casual School Bus Driver position ranges from 25 to 30 New Zealand dollars per hour based on experience and the specific assignment, which aligns with current market rates for school bus drivers in the Rodney area. Casual status means you work on an as needed basis, primarily during school terms. You will receive fortnightly pay. Uniform is provided. Career progression opportunities are available within the company, including potential moves to full time or coach driving roles. The team environment is friendly and supportive. You also get school holidays off except for occasional training days, giving you extended breaks throughout the year.
How to Apply
To be considered for this role, please apply online through the link provided on the job portal where you found this listing. Submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting your Class 2 licence and P endorsement. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and the required pre employment checks. If you are looking for a change and want to work for a company that values your skills and work ethic, do not wait. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.