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Mechanic
Job Location:
Job Location:
Grand Rapids, MI - USA
Monthly Salary:
Not provided by the employer
Monthly Salary:
Posted:
29 September 2026 (5 days ago)
Posted:
Application Deadline:
27 December 2026
Application Deadline:
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Vacancies:
Department:
Job Summary
POSITION: Second Mechanic (Apprentice to Lead Mechanic)
LOCATION: Transportation Department
SCHEDULE: Full-Time Year-Round Position
REPORTS TO: Lead Mechanic and Director of Transportation
SALARY/BENEFITS: Hourly; Per Board Authorization
POSITION SUMMARY
Kenowa Hills Public Schools is seeking a motivated mechanically inclined individual to serve as Second Mechanic (Apprentice to Lead Mechanic) within the Transportation Department. This position works under the direction of the Lead Mechanic to inspect maintain diagnose and repair the districts school bus fleet and other transportation vehicles.
The successful candidate will develop the knowledge certifications and experience necessary to become a highly skilled school bus mechanic while helping ensure the safety reliability and regulatory compliance of the districts transportation fleet. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an individual seeking to advance into a lead mechanic role while working in a collaborative and student-focused environment.
QUALIFICATIONS
- High School Diploma or GED required
- Technical training in diesel mechanics automotive technology heavy equipment repair or a related field preferred
- Experience working with diesel engines heavy-duty vehicles commercial vehicles school buses or automotive repair preferred
- Valid Michigan Drivers License required
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements required
- Ability to obtain and maintain all State of Michigan school bus mechanic certifications required for the position
- Ability to pass all required DOT physical examinations and drug/alcohol testing requirements
- Basic computer skills required for fleet management software maintenance tracking systems and work order documentation
- Strong mechanical aptitude troubleshooting skills and willingness to learn
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a transportation team
- Excellent attendance reliability and work ethic required
- Ability to communicate effectively with transportation staff administrators vendors and service providers
- Commitment to maintaining a safe and professional work environment
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Fleet Maintenance and Repair
- Assist the Lead Mechanic in maintaining the districts school bus fleet support vehicles and transportation equipment
- Perform preventative maintenance inspections and scheduled service activities on buses and district vehicles
- Conduct oil changes lubrication fluid checks tire maintenance brake inspections filter replacement battery testing and related maintenance procedures
- Learn to diagnose troubleshoot and repair diesel engines transmissions brakes steering systems suspension systems electrical systems HVAC systems hydraulic systems and pneumatic systems
- Assist in preparing vehicles for state inspections and regulatory compliance reviews
- Respond to road calls emergency breakdowns and transportation-related service needs as assigned
- Assist with vehicle recovery and emergency repairs when necessary
Safety and Compliance
- Maintain compliance with all Michigan Department of Education Michigan State Police DOT OSHA and district transportation requirements
- Ensure vehicles meet all applicable safety standards and inspection requirements
- Assist with documenting maintenance activities repairs inspections and compliance records
- Follow all safety procedures regarding equipment operation hazardous materials shop practices and vehicle maintenance
- Properly utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) and shop safety equipment
Shop Operations
- Must provide and maintain a complete set of standard mechanic hand tools appropriate for performing school bus and heavy-duty vehicle maintenance and repairs.
- Maintain a clean organized and safe work environment
- Properly use maintain and secure tools diagnostic equipment and shop machinery
- Assist with inventory control parts ordering receiving shipments and maintaining shop supplies
- Collaborate with drivers and transportation staff to identify document and resolve vehicle concerns
- Participate in ongoing technical training certification programs and professional development activities
- Assist with snow removal equipment grounds equipment and other district vehicles as assigned
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Lead Mechanic or Director of Transportation
KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of basic diesel engine systems and vehicle maintenance practices preferred
- Ability to diagnose mechanical and electrical problems using diagnostic tools and equipment
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
- Ability to read service manuals technical diagrams maintenance schedules and repair instructions
- Ability to prioritize tasks and respond effectively to changing operational needs
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with staff vendors and contractors
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
WORK LOCATION REQUIREMENT
This position is an in-person position requiring regular on-site attendance. The essential functions of this position involve hands-on vehicle inspection maintenance repair and transportation support services and therefore cannot be performed remotely.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This position requires the ability to:
- Frequently stand walk bend squat kneel crawl climb stoop reach twist and work in confined spaces
- Work underneath around and inside buses and heavy vehicles
- Lift carry push pull and move parts tools tires batteries and equipment weighing up to 75 pounds with occasional assistance for heavier items
- Operate power tools hand tools diagnostic equipment lifts jacks and shop equipment
- Climb ladders and bus access points
- Frequently use hands fingers arms and shoulders for repetitive mechanical work
- Distinguish colors gauges warning indicators wiring diagrams and diagnostic displays
- Safely operate district vehicles and school buses as needed
- Work indoors and outdoors in varying temperatures and weather conditions
The work environment may include:
- Exposure to moving mechanical equipment vehicle exhaust fuels lubricants cleaning chemicals and shop noise
- Working in hot cold humid dusty or noisy conditions
- Exposure to emergency repair situations requiring schedule flexibility
- Frequent interruptions and changing priorities
NOTE TO APPLICANTS
Pursuant to PA 131 the selected candidate must receive clearance from the Michigan State Police Department prior to employment through Livescan fingerprinting. The candidate is responsible for the fingerprinting background check fee.
About Company
Kenowa Hills Public Schools values, supports, & empowers every student every day! With buildings to serve our youngest Knights in child care, through high school graduation, there is something for everyone at KHPS.
