A bus mechanic is in charge of maintaining buses, whether they are diesel or gasoline-powered. A bus mechanic, like a car mechanic, should be familiar with all of the moving parts that make a car’s engine and frame function. He’ll take care of repairs to various parts of the bus and ensure that it’s kept in good working order.
Buses, both diesel and gasoline-powered, are used in a variety of industries, including public transportation and schools. These vehicles are frequently used and driven, and they suffer a great deal of wear and tear. Companies that operate buses for any type of public transportation usually employ their own mechanics. These are employees who may be called for routine maintenance to keep the bus running smoothly and safely, or they may be called if something unexpected happens. On a daily basis, a bus mechanic can work with electronics, heating and cooling, and mechanical functions or parts.
Typically, a company looking to hire a bus mechanic will require that the applicant hold a high school diploma or equivalent. In most cases, formal training and education are preferred or required before a person can be considered for a job. It’s usually a crucial position, because a bus mechanic’s errors could cause serious injury or even death to the bus’s passengers.
A bus mechanic will typically complete an apprenticeship as part of his or her education, during which time he or she will put what they’ve learned in school into practice. When moving from one company to another, even someone with several years of experience may be required to go through this type of training. Routine tasks such as checking the oil, rotating the tires, and replacing the headlights could be part of a typical day. Larger tasks could include everything from replacing multiple engine parts to checking and calibrating engine computers. A bus mechanic’s day-to-day tasks can be quite varied.
Some bus mechanics are self-employed and do not work for a bus company. Instead, these mechanics run their own businesses or work in a shop that is privately owned. Their services are used as a third party, and they may be required when a company is short on staff or does not have its own mechanics. When a professional witness is needed to assess the function and performance of a bus, bus mechanics may be called.