Transportation Director & Bus Mechanic

Job Title: Transportation Director & Bus Mechanic Position Summary White County Central School District is taking applications for a Transportation Director & Bus Mechanic which is responsible for the overall leadership, coordination, and operation of the school district’s student transportation program while also performing hands-on maintenance, diagnostics, and repair of the district’s school bus fleet. This role will need to ensure that all transportation services are safe, reliable, cost-effective, and compliant with federal, state, and local regulations. This position requires strong leadership, technical expertise in diesel and school bus systems, and the ability to balance administrative responsibilities with daily mechanical and operational tasks. Bus Mechanic/Transportation Director. This position will require a candidate to perform routine maintenance as well as repairs to the fleet of buses and vehicles owned by the district. The candidate must also possess the skill set to efficiently run the transportation department as they deal with routes, school trips, and keep accurate records of all bus drivers within the district. Experience in a school setting is preferred. Any candidates which are interested in the position should email their resumes to HR director, Kelly Tucker or Superintendent Pharis Smith. Their email addresses are ktucker@wccbears.org or psmith@wccbears.org. Reports To Superintendent or Designee Supervises Bus Drivers and all bus records Essential Duties and Responsibilities Transportation Director Responsibilities Plan, organize, direct, and evaluate all aspects of the district’s transportation program. Develop and manage bus routes and schedules to ensure safe, efficient, and timely transportation of students. Manage sub drivers and ensure routes are covered. Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate bus drivers. Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local transportation laws, regulations, and school district policies. Maintain required transportation records, reports, inspections, and documentation. Develop and manage the transportation department budget, including fuel, maintenance, parts, and replacement planning. Investigate and document transportation-related incidents and accidents; coordinate required reporting and follow-up. Establish and enforce safety procedures and emergency protocols for transportation operations. Serve as the primary liaison between the transportation department, school administrators, parents, and regulatory agencies. Coordinate transportation for regular routes, school trips, extracurricular activities, and special events. Bus Mechanic Responsibilities Perform preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on school buses and related equipment. Inspect buses regularly to ensure compliance with safety standards and state inspection requirements. Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and diesel engine systems. Maintain accurate maintenance and repair records for all vehicles. Order, inventory, and manage parts, tools, and maintenance supplies. Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections as needed and address reported mechanical issues. Remove buses from service when safety concerns are identified and return them to service upon repair. Ensure shop equipment is maintained in safe and operable condition. Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a School Bus license endorsement (Minimum Class B) with passenger, school bus, and air brakes certifications is required. Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger (P) and air brake (X) endorsements is required. Demonstrated experience in school bus or heavy-duty vehicle maintenance and repair. Working knowledge of diesel engines, braking systems, electrical systems, and preventative maintenance practices. Knowledge of school transportation laws, safety standards, and compliance requirements. Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills. Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare reports. Ability to pass required background checks, physicals, and drug/alcohol testing. Preferred Qualifications Associate degree or technical certification in diesel mechanics or a related field. Previous experience supervising transportation staff in a school district or similar environment. ASE certifications in diesel/bus repair. Experience with routing software and fleet management systems. Physical and Work Requirements Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds. Ability to work in a shop environment with exposure to noise, fumes, and varying temperatures. Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel, and work under vehicles for extended periods. Occasional evening or early morning hours as required for school schedules and emergencies. Employment Terms Full-time, year-round position. Salary and benefits commensurate with experience and district policy. Disclaimer This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned by the Superintendent or designee. White County Central is an Equal Opportunities Employer.