The Houston Independent School District’s Transportation Services department will host a job fair this month to recruit bus drivers as part of continuing efforts to make sure all routes are fully staffed and drivers are available for both new routes and to provide coverage if employees are absent.

The job fair will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 22 at Sterling High School.

Selected applicants will earn a starting hourly wage of $16.65 and will be provided free CDL training. Other benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, Teacher Retirement System participation and special trip pay options.

Transportation Services representatives will conduct application reviews and onsite interviews and drug testing, with offers extended to eligible candidates. All applicants are asked to bring their valid driver’s license, social security card or their employment authorization card/visa, if applicable.

Applicants must be at least 18-years-old with a valid Texas driver’s license and a motor vehicle report with less than six points. They must also be able to pass a background investigation, drug and alcohol screening, and a Department of Transportation physical. Applicants also must be able to communicate in English — both orally and in writing.

The job fair is part of the district’s continued efforts to increase route efficiency and provide better service to students. This year, the department began utilizing Infofinder I, an online tool to help parents determine their child’s school bus stop location and route number. In the coming months, the department also will launch Safe Stop via Zonar, a GPS system that will allow parents to track their child’s bus in real-time.