Technician

First Student is hiring a Technician for our shop serving Riverside School District in Riverside, CA. Our team keeps students safe and on time every day—because behind every bus is a skilled mechanic who ensures reliability, safety, and peace of mind for families across our community. While First Student is North America's leading school transportation provider—serving more than 1,250 districts and 5.4 million student journeys daily—our focus here in Riverside is local. You'll join a close-knit team that values collaboration, safety, and community connection.

About the Role

As a Technician with First Student, you will help maintain and repair school buses to ensure safety and reliability.

Responsibilities

• Ensure vehicles are maintained and safe for our passengers.
• Diagnose and perform all phases of vehicle maintenance including the repair of brakes and brake inspections, engine tune-ups, suspensions, drive trains, transmission clutches, and other repairs.
• Perform preventive maintenance (PMs), safety inspections, and annual maintenance inspections.
• Complete work orders accurately.
• Assist with mobile emergency repair services when needed.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of diesel or automotive maintenance and repair experience, or equivalent technical school education and experience.
• Vehicle diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver's license required.
• CDL Class B or ability to obtain within 60 days of employment—company-paid training provided.
• Possession of a mechanic's tool set to complete all assigned duties.
• Willingness to participate in the ASE certification program (training, testing, and bonuses provided).
• Strong computer skills.

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.

Schedule

Monday-Friday, full-time day shift: 1:00 pm - 9:30 pm.

Pay

Hourly rate: $41.60 per union contract (not flat rate). Bonus rate increase available for each ASE School Bus Series test passed and maintained (up to $2/hour more).

Benefits

• 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.
• Paid holidays and vacation time.
• Annual allowances for boots and prescription safety glasses.
• Discounts on cell phone plans, vehicles, and more through the PerkSpot program.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.

Career advancement opportunities: Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations across the U.S. & Canada.