Lead Mechanic

Lead Mechanic

Kenowa Hills Public Schools – Walker, Michigan

Job : 5741615

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Posted: May 27, 2026 4:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Position: Lead Mechanic

Location: Transportation Department / Bus Garage

Schedule: Full-Time, Year-Round

Rate of Pay: Per Board Authorized Pay schedule

Reports To: Director of Transportation

Kenowa Hills Public Schools seeks an experienced, organized, and safety-focused professional to serve as Lead Mechanic for the district’s Transportation Department. This position oversees daily maintenance operations and supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the district’s school bus fleet and transportation vehicles.

The ideal candidate will possess strong diagnostic and repair skills, knowledge of state and federal transportation regulations, leadership experience, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; vocational or technical training in diesel, automotive, or heavy equipment repair preferred
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in school bus, diesel, heavy truck, or fleet maintenance
• Lead mechanic, supervisory, or shop coordination experience preferred
• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements required, or ability to obtain within a district‑established timeline
• Ability to pass and maintain annual Department of Transportation (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). requirements
• Michigan School Bus Mechanic Certifications and/or experience related to:
  • Brake systems
  • Steering and suspension
  • Diesel and gas engines
  • Electrical and fuel systems
  • Preventative maintenance inspections
  • Heating, air, and hydraulic systems
  • Drive train and transmission systems
• ASE Medium/Heavy Truck Certifications preferred
• Knowledge of Michigan pupil transportation regulations, bus inspection requirements, and preventative maintenance programs preferred
• Experience with inventory management, purchasing, shop safety, and maintenance record systems
• Ability to supervise, train, and support mechanics and transportation staff
• Ability to prioritize tasks, work independently, and respond effectively to operational needs and emergencies
• Proficiency with transportation software, diagnostic systems, repair manuals, and computerized maintenance tracking systems preferred
• Michigan School Bus Inspector Certification preferred or ability to obtain within a district‑established timeline
• Basic welding and fabrication experience preferred

• Coordinate maintenance operations for the district’s bus fleet, vehicles, and transportation equipment
• Perform advanced diagnostics, repairs, inspections, and preventative maintenance
• Assist in developing and maintaining preventative maintenance schedules and procedures
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, federal, and Michigan Department of Education transportation safety standards
• Prepare vehicles for required inspections and compliance reviews
• Maintain maintenance records, repair histories, inspection documentation, and operating cost reports
• Supervise, train, and support mechanics and shop personnel
• Promote professionalism, safety, and positive communication within the department
• Assist in evaluating transportation shop personnel
• Maintain inventory of parts, tools, fuel, equipment, and supplies
• Assist with purchasing recommendations for vehicles, equipment, tools, and repair parts
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient shop environment
• Respond to transportation emergencies, breakdowns, and urgent repair needs, including outside regular work hours as needed
• Collaborate effectively with transportation staff, administrators, vendors, and service providers
• Train staff on vehicle safety procedures and equipment operation
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Transportation

The physical demands and work environment described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.