What are the responsibilities and job description for the School Bus Fleet Diesel Powertrain Specialist position at LAUNCH?
Make Every Route Run Right
Step into a day where you keep a community moving. Based in Kankakee, IL, you’ll open the shop on a Monday–Friday, first-shift schedule and take ownership of a bus fleet that relies on your skill and care. From quick turn maintenance to full system overhauls, your craftsmanship keeps students safe and on time.
What your day looks like
- Start with inspections, triaging a mix of gasoline and diesel school buses for routine service and urgent repairs.
- Diagnose mechanical concerns and execute a preventive maintenance plan that prevents downtime.
- Perform engine and transmission work — from minor fixes to major overhauls.
- Service brakes, air compressors, fuel/ignition systems, HVAC, and wheelchair lifts.
- Maintain and repair vehicle A/C units; support compliance through DOT inspections and repairs.
- Document all work precisely, tracking time and materials.
What you’ll bring
- Hands-on medium-duty bus background; International Truck/Bus experience preferred.
- Your own complete tool set.
- Working knowledge of pupil transportation regulations, including IDOT inspection standards.
- CDL Class B with air brake endorsement preferred.
- A/C Certification preferred.
- Clear, professional communication with internal teams and outside partners.
- Calm under pressure, deadline-driven, and customer-service oriented.
- Self-directed; able to take a job from intake to quality finish.
Technical strengths
- Electrical Systems Diagnostics & Repair
- Engine Performance & Drivability
- Diesel Engine Systems
- Suspension and Steering
- Electrical / Electronic Systems
- Light Vehicle Diesel Engines
Compensation
$30–$40 per hour, commensurate with experience.
Location & Schedule
Kankakee, IL | First shift, Monday–Friday
Legal and physical requirements
Inserted verbatim from the job posting:
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
- Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance as attendance is an essential function of the position
- Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone
- Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs
Salary : $30 - $38