School Bus Diesel Mechanic
Position Summary
Mid Columbia Bus Company is seeking a skilled and motivated diesel technician to join our growing maintenance team. This role is responsible for diagnosing, repairing, inspecting, and maintaining school buses, motor coaches, and commercial fleet vehicles to ensure the highest standards of safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance.
Technicians play a vital role in keeping our fleet safe for passengers, drivers, and the communities we are grateful to serve.
Key Responsibilities
- Effectively diagnose, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain school buses, motorcoaches, and fleet vehicles
- Perform preventive maintenance and DOT/state inspections
- Service and repair key systems, including:
- Diesel and gasoline engines
- Electrical and multiplex systems
- Air and hydraulic brake systems
- Steering, suspension, and drivetrains
- HVAC and auxiliary systems
- Complete recalls, warranty work, and manufacturer repair campaigns
- Review and act on Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs)
- Interpret diagnostic software, wiring diagrams, manuals, and parts catalogs
- Document all repairs, inspections, labor, and parts usage accurately
- Assist with parts identification and ordering
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized shop environment
- Support shop productivity, efficiency, and uptime goals
- Safely move and operate vehicles on company property
- Collaborate with team members and communicate effectively with leadership
- Mentor and support the development of junior technicians as needed
- Participate in ongoing training and skill development
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Associate degree in diesel technology or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience
- Minimum of 2 years of heavy-duty diesel, truck, or bus repair experience preferred
- Experience with school buses or motor coaches is a plus
- CDL Class A or B with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements (or ability to obtain)
- Ability to meet DOT medical requirements
Skills & Attributes
- Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting abilities
- Solid understanding of diesel systems, electrical systems, brakes, HVAC, and drivetrains
- Ability to read and interpret technical documents and schematics
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management skills
- Committed to safety, quality, and professionalism
- Dependable, accountable, and adaptable
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn and grow
Tools & Work Environment
- Technicians are expected to provide their own standard hand tools
- Mid Columbia Bus Company provides specialized shop equipment
- Team-oriented, safety-first shop with a focus on cleanliness and efficiency
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay based on experience and performance, up to $35/hr!
- Full-time, Over-time eligible hourly employment
- Comprehensive benefits package available, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with matching
- Paid time off and holidays
- Ongoing training and advancement opportunities
The Company has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the Company reserves the right to change this job description and / or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as the Company may deem appropriate