Diesel Mechanic-Bus Fleet
North Lawrence Community SchoolsNorth Lawrence Community Schools Diesel Mechanic – School Bus Fleet Department: Transportation Reports to: Director of Transportation Employment: Full-time, year-round Classification: Classified employee; hourly, nonexempt Compensation: $28 - $32 with placement based on relevant experience, demonstrated skills, and qualifications. Position Summary The Diesel Mechanic helps ensure students arrive at school and return home safely by maintaining reliable, safe school buses and district vehicles. This position performs preventive maintenance, diagnoses mechanical and electrical problems, completes repairs, and prepares vehicles for required safety inspections. Working closely with the Director of Transportation and bus drivers, the mechanic identifies problems early, prioritizes safety-related repairs, maintains accurate service records, and helps keep the district’s transportation fleet ready for daily routes, field trips, and extracurricular activities. The position requires sound judgment, dependable work habits, and responsible use of district equipment and resources. Essential Duties And Responsibilities Vehicle maintenance and repair Inspect, diagnose, maintain, and repair school buses and other assigned district vehicles. Work includes diesel engines, fuel and emissions systems, transmissions and drivelines, air and hydraulic brakes, steering and suspension, electrical and charging systems, tires, cooling systems, and heating and air-conditioning equipment. Service gasoline-powered or other district vehicles as assigned and within the employee’s training and qualifications. School-bus safety equipment Inspect and maintain school-bus-specific equipment, including warning lights, stop arms, crossing gates, entry doors, emergency exits, mirrors, seats, and child-check systems, as equipped. Inspect and service wheelchair lifts, accessibility equipment, and occupant-securement systems according to manufacturer instructions and applicable requirements. Preventive maintenance and inspection readiness Complete scheduled maintenance based on mileage, operating hours, manufacturer recommendations, and district procedures. Prepare buses for required Indiana State Police inspections, assist with the inspection process, and document completion of corrective repairs. Promptly identify unsafe conditions, notify the Director of Transportation, and follow district procedures to keep unsafe vehicles out of service until required repairs and return-to-service approvals are complete. Diagnostics, road testing, and emergency support Use diagnostic software, scan tools, electrical testing equipment, service manuals, and technical information to identify problems and verify repairs. Conduct authorized road tests when properly licensed and qualified. Respond to vehicle breakdowns and roadside service needs as assigned, using appropriate safety precautions and coordinating towing or additional assistance when necessary. Maintenance records, parts, and purchasing Maintain accurate records of inspections, maintenance, repairs, parts, labor, mileage, and outstanding service needs. Monitor frequently used parts and supplies and request replacements through district purchasing procedures. Identify warranty opportunities and communicate recurring mechanical problems, significant repair costs, and possible outside-service needs to the Director of Transportation. Coordination with transportation staff Review driver-reported concerns and communicate clearly about vehicle condition, repair progress, and availability. Coordinate maintenance to support transportation schedules without compromising safety. Assist drivers in recognizing and reporting mechanical concerns and support consistent vehicle-care practices. Shop safety and care of district property Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area. Properly use and maintain tools, lifts, jacks, diagnostic equipment, and personal protective equipment. Follow safe practices for supporting vehicles, controll…