Lead Diesel Mechanic

First Student; Berkeley Heights (NJ); On-site; USD 39,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wage

ASE bonus program

Company-paid ASE training

CDL training included

Benefits package

Paid holidays

Boots & safety glasses allowances

Discount program

EAP

Job summary

First Student in Berkeley Heights, NJ is seeking a Lead Diesel Mechanic to oversee preventive maintenance, diagnose complex issues, and mentor technicians. This role supports safe, reliable bus fleets and community transportation.

The ideal candidate brings 5+ years in diesel/auto maintenance, leadership experience, and CDL readiness. You will work Monday–Friday day shifts, with competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of diesel or automotive maintenance & repair experience or completed technical school education.
• Previous lead technician or supervisory experience preferred.
• Valid driver's license; willingness to obtain CDL with company training.
• Strong computer skills.
• Possess a mechanic's tool set.
• ASE certifications preferred.
• PA State Inspection certification or willingness to obtain.
• DOT drug testing compliance as safety-sensitive employee.

Responsibilities

• Oversee complex vehicle diagnostics and repairs; perform road tests when needed.
• Maintain advanced knowledge of engines, emissions, transmissions, brakes, hydraulics, electrical, and HVAC systems for preventive and repair maintenance.
• Manage inventory control, approve expenses within scope, schedule fleet maintenance, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Conduct inspections, monitor performance, and maintain adherence to federal/state standards.
• Work closely with management on maintenance status, budgets, and special projects.
• Participate in ASE certification program.
• Perform hands-on work activities as needed.

Skills

Diesel maintenance

Lead technician experience

Valid driver's license

Strong computer skills

Mechanic's tool set

ASE certifications

PA State Inspection

Education

Technical school education

Job description

First Student is now hiring a Lead Diesel Mechanic in Berkeley Heights, NJ!

Schedule: Monday-Friday, Full-time 1st shift

As a Lead Diesel Mechanic, you will ensure every vehicle runs safely, efficiently, and reliably - keeping our communities moving with confidence.

Why join First as a Lead Diesel Mechanic?

• Competitive starting hourly wage - (NOT flat rate).
• Bonus rate $.25 cents increase available for each ASE School Bus Series test passed and maintained (up to $2/hour more).
• Monday-Friday day shift schedule with consistent, year-round work.
• Company-paid ASE testing and training materials.
• Company-paid CDL Class B training and licensing.
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Advance into operational, maintenance, management, and leadership roles in over 540 locations across the U.S. & Canada!
• Excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, & 401(k).
• Paid holidays and vacation time.
• Annual allowances for boots and prescription safety glasses.
• State-of-the-art training programs.
• Discounts on cell phone plans, cars, and more through the Perk Spot program!
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.

About the Lead Diesel Mechanic Position

As a Lead Diesel Technician at First Student, you will help deliver excellence by leading the comprehensive preventive maintenance program, providing ongoing technician development, and streamlining operational practices.

Other job duties include:

• Oversee complex vehicle diagnostics and repairs; perform road tests when needed.
• Maintain advanced knowledge of engines, emissions, transmissions, brakes, hydraulics, electrical, and HVAC systems for preventive and repair maintenance.
• Manage inventory control, approve expenses within scope, schedule fleet maintenance, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Conduct inspections, monitor performance, and maintain adherence to federal/state standards.
• Work closely with management on maintenance status, budgets, and special projects.
• Participate in ASE certification program.
• Perform hands-on work activities as needed.

Lead Diesel Mechanic Qualifications:

• At least 5 years of diesel or automotive maintenance & repair experience or technical school education.
• Previous experience in a lead technician, supervisor, or other management role is preferred.
• Valid driver's license required; Willingness to obtain CDL while employed - Paid company training provided.
• Strong computer skills.
• Possess a mechanic's tool set.
• ASE certifications are preferred.
• PA State Inspection certification or willingness to obtain
• Note: This position is subject to DOT drug testing as a safety-sensitive employee. DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule I drugs, including marijuana, for any reason.

Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First Student! Make an impact in your community while enjoying day shift schedules, great pay, and unmatched support.

Language Requirement

This role requires English proficiency. Federal, state, and local requirements, including U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, require training, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications be conducted in English.

First for a reason:

At First Student, we are a family of 60,000+ employees who take pride in safely transporting more than 5 million students and passengers to and from their destinations each day! Our family of brands include Transco, Total Transportation, Maggies Paratransit, and GVC II. Our employees are at the forefront of safety and innovation; they create and implement the most advanced training and technology the transportation industry has to offer.

In the state of Washington, all technician and driving positions, including but not limited to van drivers and any other position requiring employees to drive a company-owned vehicle, are considered safety-sensitive and are therefore subject to drug and alcohol testing, including cannabis.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. First is also committed to providing a drug-free workplace. First will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, and any other fair chance law. Philadelphia's Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance Poster is at this link or upon request https://www.phila.gov/media/20210423160847/Fair-Chance-Hiring-law-poster.pdf.