Automotive/Diesel Mechanic

Dattco•East Hartford, CT

3d•Onsite

About The Position

DATTCO is hiring a full-time Automotive/Diesel Mechanic for its School Bus Fleet Maintenance team in East Hartford, Connecticut. The role maintains and repairs school buses and other fleet vehicles to support safe, reliable school transportation. Technicians perform preventive maintenance, diagnose and repair vehicle systems, respond to road calls when needed, and accurately document their work. The position offers an hourly rate of $22–$38.38, with starting pay based on relevant experience, qualifications, skills, and other job-related factors. Additional compensation may include overtime and on-call hours. Shifts are eight hours; schedules vary by location and business needs. Most locations operate between 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., while the South Windsor location is open until 7:00 p.m. Limited part-time opportunities may be available. DATTCO describes its shops as modern, clean, bright, and well heated, and highlights paid factory training, certification reimbursement, ASE bonus opportunities, CDL training opportunities where applicable, and a promote-from-within culture. The company was founded in 1924 and is a third-generation, family-owned transportation company. Its School Bus Division has more than 1,000 buses and serves over 140,000 students across 30 school districts in Connecticut and Rhode Island.

Requirements

High school diploma, technical school education, or equivalent.
Valid driver’s license.
At least one year of experience in automotive, truck, diesel, or bus repair.
Must have a personal set of tools and equipment.
Ability to understand, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical systems using appropriate tools and equipment.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Team-focused attitude and pride in quality work that supports student safety.
Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds occasionally.
Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, climb, reach, twist, stand, walk, and work in and around vehicles for extended periods.
Ability to use hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment, and shop equipment safely.

Nice To Haves

CDL license, or willingness and eligibility to obtain one.
ASE certifications, or willingness to work toward ASE certifications.

Responsibilities

Perform scheduled preventive maintenance and service inspections on school buses and other fleet vehicles.
Diagnose and repair mechanical, diesel, electrical, and drivability issues.
Inspect, service, and repair brake systems, tires and wheels, steering, suspension, drivetrains, transmissions, cooling systems, fuel systems, exhaust systems, lighting, electrical systems, batteries, charging systems, doors, windows, body components, and HVAC systems.
Respond to road calls and assist with mobile repairs when needed to keep routes running safely and on time.
Complete repair orders, inspection documentation, parts usage records, and other required paperwork accurately and promptly.
Communicate repair needs, safety concerns, and vehicle status to the shop foreman or supervisor.
Maintain proper hand tools and use shop equipment safely and responsibly.
Follow safety procedures, shop standards, manufacturer guidelines, and supervisor direction.