Lead Technician

National Express•Des Plaines, IL

About The Position

As the Lead Fleet Technician for a school bus fleet, you’ll set the tone for safety, quality, and uptime. You’ll handle advanced diagnostics and repairs on medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, oversee inspection readiness (DVIR and DOT/state), and guide technicians through preventive maintenance cycles so routes leave safely and on time. You’ll partner with your Maintenance Leader to plan work, verify quality, and keep the shop running smoothly. Summit School Services emphasizes professional development, complimentary fleet/OEM and school-bus system training, modern diagnostic equipment, CDL training for mechanics, and ASE training and incentives. The company describes a safety-first culture, predictable preventive maintenance cycles, and a robust telematics platform. Its policies emphasize safeguarding children and passengers, and it maintains a zero-tolerance policy for conduct incompatible with its policies and values, including sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination.

Requirements

At least five years of medium- or heavy-truck fleet mechanic repair experience.
At least one year of leadership experience or training.
Experience must be verifiable through a prior employer or acceptable documentation, such as pay stubs, W-2, or equivalent.
Proficiency with diagnostic equipment for identifying and troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and air-conditioning 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, training, and/or experience.
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
Valid applicable state license; CDL is preferred. Company training is available for mechanics.
Ability to diagnose and repair automotive and diesel systems, perform engine adjustments and rebuilds, conduct test drives, and complete safety inspections and repair sign-offs.

Nice To Haves

Completion of a technical or vocational training program in automotive or diesel repair.
ASE certifications, or willingness to pursue certification.
Prior lead technician or supervisory experience, or demonstrated leadership in a shop or fleet maintenance environment.
Comfort managing multiple tasks and shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with computers and maintenance software systems.
Strong organization, attention to detail, and effective cross-team communication.
CDL preferred; company training is available for mechanics.
ASE certification is desirable but not required.

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 and rebuilds, and conduct test drives to verify repair quality.
Complete required safety inspections and repair sign-offs before releasing vehicles.
Maintain a safe, organized, and compliant workspace in accordance with 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.
Immediately notify leadership of unsafe conditions, equipment misuse, or vehicle abuse.
Respond to road calls and perform mobile repairs when needed.
Model professionalism, teamwork, and integrity.
Oversee day-to-day workflow processes.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Guide technicians through preventive maintenance cycles and oversee inspection readiness.
Partner with the Maintenance Leader to plan work, verify quality, and keep the shop running smoothly.