Transportation Lead Mechanic

Starting Date: Immediately

Exempt Status: Non-Exempt

No. of Days: According to district approved calendar

Department: Transportation

Reports To: Director of Transportation

Supervises: Mechanic I and Mechanic II

Education: High School Diploma or GED required

Experience: Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in diesel and gasoline engine repair, including school bus or heavy-duty vehicle maintenance

This is a working lead position responsible for performing skilled mechanical repair and maintenance work (60%) while providing leadership, training, and work direction to shop personnel (40%). The Lead Mechanic serves as a technical resource and mentor, ensuring quality workmanship while maintaining productivity in a high-volume fleet maintenance environment. Must possess a valid Texas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B or higher with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements, or obtain within 90 days of hire.

Technical / Hands-On Duties (60%)

• Perform skilled diagnosis, repair, and maintenance on diesel engines (Cummins ISB 6.7L), gasoline engines, transmissions, electrical systems, air brakes, HVAC systems, and wheelchair lifts.
• Conduct preventive maintenance inspections and services according to established PM schedules.
• Perform Texas Department of Public Safety vehicle safety inspections.
• Troubleshoot and repair complex mechanical, electrical, and electronic system failures using diagnostic equipment and software.
• Complete repairs on school buses, white fleet vehicles, and support equipment for district departments.
• Monitor and maintain Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration cycles and aftertreatment systems.
• Respond to road calls and emergency breakdowns as needed.
• Operate and maintain shop equipment including lifts, tire machines, brake lathes, and diagnostic tools.

Leadership / Supervisory Duties (40%)

• Provide daily work direction and job assignments to Mechanic I and Mechanic II personnel.
• Train and mentor less experienced mechanics on proper repair techniques, diagnostic procedures, and safety practices.
• Conduct quality control inspections on completed repairs before vehicles are returned to service.
• Assist with prioritizing work orders and managing workflow to meet operational deadlines.
• Communicate with drivers, dispatchers, and supervisors regarding vehicle status and repair timelines.
• Document all repairs, parts usage, and labor time accurately in the fleet management system.
• Identify warranty repair opportunities and coordinate with vendors as directed.
• Participate in shop safety meetings and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
• Assist with parts identification and inventory management as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Fleet Manager, Assistant Director, or Director of Transportation.

• Five (5) years of experience in diesel and gasoline engine repair, preferably in a school bus or heavy-duty fleet environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency in diagnosing and repairing diesel engines, air brake systems, electrical systems, and HVAC.
• ASE certifications in Medium/Heavy Truck areas (T2 - Diesel Engines, T4 - Brakes, T6 - Electrical) preferred; must obtain within 18 months of hire.
• Texas Department of Public Safety Vehicle Inspector License required, or ability to obtain within 90 days.
• Valid Texas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B or higher with P and S endorsements, or ability to obtain within 90 days.
• Experience with electronic diagnostic equipment and fleet management software.
• Demonstrated leadership ability and experience training or mentoring others.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, wiring diagrams, and service bulletins.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Must pass criminal background check and maintain eligibility for student contact.

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling.
• Heavy lifting and carrying up to 75 pounds; occasional lifting up to 100 pounds with assistance.
• Reaching overhead and working in confined spaces.
• Manual dexterity for operating tools and handling small parts.
• Visual acuity for reading gauges, diagrams, and performing detailed work.
• Operation of motor vehicles including school buses.
• Regular and reliable attendance required.

• Computerized diagnostic equipment and software (Cummins INSITE, JPRO, etc.).
• Hand tools, power tools, pneumatic tools, and specialty automotive tools.
• Vehicle lifts, jacks, jack stands, and floor jacks.
• Brake lathe, tire machine, wheel balancer.
• Welding equipment (MIG, arc).
• Fleet management software and computer systems.
• School buses and district vehicles.

• Indoor shop environment and outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Exposure to noise, fumes, exhaust, grease, oils, solvents, and dust.
• Working around moving machinery, vehicles, and equipment.
• May be required to work extended hours, weekends, or…