Bus Mechanic

New Castle Community School Corporation; New Castle (IN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement (PERF)

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Job summary

New Castle Community School Corporation seeks a School Corporation Bus Mechanic to inspect, maintain, diagnose, and repair school buses and district vehicles, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. The role supports daily transportation operations under IDOE and DOT standards.

The ideal candidate has automotive/diesel experience, school bus or fleet background, and knowledge of IDOE/DOT requirements. CDL preferred and ASE certification in Brakes/Steering/Suspension is a plus.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous automotive or diesel mechanic experience required; school bus or fleet experience preferred.
• Knowledge of IDOE school bus inspection requirements and DOT safety standards preferred.
• CDL or ability to obtain CDL within a specified timeframe preferred; ASE Certification in Brakes, Steering and Suspension.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, diagnose, maintain, and repair school buses, vans, and other district vehicles.
• Perform routine and preventive maintenance per manufacturer specifications and district schedules.
• Conduct pre-trip, post-trip, periodic, and annual inspections as required by IDOE and DOT.
• Prepare vehicles for IDOE-required annual inspections and address identified deficiencies.
• Ensure vehicles comply with DOT safety standards, including brakes, lighting, steering, suspension, tires, emergency equipment, and warning systems.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and engine systems using appropriate tools and diagnostic equipment.
• Maintain accurate maintenance, inspection, and repair records per IDOE/DOT requirements.
• Respond to vehicle breakdowns and emergency repair needs as assigned.
• Identify and report safety concerns to the Director of Transportation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment per OSHA standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned by transportation director or administration.

Skills

Automotive/diesel experience

School bus / fleet experience

Safety compliance mindset

Ability to read inspection reports

Education

High school diploma or GED

CDL preferred

ASE Certification (Brakes, Steering & Suspension)

Job description

School Corporation Bus Mechanic

Position Type:

Full-Time

Location:

Transportation Department / Bus Garage

Reports To:

Assistant Superintendent and Director of Transportation

Position Summary

The School Corporation Mechanic is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of school buses and other district-owned vehicles to ensure safe, reliable, and compliant transportation for students and staff. This position ensures all vehicles meet Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and supports daily transportation operations in accordance with state and federal safety standards.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Inspect, diagnose, maintain, and repair school buses, vans, and other district vehicles
• Perform routine and preventative maintenance in accordance with manufacturer specifications and district schedules
• Conduct and document pre-trip, post-trip, periodic, and annual vehicle inspections as required by IDOE and DOT regulations
• Prepare school buses and other regulated vehicles for IDOE-required annual inspections and address any identified deficiencies
• Ensure vehicles comply with DOT safety standards, including brakes, lighting, steering, suspension, tires, emergency equipment, and warning systems
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and engine systems using appropriate tools and diagnostic equipment
• Maintain accurate and timely vehicle maintenance, inspection, and repair records in compliance with IDOE and DOT documentation requirements
• Respond to vehicle breakdowns and emergency repair needs as assigned
• Identify and report safety concerns or compliance issues to the Director of Transportation
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with OSHA and district safety standards
• Perform other duties as assigned by transportation director or administration

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Previous experience as an automotive or diesel mechanic required; school bus or fleet experience preferred
• Working knowledge of IDOE school bus inspection requirements and DOT vehicle safety standards preferred
• Ability to interpret inspection reports, compliance checklists, and manufacturer service bulletins
• Valid Indiana driver’s license required; Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or ability to obtain CDL within a specified timeframe preferred, ASE Certified in Brakes, Steering and Suspension
• Ability to meet all DOT physical, drug and alcohol testing, and background check requirements, as applicable
• Strong attention to detail with a demonstrated commitment to safety and regulatory compliance

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, climb, and work in confined spaces
• Ability to work in a maintenance shop environment with exposure to noise, fumes, weather conditions, and mechanical equipment

Work Schedule

• Monday–Friday; full-time
• Occasional evenings, early mornings, or emergency call-outs as needed to support transportation operations

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience

Benefits package includes health insurance, retirement (PERF), paid time off, and paid holidays