Lead Mechanic

Lead MechanicKenowa Hills Public Schools seeks an experienced, organized, and safety-focused professional to serve as Lead Mechanic for the district's Transportation Department. This position oversees daily maintenance operations and supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the district's school bus fleet and transportation vehicles.The ideal candidate will possess strong diagnostic and repair skills, knowledge of state and federal transportation regulations, leadership experience, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent required; vocational or technical training in diesel, automotive, or heavy equipment repair preferredMinimum of five (5) years of experience in school bus, diesel, heavy truck, or fleet maintenanceLead mechanic, supervisory, or shop coordination experience preferredValid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements required, or ability to obtain within a district-established timelineAbility to pass and maintain annual Department of Transportation (DOT) physical requirementsMichigan School Bus Mechanic Certifications and/or experience related to:Brake systemsSteering and suspensionDiesel and gas enginesElectrical and fuel systemsPreventative maintenance inspectionsHeating, air, and hydraulic systemsDrive train and transmission systemsASE Medium/Heavy Truck Certifications preferredKnowledge of Michigan pupil transportation regulations, bus inspection requirements, and preventative maintenance programs preferredExperience with inventory management, purchasing, shop safety, and maintenance record systemsAbility to supervise, train, and support mechanics and transportation staffAbility to prioritize tasks, work independently, and respond effectively to operational needs and emergenciesProficiency with transportation software, diagnostic systems, repair manuals, and computerized maintenance tracking systems preferredMichigan School Bus Inspector Certification preferred or ability to obtain within a district-established timelineBasic welding and fabrication experience preferredEssential Functions and ResponsibilitiesCoordinate maintenance operations for the district's bus fleet, vehicles, and transportation equipmentPerform advanced diagnostics, repairs, inspections, and preventative maintenanceAssist in developing and maintaining preventative maintenance schedules and proceduresEnsure compliance with all local, state, federal, and Michigan Department of Education transportation safety standardsPrepare vehicles for required inspections and compliance reviewsMaintain maintenance records, repair histories, inspection documentation, and operating cost reportsSupervise, train, and support mechanics and shop personnelPromote professionalism, safety, and positive communication within the departmentAssist in evaluating transportation shop personnelMaintain inventory of parts, tools, fuel, equipment, and suppliesAssist with purchasing recommendations for vehicles, equipment, tools, and repair partsMaintain a safe, organized, and efficient shop environmentRespond to transportation emergencies, breakdowns, and urgent repair needs, including outside regular work hours as neededCollaborate effectively with transportation staff, administrators, vendors, and service providersTrain staff on vehicle safety procedures and equipment operationPerform additional duties as assigned by the Director of TransportationPhysical Demands and Work EnvironmentThe physical demands and work environment described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.Physical RequirementsThis position requires the ability to:Stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, crawl, twist, and reach frequentlyWork underneath, inside, and around buses and district vehicles for extended periodsLift, carry, push, and pull equipment and vehicle parts weighing up to 75 poundsSafely operate hand tools, power tools, hydraulic lifts, jacks, and diagnostic equipmentClimb into buses, under vehicles, and onto ladders safelyPerform repetitive hand and arm motions during repairsOperate district vehicles and buses in varying weather and road conditionsCommunicate effectively with staff, vendors, drivers, and administratorsWork EnvironmentWork conditions may include:Exposure to loud noise, vibrations, dust, fumes, grease, fuel, oils, chemicals, and cleaning agentsIndoor and outdoor work in varying Michigan weather conditionsExposure to moving mechanical parts and vehicle trafficFrequent interruptions, changing priorities, and emergency repair situationsThis role also requires the ability to maintain a safe and organized work environment, respond calmly during emergencies, and collaborate effectively in a fast-paced setting.Work Location RequirementThis is an in-person position requiring regular on-site attendance. The essential functions of this role cannot be performed remotely.Note to ApplicantsPursuant to PA 131, the selected candidate must receive clearance from the Michigan State Police Department prior to employment. The candidate is responsible for the background check fee.Notice of Non-DiscriminationKenowa Hills Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), age, disability, height, weight, marital status, genetic information, military status, or any other legally protected status in its programs, services, activities, or employment opportunities.Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies should be directed to:Director of Human Resources Kenowa Hills Public Schools 2325 Four Mile Road NW Grand Rapids, MI 49544 Phone: 616-784-2511Applicants requiring accommodations during the application or interview process are encouraged to contact Human Resources.