Lead Mechanic

Young World Physical Education

Walker (MI)

On-site

USD 50,000 - 65,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

Kenowa Hills Public Schools is seeking a Lead Mechanic to manage the maintenance of the district's bus fleet. This full-time position requires strong leadership skills and knowledge of state and federal transportation regulations.

The ideal candidate will perform diagnostics, repairs, and preventative maintenance while supervising mechanics. A valid CDL and five years of relevant experience are essential for this role, along with a focus on safety and compliance with transportation standards.

Qualifications

Five years of experience in school bus, diesel, or fleet maintenance required.
Experience with inventory management and shop safety appreciated.
Proficient in transportation software and diagnostic systems preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinate maintenance operations for the bus fleet and transportation equipment.
Perform advanced diagnostics and preventative maintenance on vehicles.
Supervise, train, and support mechanics and shop personnel.

Skills

Diagnostic and repair skills

Leadership experience

Ability to manage multiple priorities

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Vocational or technical training in diesel, automotive, or heavy equipment repair

Tools

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

ASE Medium/Heavy Truck Certifications

Job description

Lead Mechanic

Kenowa Hills Public Schools – Walker, Michigan

Job Details

Job ID: 5741615

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Posted: May 27, 2026 4:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Notice of Vacancy

Position: Lead Mechanic

Location: Transportation Department / Bus Garage

Schedule: Full-Time, Year-Round

Rate of Pay: Per Board Authorized Pay schedule

Reports To: Director of Transportation

Summary

Kenowa Hills Public Schools seeks an experienced, organized, and safety-focused professional to serve as Lead Mechanic for the district’s Transportation Department. This position oversees daily maintenance operations and supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the district’s school bus fleet and transportation vehicles.

The ideal candidate will possess strong diagnostic and repair skills, knowledge of state and federal transportation regulations, leadership experience, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required; vocational or technical training in diesel, automotive, or heavy equipment repair preferred
Minimum of five (5) years of experience in school bus, diesel, heavy truck, or fleet maintenance
Lead mechanic, supervisory, or shop coordination experience preferred
Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements required, or ability to obtain within a district‑established timeline
Ability to pass and maintain annual Department of Transportation (DOT) physical requirements
Michigan School Bus Mechanic Certifications and/or experience related to:
- Brake systems
- Steering and suspension
- Diesel and gas engines
- Electrical and fuel systems
- Preventative maintenance inspections
- Heating, air, and hydraulic systems
- Drive train and transmission systems
ASE Medium/Heavy Truck Certifications preferred
Knowledge of Michigan pupil transportation regulations, bus inspection requirements, and preventative maintenance programs preferred
Experience with inventory management, purchasing, shop safety, and maintenance record systems
Ability to supervise, train, and support mechanics and transportation staff
Ability to prioritize tasks, work independently, and respond effectively to operational needs and emergencies
Proficiency with transportation software, diagnostic systems, repair manuals, and computerized maintenance tracking systems preferred
Michigan School Bus Inspector Certification preferred or ability to obtain within a district‑established timeline
Basic welding and fabrication experience preferred

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Coordinate maintenance operations for the district’s bus fleet, vehicles, and transportation equipment
Perform advanced diagnostics, repairs, inspections, and preventative maintenance
Assist in developing and maintaining preventative maintenance schedules and procedures
Ensure compliance with all local, state, federal, and Michigan Department of Education transportation safety standards
Prepare vehicles for required inspections and compliance reviews
Maintain maintenance records, repair histories, inspection documentation, and operating cost reports
Supervise, train, and support mechanics and shop personnel
Promote professionalism, safety, and positive communication within the department
Assist in evaluating transportation shop personnel
Maintain inventory of parts, tools, fuel, equipment, and supplies
Assist with purchasing recommendations for vehicles, equipment, tools, and repair parts
Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient shop environment
Respond to transportation emergencies, breakdowns, and urgent repair needs, including outside regular work hours as needed
Collaborate effectively with transportation staff, administrators, vendors, and service providers
Train staff on vehicle safety procedures and equipment operation
Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Transportation

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to:

Stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, crawl, twist, and reach frequently
Work underneath, inside, and around buses and district vehicles for extended periods
Lift, carry, push, and pull equipment and vehicle parts weighing up to 75 pounds
Safely operate hand tools, power tools, hydraulic lifts, jacks, and diagnostic equipment
Climb into buses, under vehicles, and onto ladders safely
Perform repetitive hand and arm motions during repairs
Operate district vehicles and buses in varying weather and road conditions
Communicate effectively with staff, vendors, drivers, and administrators

Work Environment

Work conditions may include:

Exposure to loud noise, vibrations, dust, fumes, grease, fuel, oils, chemicals, and cleaning agents
Indoor and outdoor work in varying Michigan weather conditions
Exposure to moving mechanical parts and vehicle traffic
Frequent interruptions, changing priorities, and emergency repair situations

This role also requires the ability to maintain a safe and organized work environment, respond calmly during emergencies, and collaborate effectively in a fast‑paced setting.

Work Location Requirement

This is an in‑person position requiring regular on‑site attendance. The essential functions of this role cannot be performed remotely.

Note to Applicants

Pursuant to PA 131, the selected candidate must receive clearance from the Michigan State Police Department prior to employment. The candidate is responsible for the background check fee.

Notice of Non‑Discrimination

Kenowa Hills Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), age, disability, height, weight, marital status, genetic information, military status, or any other legally protected status in its programs, services, activities, or employment opportunities.

Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies should be directed to:

Director of Human Resources
Kenowa Hills Public Schools
2325 Four Mile Road NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49544
Phone: 616‑784‑2511

Applicants requiring accommodations during the application or interview process are encouraged to contact Human Resources.

Position Type

Full‑Time

Job Requirements