TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The Vigo County School Corporation is looking to hire more bus drivers leading up to the school year.
According to VCSC Director of Communications Bill Riley, the position would be opportune for those seeking employment following the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I think one of the things that people are really looking for in a job right now is support and flexibility and this job has both,” Riley said. “For four hours a day bus drivers can earn up to $100 and we have a full training program.”
Riley said those hired to be a bus driver will receive complete training on how to operate the vehicles for free. Furthermore, VCSC will drive new hires to Indianapolis for the CDL test and help pay for licenses.
Trini Barnes, a 20-year bus driving veteran with the VCSC, said potential applicants should not be afraid of the bus’s size.
“You will be thoroughly trained in the positioning of the road, how to maneuver,” Barnes said. “Don’t be worried, don’t be apprehensive. Be confident in our trainers and our school corporation.”
In addition to free training, drivers are eligible for multiple employment benefits. Riley said these openings are an attractive option for all prospective employees, including retirees and those looking for a second job.
“This is a great job for maybe somebody who has a child just going off to school,” Riley said. “Working two hours in the morning, two hours in the afternoon may be a really great setup for somebody trying to get back into the workforce.”
Barnes said being open to hours and benefits are not the only job requirements and that drivers must have some innate qualities to be successful in dealing with students.
“Either you have people skills and you know you can handle something like this, or you don’t,” she said. “And I don’t know how else to say that.”
Barnes said there are certain attributes that could make someone an ideal candidate.
“You need to have the love of driving, and you have to have a love for students and children,” she said. “You have to love these people, because you really are changing their day. You’re the first person they meet and the last person they see at school. And you will change their day.”
To apply for the open bus driver positions, applicants should contact Supervisor of Transportation Nancy Weaver at (812) 462-4341.
