Lead Diesel Mechanic

First Student, Inc.; Gulfport (MS); On-site; USD 39,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401(k)

Paid holidays

Job summary

First Student, Inc. in Gulfport, MS is hiring a Lead Diesel Technician (Tech in Charge) to lead preventive maintenance and ensure vehicles run safely and reliably for our community. You will oversee diagnostics, mentor shop staff, manage parts and schedules, and coordinate with management on budgets and projects.

This is a full-time day-shift role with comprehensive training. We offer strong benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), holidays, vacation, and generous perquisites for ASE

Qualifications

• 5+ years of diesel or automotive maintenance & repair experience or technical school education.
• Previous experience in a lead technician, supervisor, or management role is preferred.
• Valid driver’s license; willing to obtain CDL during employment (training provided).
• Strong computer skills and mechanical toolkit ownership.
• ASE certifications are preferred.

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.
• Supervise shop technicians; conduct daily huddles, training, and performance evaluations.
• Manage inventory, scheduling, expenses within scope, and safety/compliance.
• Coordinate with management on maintenance status, budgets, and special projects.
• Participate in ASE certification programs and hands-on work as needed.

Skills

Diesel/auto exp

Leadership

Computer skills

Tool set

ASE certifications

Job description

First Student is now hiring a Lead Diesel Technician for our shop serving Gulfport, MS!

Hours/Schedule: Monday-Friday, Full-time day shift

As a Lead Diesel Technician (Tech in Charge), you will ensure every vehicle runs safely, efficiently, and reliably - keeping our communities moving with confidence.

Why join First as a Lead Diesel Mechanic?

• Pay Details: Dependent on experience and qualifications.
• Hourly Rate: $29.50 per hour (NOT flat rate).
• Bonus rate 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 Technician 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.
• Supervise shop technicians, conduct daily huddles, training, performance evaluations, and assist with hiring decisions.
• 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 Technician 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.
• 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.