CLASSIFIED_Lead District Diesel Mechanic

Lead Diesel School Bus Mechanic

It is the policy of Gretna Public Schools to not discriminate on the basis of sex, disability, race, color, religion, veteran status, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, or other protected status in its educational programs, admission policies, employment policies or other administered programs. Persons requiring accommodations to apply and/or be considered for positions are asked to make their request to the Superintendent.

This posting is for a full time lead bus mechanic.

Reports To: Director of Transportation

Job Summary: The Lead Diesel School Bus Mechanic is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and inspection of the district's fleet of school buses and other vehicles within the district's fleet. This role ensures that all vehicles are safe, reliable, and in full compliance with state and federal transportation regulations. In addition to performing advanced diagnostics and repairs, the Lead Diesel Mechanic provides technical guidance to other mechanics, manages workflow in the shop, and coordinates preventative maintenance schedules. A willingness to drive a school bus when needed is also required.

Compensation: Salary and benefits are commensurate with experience and qualifications and are in accordance with the school district's pay scale and policies. Full family health insurance coverage paid by district.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintenance and Repair:

  • Perform routine and preventive maintenance on school buses and other district vehicles, including oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and engine diagnostics.
  • Identify and repair mechanical, electrical, and structural issues on a variety of vehicles.

• Inspections:

  • Conduct regular inspections of school buses to ensure they meet safety standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Document and report any defects or issues found during inspections.

• Safety Compliance:

  • Ensure all vehicles comply with state and federal transportation safety regulations.
  • Maintain accurate records of inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
  • Collaborate with the fleet manager to schedule and prioritize maintenance tasks.

• Emergency Repairs:

  • Provide on-call repair services for breakdowns and other emergencies to minimize downtime.
  • Assist with road calls and emergency services when vehicles break down on the road.

• Inventory and Equipment Management:

  • Maintain inventory of parts, tools, and equipment.
  • Order and replace parts as necessary.
  • Ensure all tools and equipment are in good working condition and comply with safety standards.

• Technical Expertise and Training:

  • Stay updated on the latest automotive technology and repair techniques.
  • Attend workshops, training sessions, and certification programs as required.
  • Provide training and guidance to junior mechanics and apprentices.

• Collaboration:

  • Work closely with transportation supervisors, drivers, and other staff to address vehicle issues and improve fleet performance.
  • Communicate effectively with school district personnel regarding vehicle status and repair needs.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Certification from an accredited automotive or diesel technology program is preferred.
• ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification is desirable.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in automotive or diesel mechanics, with specific experience in school bus or heavy vehicle maintenance preferred.
• Strong knowledge of vehicle systems, including engines, transmissions, brakes, electrical, and HVAC systems.
• Proficiency with diagnostic tools and repair equipment.
• Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with proper endorsements, or willingness to obtain one.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Physical ability to lift heavy parts and equipment, stand for long periods, and work in various environmental conditions.
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Transportation.

Work Environment:

• Work is performed in a garage or workshop setting, with exposure to loud noises, fumes, and potentially hazardous materials.
• May involve working in adverse weather conditions when performing emergency repairs or inspections.
• Requires adherence to safety protocols and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).