MECHANIC SHOP FOREMAN

Mechanic Shop Foreman - School System Transportation Department

Position Title: Shop Foreman

Department: Transportation

Reports To: Transportation Director

FLSA Status: Exempt

Pay Grade: T

Position Summary

The Mechanic Shop Foreman oversees the daily operations of the school district's School Bus maintenance shop. This position provides leadership, technical expertise and coordination to ensure safe, reliable and compliant operation of the district's bus and fleet vehicles. The Foreman assists with scheduling, supervising mechanics, performing advanced diagnostics/repairs and ensuring adherence to state and federal safety standards.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Leadership & Supervision

• Assigns, prioritizes, and monitors daily work orders for mechanics and service.
• Provides on-the-job training, guidance, and performance feedback to shop staff.
• Ensures proper staffing coverage including coordinating leave, overtime, and scheduling.
• Promotes a safe, professional, and team-oriented work environment.

Maintenance & Repair Operations

• Performs advanced diagnostics and repairs on diesel and gasoline engines, electrical systems, transmissions, brakes, HVAC systems, and safety equipment.
• Oversees preventive maintenance schedules for all district buses and fleet.
• Conducts post-repair inspections to ensure quality and compliance with state transportation standards.
• Responds to roadside breakdowns as needed.
• Maintains School Bus GPS and Radio communication devices to ensure good working order.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensures all repairs meet state pupil transportation requirements and federal safety standards.
• Maintains accurate and timely maintenance records, inspections, and documentation.
• Monitors shop safety practices, equipment use, and hazardous materials.
• Coordinates with state inspectors during annual or random fleet inspections.

Inventory & Equipment Management

• Oversees parts, supplies, fuel, and equipment inventory; initiates restocking as needed.
• Recommends purchase of tools, diagnostic equipment, and shop supplies.
• Ensures all shop equipment is maintained and compliant with safety regulations.

Communication & Coordination

• Communicates daily with drivers, mechanics, transportation leadership, and school staff.
• Supports route operations by ensuring buses are ready, safe, and maintained.
• Provides input on vehicle replacement planning and long-term fleet management.
• Assists with accident investigations involving mechanical failure.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of diesel and gasoline engines, electrical and hydraulic systems, and school bus safety systems.
• Ability to read technical manuals, diagnostic software, and wiring diagrams.
• Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills.
• Understanding of state pupil transportation safety regulations.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects under deadlines.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical/vocational training in automotive or diesel technology preferred.
• Five (5) years of experience as a bus or heavy-duty vehicle mechanic; supervisory experience preferred.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (Class A CDL) with P and S endorsements.
• State school bus inspector certification or ability to obtain within required timeframe.
• Clean driving record and ability to pass pre-employment and random drug/alcohol testing.

Working Conditions

• Primarily shop environment with exposure to noise, chemicals, and mechanical hazards.
• Requires lifting up to 50 lbs., climbing, stooping, crawling, and working outdoors in varying conditions.
• On-call or after-hours work may be required for emergencies or weather-related events.