Diesel Technician I

North America Central School Bus; Charleston (IL); On-site; USD 33,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Certification incentives

Sign-on bonus

Boot allowance

401(k) match

Health insurance

PTO

Career growth

Safety-focused team

Growth opportunities

Meaningful work

Job summary

Illinois Central School Bus is seeking a skilled diesel mechanic in Charleston, IL. You will maintain and repair school buses and company vehicles, diagnose mechanical and electrical issues, and perform preventive maintenance to keep buses safe and road-ready.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years of mechanical experience (diesel/heavy vehicles preferred), a high school diploma, and a CDL Class B with Passenger endorsement or the ability to obtain it within 60 days.

Qualifications

• 5 years of mechanical experience (diesel or heavy vehicle preferred).
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• CDL Class B with Passenger endorsement—or ability to obtain within 60 days.
• Strong communication skills and a professional attitude.
• Ability to work early morning shifts.
• Basic computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance and repairs on school buses and company vehicles.
• Diagnose mechanical and electrical issues.
• Complete preventative maintenance, brake work, tune‑ups, and safety inspections.
• Test drive vehicles to verify repairs.
• Maintain accurate repair and parts records.
• Support and mentor teammates as skill level increases.

Skills

Mechanical experience

Strong communication skills

Early morning shifts

Basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma

CDL Class B with Passenger endorsement

Job description

Join a team that keeps our community moving.

The Bus Is Here! Every day, Illinois Central's fleet helps students get safely to and from school, and our Diesel Mechanics make it all possible. If you're a skilled, dependable technician who takes pride in keeping vehicles safe, reliable, and road-ready, we want you on the Illinois Central School Bus team. Build a rewarding career where your expertise makes a difference in the lives of students and families throughout our community.

What You’ll Do

• Perform maintenance and repairs on school buses and company vehicles
• Diagnose mechanical and electrical issues
• Complete preventative maintenance, brake work, tune‑ups, and safety inspections
• Test drive vehicles to verify repairs
• Maintain accurate repair and parts records
• Support and mentor teammates as skill level increases

What You Need

• 5 years of mechanical experience(diesel or heavy vehicle preferred)
• High school diploma or equivalent
• CDL Class B with Passenger endorsement—or ability to obtain within 60 days
• Strong communication skills and a professional attitude
• Ability to work early morning shifts
• Basic computer skills

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Competitive Pay Range: Up to $39 per hour (based on experience and Certifications) *
• NASCB CertificationIncentives up to $5.00 extra per hour*
• $2,000 Sign-On Bonus*
• $1,000 boot, tool and eyeglass allowance*
• 401(k) with company match*
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off & holidays
• Career growth opportunities
• A supportive team focused on safety and community impact
• Opportunities to grow into higher technician levels
• Meaningful work that helps keep students safe

Work Environment

• Shop/garage, bus yard, and occasional road support
• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs., crouch, bend, climb, and use hand tools

• Must pass DOT physical and meet drug‑free workplace requirements

*See location for details

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.