School Bus Mechanic

Reports to: Director of Transportation
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Work Year: 12 Months (260 Work Days)

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent; graduation from an accredited trade school or technical college in Diesel/Automotive Mechanics preferred.
• Proven experience in heavy-duty vehicle maintenance; school bus fleet experience highly valued.
• Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Class B, Passenger (P), and School Bus (S) endorsements (or ability to obtain within 90 days).
• Ability to act as a substitute bus driver in cases of emergency staff shortages.
• Proficiency with computerized diagnostic software and various shop power tools (welders, lifts, tire machines).

About the Role

The School Bus Mechanic is responsible for the comprehensive maintenance, diagnostic analysis, and repair of the district's transportation fleet. The primary objective is to ensure that every vehicle operates at peak safety and efficiency by adhering to a rigorous preventive maintenance schedule, providing students with a safe environment to and from school.

Responsibilities

Preventive Maintenance & Inspection

• Execute a mandatory preventative maintenance (PM) program, ensuring every school bus is physically examined and serviced at least every 3 months (90 days).
• Perform rigorous pre-inspections to ensure all vehicles meet or exceed state safety lane requirements and Department of Transportation (DOT) standards.
• Conduct routine checks on critical safety components, including braking systems, steering linkages, suspension, tires, and emergency exits.

Mechanical Repair & Diagnostics

• Perform complex repairs on diesel and gasoline engines, transmissions, electrical systems, and drivetrain components.
• Maintain and repair wheelchair lifts, climate control (HVAC) systems, and electronic safety features (cameras, GPS, and stop-arm sensors).
• Respond to on-road breakdowns and incidents, performing field diagnostics and emergency repairs to minimize student transit delays.

Fleet Management & Documentation

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date digital and paper logs of vehicle maintenance history, fuel usage, and parts inventories.
• Monitor shop supplies and parts stock to ensure necessary materials are available for scheduled services while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
• Ensure all maintenance activities align with federal, state, and district safety regulations.

Leadership & Professionalism

• Function as a strong self-starter, prioritizing work orders based on the morning/afternoon route schedule and fleet availability without constant supervision.
• Coordinate the responsibilities of mechanic apprentices, overseeing their work quality and providing technical mentorship.
• Serve as a key liaison between the Director of Transportation, dispatchers, and drivers regarding the daily operational status of the fleet.

Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs, crawl under vehicles, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions and in a shop environment with exposure to noise, fumes, and chemicals.
• Exceptional organizational skills to meet strict 90-day service deadlines and manage emergency repair priorities.

Pay

$30.00–$31.10 per hour

Benefits

• Full benefits package (see district website for details)
• Paid time off
• Employee Assistance Program