Lead Technician

National Express • Watervliet, NY

12d

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/heavy vehicles, oversee inspection readiness (DVIR, DOT/state), and guide technicians through preventive maintenance cycles so routes leave safe and on time. You’ll partner with your Maintenance Leader to plan work, verify quality, and keep the shop running smoothly.

Requirements

• Experience: 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 (CDL preferred) — Company has a free training program for mechanics.

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.

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

• Purpose with impact: Your expertise keeps students and communities moving—safely and reliably every school day.
• 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: CDL preferred—company training available for mechanics; Industry-leading ASE Training & Incentive program.
• Modern fleet focus: Predictable preventive maintenance (PM) cycles, and a safety-first culture tailored to pupil transportation. Robust telematics platform.
• We offer medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance coverage, holiday pay, and PTO accrual.
• Additionally, employees are able to enroll in a retirement savings plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED