School Bus Systems Technician​

About the role

The School Bus Systems Technician provides specialized technical support for transportation technology systems to ensure safe and efficient student transportation across IDEA's yellow bus fleet. This role focuses on troubleshooting and maintaining tablets used for student ID scanning, pre/post trip inspections via Transfinder's RouteFinder and WayFinder applications, as well as maintaining camera systems for safety and security monitoring.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze student ID scanning data through RouteFinder and WayFinder systems across all transportation campuses to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Troubleshoot tablet functionality issues and Transfinder application problems that may impact scanning performance and resolve technical barriers promptly.
• Provide training and technical support to drivers and transportation staff on proper scanning procedures, tablet operation, and Transfinder software usage.
• Coordinate with Regional Transportation Managers and campus transportation staff to implement best practices and ensure consistent scanning protocols.
• Generate regular reports on scanning performance using RouteFinder analytics and provide data-driven recommendations for improvement.
• Maintain tablet software updates, application configurations, and Transfinder integrations to optimize scanning efficiency and system reliability.
• Conduct routine preventive maintenance on all tablets across the transportation fleet using industry-standard diagnostic tools and procedures.
• Respond promptly to tablet malfunctions, hardware failures, and software issues to restore functionality within service level agreements.
• Maintain adequate inventory of spare tablets, charging cables, mounting hardware, and replacement parts to support immediate repairs and minimize downtime.
• Coordinate with suppliers and vendors (including Transfinder) for warranty repairs, replacements, and technical support escalations as needed.
• Document all maintenance activities, track tablet performance metrics, and maintain comprehensive service records for fleet management reporting.
• Implement proactive monitoring systems and diagnostic protocols to identify potential issues before they cause operational downtime.
• Train transportation staff on basic tablet troubleshooting, proper handling procedures, and preventive care to reduce service calls.
• Support safety audit activities by ensuring all technology systems including tablets, cameras, and Zonar telematics are functioning properly during inspections.
• Provide technical expertise during audits to verify proper installation, operation, and compliance of tablets, cameras, and telematics systems with state and federal regulations.
• Aid in training programs for drivers and transportation staff on technology-related safety protocols, inspection procedures, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of all technology installations, configurations, and compliance records for audit purposes and regulatory reporting.
• Collaborate with safety team and RTMs to address any technology-related audit findings promptly and implement corrective action plans.
• Ensure camera systems are operational and recording properly to support safety compliance requirements and incident documentation.
• Support electronic inspection processes through Zonar EVIR systems and maintain digital inspection records.
• Support route optimization by ensuring tablets are properly configured for RouteFinder and WayFinder routing functionality and GPS accuracy.
• Troubleshoot routing software issues, GPS connectivity problems, and telematics integration challenges that may impact efficient route planning and execution.
• Provide technical support for Zonar telematics systems that track bus utilization, route efficiency, and performance analytics.
• Collaborate with transportation managers to analyze utilization data from Zonar Ground Traffic Control platform and identify improvement opportunities through technology optimization.
• Ensure GPS tracking systems, route navigation, and telematics are accurately recording bus movements, stops, and operational data for utilization analysis.
• Maintain backup systems and redundancies to prevent technology failures that could impact route efficiency or utilization tracking accuracy.
• Support mobile device management (MDM) systems to ensure consistent software deployment and configuration across the tablet fleet.
• Establish and maintain an efficient digital ticketing system for all technology-related service requests with proper prioritization protocols.
• Prioritize service tickets based on operational urgency, safety impact, and effect on transportation services to ensure critical issues receive immediate attention.
• Maintain detailed digital records of all service activities, resolution methods, parts used, and time-to-resolution for performance analysis and improvement.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance schedules for tablets, cameras, and associated hardware to reduce the frequency of reactive service requests.
• Coordinate with external vendors, Transfinder support, Zonar technical services, and suppliers when specialized repairs or advanced technical support are required.
• Continuously improve response processes, troubleshooting procedures, and resolution workflows to exceed the 3-day average resolution target while maintaining quality standards.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED minimum
Valid driver's license with clean driving record and ability to travel between multiple campus locations
Experience with tablet devices, mobile technology platforms, and troubleshooting consumer electronics
Knowledge of GPS systems, telematics hardware, camera systems, and basic networking concepts
Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, wiring diagrams, and installation specifications
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and ability to generate technical reports and documentation
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail and systematic troubleshooting approach
Excellent communication and customer service skills with ability to train non-technical users
Physical capability to work in various environments including bus maintenance facilities and outdoor conditions
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 40 pounds including equipment, tablets, and replacement parts
Continuous use of hands, fingers, and wrists for technical work, typing, and detailed electronic component handling
Reaching overhead and into tight spaces for equipment installation, cable routing, and system access
Fine motor skills required for handling small electronic components, connectors, and cables
Sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods of time during troubleshooting and installation activities
Climbing in and out of buses and working in confined spaces for equipment installation and repair work
Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to