Lead Technician

National Express • Perris, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

As the Lead Fleet Technician for a school bus fleet, you will be responsible for setting the tone for safety, quality, and uptime. This role involves handling advanced diagnostics and repairs on medium/heavy vehicles, overseeing inspection readiness (DVIR, DOT/state), and guiding technicians through preventive maintenance cycles to ensure routes leave safely and on time. You will partner with your Maintenance Leader to plan work, verify quality, and maintain smooth shop operations. Summit School Services companies are committed to providing high levels of transportation safety, quality, outstanding customer service, and positive employee relations, supported by corporate headquarters in Warrenville, Illinois, and over 250 local customer service centers across North America.

Requirements

• Minimum of five (5) years medium or heavy truck fleet mechanic repair experience plus a minimum of one (1) year leadership experience or training.
• Experience must be verifiable via prior employer or acceptable documentation (e.g., pay stubs, W-2, or equivalent).
• Proficient with diagnostic equipment to identify and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and A/C issues.
• Advanced technical knowledge of major vehicle components in diesel and gas equipment.
• Possess the recommended minimum hand tools for a diesel technician.
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills.
• High school graduate or equivalent education and/or training and experience.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Valid applicable state license.

Nice To Haves

• ASE Certification is desirable but not required.
• Completion of a technical or vocational training program in automotive or diesel repair.
• ASE Certifications or willingness to pursue certification is a plus.
• Prior lead technician or supervisory experience, or demonstrated leadership in a shop/fleet maintenance environment.
• Comfortable managing multiple tasks and shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient with computers and maintenance software systems.
• Strong organization, attention to detail, and effective cross-team communication.
• CDL preferred.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and repair automotive and diesel systems — including brakes, steering, suspension, drivetrains, electrical, cooling, and fuel systems — according to skill level.
• Perform engine adjustments, rebuilds, and test drives to verify quality repairs.
• Complete required safety inspections and repair sign-offs before releasing vehicles.
• Keep a safe, organized, and compliant workspace following all Federal, State, and local standards.
• Identify and report additional service needs or complex issues requiring advanced support.
• Accurately log labor hours, parts used, and completed work in the maintenance system.
• Notify leadership of unsafe conditions, equipment misuse, or vehicle abuse immediately.
• Respond to road calls and perform mobile repairs when needed.
• Model professionalism, teamwork, and integrity in every task.
• Oversee day-to-day workflow processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• medical
• dental
• vision
• basic life insurance coverage
• holiday pay
• PTO accrual
• retirement savings plan
• Professional development: Build your career with ongoing training and internal advancement opportunities.
• Training & tools: Access to industry-leading complimentary fleet/OEM training, modern diagnostic equipment, and school-bus system training
• CDL & ASE support: Company training available for mechanics; Industry-leading ASE Training & Incentive program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees