Fleet Manager

Position Summary:

Here at Divergent Transportation, we are a family orientated company that believes all team members should be appreciated and rewarded for their valuable service to our clients, students and passenger transportation needs based in Michigan, dedicated to serving schools, districts, and communities. The organization focuses on providing reliable, safe, and efficient transportation solutions that help educational institutions address service challenges. By partnering closely with schools and districts, Divergent allows team members to join a mission-driven environment where safety, service quality, and community impact are central to daily work.

As the Fleet Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the maintenance, safety, compliance, and operational readiness of the company's transportation fleet. This position ensures all company school buses and support vehicles are maintained to the highest safety standards, comply with state and federal regulations, and are available to support daily student transportation needs.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the preventive maintenance and repair program for all school buses and support vehicles.
• Ensure all vehicles meet federal, state, and local safety inspection requirements.
• Schedule and monitor vehicle inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities to minimize downtime.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, service histories, warranties, and vehicle documentation.
• Monitor fleet performance, reliability, and vehicle utilization.
• Coordinate emergency repairs and roadside assistance as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable Department of Transportation (DOT), state pupil transportation, OSHA, and environmental regulations.
• Develop and implement vehicle safety programs and maintenance standards.
• Conduct regular audits of maintenance practices and fleet safety procedures.
• Investigate vehicle-related accidents, breakdowns, and safety incidents, implementing corrective actions when necessary.
• Maintain records required for regulatory inspections and audits.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate mechanics, techniques, technicians, and maintenance personnel.
• Establish work schedules and daily tasks.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Identify training needs and coordinate professional development opportunities.
• Develop cost effective maintenance repair solutions.
• Monitor expenditures related to labor, fuel, parts, equipment, and contracted services.
• Prepare reports and recommendations regarding fleet condition and capital replacement needs.
• Collaborate with transportation supervisors and dispatch staff to ensure vehicle availability for daily routes, field trips, events, and special programs.
• Support transportation operations during emergencies, severe weather events, and service disruptions.
• Participate in transportation planning and operational improvement initiatives.

• Strong knowledge of diesel engine systems, vehicle maintenance practices, and school bus safety standards.
• Familiarity with state pupil transportation regulations and DOT compliance requirements.
• Proficiency with fleet management and maintenance software systems.
• Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to respond effectively to emergencies and operational challenges.
• Exposure to vehicle maintenance equipment, diesel engines, and varying outdoor conditions.
• May require occasional evening, weekend, or emergency response work.
• Perform the physical requirements of the job, which include bending, kneeling, climbing, lifting, etc.
• Valid driver's license and (CDL).
• Nice to have but not required (P&S) endorsement.
• Pass a background and drug screen.

Education and Experience:

• Associate or bachelor's degree in Transportation Management, Automotive Technology, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in fleet maintenance, transportation operations, or vehicle maintenance management.
• Experience managing school bus fleets or commercial transportation fleets preferred.
• Supervisory experience managing maintenance personnel.
• ASE certifications or equivalent maintenance certifications preferred.
• Certified Fleet Manager certification (CFM) preferred.