Diesel Technician

About the role

First Student is now hiring a Diesel Technician I for our shop serving Yonkers Public Schools, Mount Vernon City School District, City School District of New Rochelle, and New York City Public Schools in Yonkers, New York!

Union

Union: TWU Local 100

Why Join First as a Diesel Mechanic?

• Pay is established by the TWU Local 100 union contract.
• Hrs/Schedule: Monday-Friday, full-time second shift, 2:00 PM-10:00 PM
• $28.23 per hour - not flat rate.
• Consistent, year-round work.
• $700 annual tool allowance.
• $200 annual boot allowance.
• $200 safety bonus.
• Company-paid ASE testing and training materials.
• Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing.
• Excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with company match.
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into maintenance, operational, management, and leadership roles across more than 540 locations in the U.S. and Canada.
• Paid holidays and vacation time.
• Awarded prescription safety glasses.
• Discounts on cell phone plans, vehicles, electronics, appliances, and more through the PerkSpot program.
• Employee Assistance Program: Counseling and support services for personal and work-related matters.
• Union representation through TWU Local 100.

  Diesel Technician Position

  As a Diesel Technician I with First Student, you will perform routine maintenance and basic repair work on school buses, vans, and other fleet vehicles. You will work under direct supervision while developing your technical skills and helping ensure our vehicles remain safe, reliable, and ready to serve students throughout the community.

  Diesel Technician Key Responsibilities

  • Ensure vehicles are properly maintained and safe for our passengers.
  • Perform basic maintenance and limited repairs, including replacing light bulbs, fuses, lenses, wiper blades, belts, hoses, and batteries.
  • Check fluid levels and change fluids, filters, and lubricants.
  • Assist Tech II and Tech III employees with preventive maintenance, safety inspections, and annual maintenance inspections.
  • Assist with repairs involving brakes, suspensions, drivetrains, transmission clutches, and other vehicle systems.
  • Perform vehicle and equipment repairs under direct supervision.
  • Conduct visual inspections and identify potential maintenance or safety concerns.
  • Complete work orders accurately, including documenting parts and supplies used.
  • Evaluate completed work and obtain approval before vehicles are released.
  • Notify supervisors of potentially unsafe equipment and any corrective action taken.
  • Move vehicles safely between work and service areas.
  • Aid with road calls and mobile emergency repair services when needed.
  • Clean vehicles as requested or required.
  • Maintain an organized shop and clean work environment.
  • Follow all First Student safety standards, policies, and procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

    Diesel Technician Qualifications

    • Basic mechanical aptitude and up to one year of automotive or diesel maintenance and repair experience preferred, or equivalent technical school education and experience.
    • High school diploma or GED preferred.
    • Vocational or technical certification in vehicle repair preferred.
    • Basic vehicle diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
    • Valid driver's license required.
    • CDL Class B with Passenger endorsement preferred.
    • Ability to obtain a CDL Class B with Passenger endorsement within three months of employment; company-paid training is provided.
    • ASE certification preferred.
    • Willingness to participate in the ASE certification program within one year of hire.
    • Possession of a basic mechanic's tool set sufficient to perform assigned duties.
    • Comfortable using hand tools.
    • Basic computer skills.
    • Strong customer service and communication skills.
    • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
    • Ability to maintain regular, predictable, and full attendance.
    • Commitment to maintaining safe and reliable vehicles for our customers.

      Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

      • Ability to work in a maintenance shop environment with dust, dirt, and grease.
      • Ability to work under varying weather conditions.
      • Ability to lift at least 50 pounds.
      • Ability to work in crouched, kneeling, standing, and lying positions.
      • Ability to work beneath vehicles while using a mechanic's creeper.

      Note

      This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.