Tuscaloosa City Schools Facing 'Critical' Shortage Of Bus Drivers

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Tuscaloosa City Schools (TCS) says it is looking to immediately hire 21 school bus drivers, with district leaders describing the shortage as “critical.”

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“We’re doing everything we can to keep routes running safely and on time,” Superintendent Mike Daria said. “But we need help. These positions are essential.”

The district is offering several benefits to drivers, including starting pay of $23.80 per hour, air-conditioned buses, full reimbursement for obtaining a commercial driver’s license, state retirement and affordable health insurance.

To help fill the vacancies, TCS will hold two “Apply On-the-Spot” hiring events at its Transportation Department, located at 1302 James Harrison Parkway East.

“We will help you through every step of the process,” Transportation Director Tiny McCool said. “If you enjoy working with children and want a job with great benefits and meaningful impact, this is the place to be.”

The events will take place Sept. 24 and Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Applicants can walk in, complete an application, learn more about the job and finish fingerprinting — a $44.95 requirement for employment — in the same visit.

No prior driving experience is necessary, though candidates must have a clean driving record.

More information is available here or by calling the TCS Transportation Department at (205) 247-2400.

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