Position: Head Mechanic
Location: Garden City Public Schools - Transportation Department
Reports To: Transportation Director (Shane Burns)
Employment Type: Full-Time Salary

Starting Salary: $54,675 - $65,032

Calendar: 261 Days LINK TO CALENDAR HERE

 

Vacation Days: 1 per Month 

Sick Days: 1 per Month

Personal Days: 2 per year

Job Summary

Garden City Public Schools is seeking a skilled and experienced Head Mechanic to oversee the maintenance and repair of all district buses and vehicles, ensuring a safe and reliable transportation fleet for students and staff. This position is responsible for diagnosing mechanical issues, performing repairs, conducting preventative maintenance, and maintaining accurate service records. Additionally, the Head Mechanic will serve as a bus driver as needed, ensuring safe transportation for students on scheduled routes.

Essential Responsibilities

Vehicle Maintenance & Repair:

• Diagnose and complete necessary repairs and replacements on school buses, district vehicles, and equipment.
• Perform routine and preventative maintenance to minimize downtime and extend vehicle lifespan.
• Maintain detailed service records and ensure compliance with all state and federal transportation regulations.
• Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair engines, transmissions, electrical systems, brakes, tires, and other mechanical components.
• Monitor inventory and order parts and supplies as needed to maintain efficient operations.

Safety & Compliance:

• Ensure all district vehicles meet safety and operational standards.
• Follow and enforce all local, state, and federal transportation regulations, including Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) guidelines.
• Perform regular inspections and prepare vehicles for annual state inspections.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Bus Driving & Student Safety:

• Serve as a bus driver when necessary, transporting students safely over scheduled routes.
• Ensure students follow safety procedures during transport, loading, and unloading.
• Communicate effectively with students, staff, and parents regarding transportation matters.

Required Qualifications:

• Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record and evidence of insurability.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Passenger (P), School Bus (S), and Air Brake endorsements.
• CPR/First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain).
• Defensive Driving Certification (or ability to obtain).
• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance and Kansas Certification of Health.
• Prior experience in vehicle maintenance, preferably with school buses or heavy equipment.
• Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lift heavy equipment and work in various weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous supervisory or leadership experience in a mechanical setting.
• Knowledge of fleet management software and inventory tracking.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should apply today! Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.

 

Join us in ensuring the safety and reliability of our district’s transportation—because at Garden City Public Schools, Everyone Leads!