Mechanic I

Mechanic I - Transportation Department

Position Title: Mechanic I Department: Transportation Reports To: Transportation Supervisor Term of Employment: 12 Months

Under general supervision, performs skilled work in the maintenance, inspection, diagnosis, and repair of school buses, activity buses, and other district vehicles. The employee assists in ensuring that all transportation vehicles are maintained in a safe and reliable operating condition and comply with North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI), Department of Transportation (DOT), and Hertford County Public Schools standards. Work includes preventive maintenance, minor to moderate repairs, inspections, and maintaining accurate maintenance records.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

• Performs preventive maintenance inspections on school buses and support vehicles.
• Changes oil, filters, fluids, belts, hoses, and other routine maintenance components.
• Diagnoses and repairs minor mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic system issues.
• Assists with engine, transmission, brake, steering, suspension, and HVAC repairs.
• Repairs or replaces lights, mirrors, seats, windows, warning devices, and safety equipment.
• Performs tire inspections, repairs, rotations, and replacements.
• Conducts road tests to verify repairs and vehicle performance.
• Responds to vehicle breakdowns and assists with road calls as assigned.

Safety and Compliance

• Assists in conducting state-required school bus inspections.
• Ensures all vehicles meet federal, state, and local safety requirements.
• Identifies and reports safety concerns and mechanical deficiencies.
• Follows all safety procedures related to equipment, tools, and shop operations.
• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Recordkeeping and Inventory

• Completes work orders and maintenance records accurately and timely.
• Documents labor, parts usage, and repair activities.
• Assists with inventory management and parts organization.
• Reports major repairs and equipment needs to the Transportation Supervisor.

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintains confidentiality regarding district operations and personnel matters.
• Demonstrates professionalism in interactions with staff, students, parents, and vendors.
• Participates in training programs and professional development activities.
• Supports departmental goals and initiatives.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of automotive and diesel maintenance principles and practices.

Knowledge of shop safety procedures and equipment operation.

Ability to diagnose mechanical and electrical problems using diagnostic tools.

Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and repair instructions.

Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Minimum Training and Experience

Education

High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience

One (1) year of experience in automotive, diesel, truck, or heavy equipment maintenance preferred.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Licenses and Certifications

Valid North Carolina Driver License required.

Must obtain and maintain a North Carolina Commercial Driver License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements as required by the district.

Must obtain NCDPI School Bus Inspector Certification within the timeframe established by the district.

Must maintain all required certifications and training.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull equipment and parts weighing up to 75 pounds regularly and up to 100 pounds occasionally.

Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, crawl, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.

Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Ability to safely operate vehicles, shop equipment, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.

Working Conditions

The work is performed primarily in a transportation maintenance facility and outdoors under varying weather conditions. The employee is exposed to noise, moving mechanical parts, grease, chemicals, and other conditions associated with vehicle maintenance and repair.

Evaluation

Performance will be evaluated annually in accordance with the Hertford County Public Schools Transportation Department evaluation procedures.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by an employee assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Management reserves the right to modify or assign other duties as necessary.