Area I - Fuel Technician – Bus Service Center Operations

Fuel Technician

The mission of the South Carolina Department of Education is to serve students, support teachers, empower parents, and engage the community so that every student graduates prepared to reach their full potential.

At the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE), transportation plays a critical role in student access, safety, and opportunity across the state. Our work ensures that students arrive at school safely, reliably, and ready to learn—every day. SCDE Transportation supports districts statewide through maintenance, safety, fleet management, and training. As a state agency, SCDE offers long-term stability, hands-on experience with modern equipment, professional development, and opportunities to grow within a mission-driven organization.

Job Purpose

The South Carolina Department of Education is seeking a dependable Fuel Technician to support school bus and fleet operations by performing fueling services, preventive maintenance, basic mechanical support, and field assistance. This position plays a key role in fleet readiness by ensuring vehicles are fueled, serviced, and prepared for safe daily operation across South Carolina.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Ensure fleet readiness

• Perform fueling operations, fluid level checks, and basic preventive maintenance tasks to ensure vehicles are ready for daily service.
• Conduct scheduled lubrication, filter replacement, tire servicing, and routine safety inspections in accordance with maintenance standards.
• Support certified technicians by assisting with mechanical repairs, parts handling, diagnostics support, and shop operations as directed.
• Respond to field service calls for fueling issues, fluid emergencies, breakdown support, and basic troubleshooting under supervision.
• Accurately document services performed, parts used, fueling records, and maintenance activities in accordance with department procedures.
• Keep work areas clean and organized, operate service equipment safely, and follow all safety, environmental, and PPE requirements.

Each position is located at one of the eleven (11) AREA I bus maintenance shops and does NOT float between shops. In the supplemental questions, please indicate your preferred shop assignments. This position is located in the Office of Transportation.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

Work experience involving the independent performance of job duties directly related to the area of employment.

Valid driver's license at time of hire.

Ability to obtain and maintain a Class A or B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with required endorsements within 120 days of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

Ability to safely operate power, hydraulic, and electronic service equipment.

Ability to pass required background checks, drug screenings, and USDOT medical examination.

One (1) or more years of experience in automotive, diesel, or related mechanical repair.

Experience working in a fleet, school bus, or commercial vehicle maintenance environment.

Familiarity with shop safety practices and basic diagnostic procedures.

Additional Comments

Work is performed in shop, fueling, field, and outdoor environments with exposure to weather conditions, noise, grease, fuel vapors, and mechanical hazards. The position requires lifting, bending, kneeling, climbing, and prolonged standing. Adherence to all safety, environmental, and PPE requirements is mandatory.

Career Growth at SCDE Transportation

SCDE Transportation values entry-level and developing technical talent and supports growth through hands-on experience, training, and certifications. Fuel Technicians may build foundational skills and pursue advancement into Service Technician or other maintenance roles within a stable statewide transportation operation.

Benefits

As part of a comprehensive state compensation package, the South Carolina Department of Education offers:

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance options for employees and eligible dependents
• Fifteen (15) days annual (vacation) leave per year
• Fifteen (15) days sick leave per year
• Thirteen (13) paid holidays
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation (401k) programs
• Professional development and training opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer

The South Carolina Department of Education is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.