SLO County school district offers $2,000 sign-on bonus to fill a key shortage
A new job listing in the Paso Robles school district offers year-round work, a $2,000 sign-on bonus and an hourly salary up to $30. Plus, hires would receive nearly $8,000 worth of job training and certifications on the district’s dime.
So, what’s the job?
A school bus driver and groundskeeper.
According to a news release from the district, the “Transportation & Facilities Support Technician” listing is Paso Robles’ attempt to fill the bus driver shortage that has affected its own schools, as well as schools across the nation.
By offering financial incentives and year-round work, the district is hoping to attract reliable employees who can shuttle kids to and from school and ensure district facilities are maintained.
According to the online advertisement, three positions are available. The job requirements include a high school diploma or GED, ability to lift up to 50 lbs and ability to pass a drug test, background check and DMV record scan.
The district will provide training to fulfill the other requirements, which include a valid commercial class B driver’s license with passenger and school bus endorsements and California school bus driver certification, which must be obtained within six months of being hired, the listing said.
The hires will serve three roles in the district: driving kids to school, maintaining school buildings and keeping school grounds.
“Employees will rotate between these duties depending on the needs of the school district and the employee’s assigned schedule,” the advertisement said.
The job offer is the latest effort from the Paso Robles school district to fill the bus driver shortage. According to the release, the district has worked to raise pay for bus drivers and created flexible 5- and 8-hour work shifts.
“This new position shows our commitment to finding creative solutions that benefit both employees and our community,” said district Superintendent Jennifer Loftus in the news release. “By offering year-round work, paid training, and strong benefits, we’re making Paso Robles one of the most attractive districts for drivers in the region.”
Interested applicants can view and apply to the listing on EdJoin. The deadline to apply is Oct. 24 at 4 p.m.
The district encouraged prospective applicants with questions to contact Sonia De Leon at 805-769-1000.
This story was originally published October 16, 2025 at 10:00 AM.
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