[2025 - 2026] Transportation Mechanic II

Organizational Overview

Every School. Every Student. Every Day.

Knowledge is Power Program (KIPP) North Carolina, is a network of eight tuition-free, college-preparatory public charter schools educating approximately 3,000 students in grades K-12 in Durham, Halifax, Northampton and Mecklenburg counties. At KIPP NC, we are committed to improving the life outcomes of North Carolina’s children through rigorous, research-based curricula clearing the paths that our students choose to follow by ensuring that they have the roadmaps and guideposts they need to arrive at success - however they define it.

At KIPP, we see the gifts in everyone who walks through the doors of our schools. Especially our transportation staff. Their skill. Energy. Love. Their determination. On the good days and on the hard days. So we support our transportation staff to make the most of those gifts. It starts with respect – for our staffs' innate talents and desire to learn, for their professional growth and the lives they lead beyond our walls. We offer pay and benefits that reflect our appreciation for the invaluable role they play in lighting paths to opportunity for our students and creating a safe environment. And as they progress through the day, the year and their careers, we ensure they always feel the KIPP Team and Family at their backs, with opportunities to lead, and support to grow. 

Together, our students, schools, families and communities share an ambitious mission to create a future without limits. And the only way to realize it is with talented teachers and social workers like you. Shape the future, for your students and yourself, by joining KIPP today.

ROLE OVERVIEW

Reporting to the Shop Foreman and accountable to the Director of Transportation, the Transportation Mechanic II performs advanced mechanical, electrical, and diagnostic work on school buses and other transportation vehicles. This role serves as a technical lead within the shop, mentoring junior mechanics and supporting preventive maintenance programs to ensure fleet readiness, compliance, and safety. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Uphold the mission and vision of KIPP NC.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and OSHA-compliant garage environment.
• Perform comprehensive diagnostic and repair work on diesel and gasoline engines, transmissions, brake systems, electrical systems, and air-conditioning units.
• Conduct North Carolina vehicle safety inspections and ensure compliance with all DOT and school transportation regulations.
• Lead or assist with preventive maintenance schedules for the full bus fleet.
• Support and mentor Transportation Mechanic I staff by modeling safe, efficient repair techniques.
• Document all maintenance and repair work accurately in fleet management systems.
• Collaborate with the Shop Foreman and Director of Transportation to assess vehicle conditions, schedule major repairs, and recommend parts or equipment purchases.
• Respond to on-road service calls and perform emergency repairs as needed. 
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Shop Foreman.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED required; vocational or technical training in automotive or diesel
• technology preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in automotive or diesel vehicle maintenance, with at least 2 years involving school or commercial fleet service.
• Advanced knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems.
• Ability to use diagnostic tools and computerized testing equipment effectively.
• Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision and exercise sound mechanical judgment.
• Strong communication and mentoring skills to support and guide junior mechanics.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 75 pounds regularly and work in physically demanding conditions (standing, bending, kneeling, or working under vehicles for extended periods).
• Must possess a valid North Carolina Class B or higher Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with “P” and “S” endorsements.
• Valid NC DOT Medical Card required.
• ASE certification(s) in school bus or medium/heavy truck repair preferred.
• Willingness to attend ongoing professional development or manufacturer training as required by KIPP NC.