Lead Diesel Technician / Shop Foreman

Location: Duxbury, VT

Schedule

Monday-Friday | 5:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Pay

Starting at $36.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications. Additional wage increases available for each ASE School Bus Series certification passed and maintained, up to $2.00 more per hour.

About the Role

As a Lead Diesel Technician / Shop Foreman at First Student, you will ensure every vehicle runs safely, efficiently, and reliably—keeping our communities moving with confidence. This position combines hands-on technical work with shop leadership, technician development, workflow coordination, and fleet-maintenance oversight.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily shop workflow and assign maintenance and repair work to technicians
• Conduct daily shop huddles and communicate maintenance priorities
• Oversee complex vehicle diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repairs
• Perform road tests when required
• Maintain advanced working knowledge of diesel and gasoline engines, emissions systems, transmissions, brakes, hydraulics, electrical systems, suspension, and HVAC systems
• Perform preventive maintenance, inspections, and hands-on repairs as needed
• Train, coach, and support technicians at varying skill levels
• Assist with technician performance evaluations and hiring decisions
• Monitor repair quality, productivity, and technician performance
• Schedule fleet maintenance and coordinate vehicles entering and leaving the shop
• Manage parts and inventory controls
• Approve expenses within assigned authority
• Maintain accurate repair and maintenance documentation
• Ensure compliance with company policies and applicable federal and state safety regulations
• Monitor preventive-maintenance schedules and inspection requirements
• Communicate fleet status, repair needs, expenses, and operational concerns to management
• Assist with maintenance budgets and special projects
• Support a clean, organized, and safe shop environment
• Participate in First Student's ASE certification program

Qualifications

• At least five years of diesel or automotive maintenance and repair experience, or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience
• Previous experience as a lead technician, shop foreman, supervisor, or maintenance manager is preferred
• Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting ability
• Experience directing workflow and supporting the development of other technicians
• Knowledge of preventive maintenance, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, hydraulics, emissions, HVAC, and engine repair
• Valid driver's license required
• Willingness to obtain a CDL while employed; company-paid training is provided
• Strong computer and maintenance-documentation skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with technicians, management, vendors, and operations personnel
• Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced fleet environment
• Must possess a mechanic's tool set
• ASE certifications are preferred

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.

Benefits

• Company-paid ASE testing and training materials
• Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing
• Career advancement opportunities into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles across more than 540 locations in the United States and Canada
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k)
• Paid holidays and vacation time
• Annual allowances for work boots and prescription safety glasses
• State-of-the-art training programs
• Discounts on cell phone plans, vehicles, electronics, and more through the PerkSpot program
• Employee Assistance Program with counseling and support services for personal and work-related concerns