Automotive/Diesel Mechanic

Dattco•Portland, CT

3d•Onsite

About The Position

DATTCO is hiring a full-time Automotive/Diesel Mechanic for its School Bus Fleet Maintenance team in Portland, Connecticut. The role supports safe and reliable school bus routes by maintaining and repairing school buses and other fleet vehicles. Technicians work in modern shops and may respond to road calls or assist with mobile repairs as needed. The position offers an hourly rate of $22–$38.38, with starting pay determined by relevant experience, qualifications, skills, and other job-related factors. Additional compensation may include overtime and on-call hours. Shifts are eight hours, with schedules varying by location and business needs. Most locations operate between 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.; the South Windsor location operates until 7:00 p.m. Limited part-time opportunities may be available. DATTCO describes a safety-first, family-oriented work environment and offers paid factory training, certification reimbursement, ASE bonus opportunities, CDL training opportunities where applicable, and opportunities for career growth and promotion from within. Shops are described as modern, clean, bright, and well heated.

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.
Own 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 doing 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 all safety procedures, shop standards, manufacturer guidelines, and supervisor direction.