Maintenance Supervisor

Sunrise Transportation; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Sunrise Transportation is looking for an experienced Maintenance Supervisor in Chicago, IL, to lead the maintenance department for their school bus fleet. The role involves supervising daily operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enhancing vehicle uptime.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience in fleet maintenance, strong leadership skills, and a valid driver's license. Offering a salary range of $75,000 – $85,000 a year, this position promises a dynamic work environment with various responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of fleet maintenance experience.
• Minimum of two years of supervisory experience in fleet maintenance or transportation.
• Experience maintaining school buses or heavy-duty equipment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supervise the daily activities of maintenance technicians.
• Ensure compliance with safety policies and regulations.
• Monitor vehicle downtime and implement improvement strategies.

Skills

Strong leadership

Knowledge of diesel engines

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree or technical certification

Tools

Maintenance management software

Microsoft Office applications

Job description

Location: Chicago, IL 60620; Salary Range: $75,000.00 - $85,000.00 a year.

Sunrise Transportation is seeking an experienced and hands‑on Maintenance Supervisor to provide leadership and oversight of the maintenance department. This position is responsible for supervising daily fleet maintenance operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, maximizing vehicle uptime, and supporting the safe and efficient operation of the company’s school bus fleet.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct the daily activities of maintenance technicians and support staff.
• Coordinate and prioritize preventive maintenance schedules, inspections, and repairs for the fleet.
• Ensure all fleet maintenance activities comply with DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, state, and local regulations.
• Monitor vehicle downtime and implement strategies to improve fleet reliability and operational efficiency.
• Review and approve work orders, repair documentation, and maintenance records.
• Manage parts inventory and coordinate ordering of supplies and equipment as needed.
• Ensure accurate maintenance records are maintained within the company’s fleet management system.
• Coordinate with Operations and Dispatch regarding vehicle availability and service needs.
• Conduct regular inspections of the maintenance facility and equipment to ensure a safe working environment.
• Assist with troubleshooting complex mechanical issues and provide technical guidance to technicians.
• Monitor maintenance expenses and assist in managing departmental budgets and cost controls.
• Ensure compliance with company safety policies and procedures and promote a culture of safety.
• Participate in accident investigations and coordinate vehicle damage assessments and repairs.
• Support recruiting, onboarding, training, coaching, and performance management of maintenance employees.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support business operations.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Directly supervises:
  • Diesel Technicians
  • Parts Personnel (if applicable)
• Interviewing and training employees
• Assigning and directing work
• Addressing complaints and resolving problems
• Conducting performance evaluations
• Providing coaching and corrective action when necessary

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree or technical certification in Diesel Technology, Automotive Technology, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of fleet maintenance experience.
• Minimum of two (2) years of supervisory experience in fleet maintenance, transportation, or a related industry preferred.
• Experience maintaining school buses, commercial vehicles, or heavy‑duty equipment strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of diesel engines, electrical systems, hydraulics, and preventive maintenance practices.
• Working knowledge of DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, and state transportation regulations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency with maintenance management software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to analyze data and make sound operational decisions.
• Excellent problem‑solving and customer service skills.

Certificates, Licenses & Requirements

• Valid driver's license required.
• Ability to pass all required background checks, drug screenings, and motor vehicle record requirements.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, push, and pull for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions and maintenance shop environments.
• Ability to inspect vehicles and equipment, including climbing, kneeling, and reaching.

Work Environment

Work is performed in both an office and maintenance shop environment with exposure to moving mechanical parts, noise, fumes, and varying weather conditions.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and qualifications required. Management reserves the right to modify the duties and responsibilities of this position as business needs require.