Lead Mechanic

Kenowa Hills Public Schools•Grand Rapids, MI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Minimum of five (5) years of experience in school bus, diesel, heavy truck, or fleet maintenance
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 (DOT) physical requirements
Ability to supervise, train, and support mechanics and transportation staff
Ability to prioritize tasks, work independently, and respond effectively to operational needs and emergencies

Nice To Haves

Vocational or technical training in diesel, automotive, or heavy equipment repair preferred
Lead mechanic, supervisory, or shop coordination experience preferred
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
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

Responsibilities

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