Diesel Bus Mechanic - $5k Sign-On + CDL Training

Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 62,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

401(k) with company contribution

Paid time off

Tuition/training reimbursement

Job summary

Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) in Ithaca, NY is seeking a Diesel Mechanic with experience in transit diesel engines to join our 24/7 maintenance team. The role focuses on preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs from engines to air brakes, with strong emphasis on safety and reliability.

You will work in a unionized shop with clear priorities, receive training, and have opportunities for growth into leadership positions.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience repairing diesel engines in a transit environment.
• Previous heavy-duty or automotive experience and relevant certifications will be considered!
• Experience in airbrake diagnosis and repair.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to read and follow written instructions.
• Ability to work with a team as well as independently.
• Proficiency with computers and sensor tools is a must. The successful candidate must provide their own tools.

Responsibilities

• Join a tight, unionized maintenance team that keeps our bus fleet safe, reliable, and road ready. You’ll handle preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs — everything from electrical troubleshooting to major components like engines, transmissions, differentials, and air brakes.
• You’ll have solid administrative support, clear priorities, and steady workflow. Tell us what you need, and we’ll make sure you can get the job done efficiently.
• Interested in long term growth? We have a well defined path for mechanics who want to develop mastery, mentor others, or step into a shift leadership role.

Skills

Diesel engine repair

Safety awareness

Team collaboration

Technical reading

Computers & sensor tools

Job description

Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) in Ithaca, NY is seeking a Diesel Mechanic with experience in transit diesel engines to join our 24/7 maintenance team. The role focuses on preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs from engines to air brakes, with strong emphasis on safety and reliability.

You will work in a unionized shop with clear priorities, receive training, and have opportunities for growth into leadership positions.