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Bus Maintenance Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bus Mechanic

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Bus Mechanic The Bus Mechanic maintains and repairs transit buses, with a focus on electrical systems, diesel engines, transmissions, brakes, air conditioning units, and interior and exterior body ...

Bus Driver

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Maintains bus cleanliness on a daily basis, including washing, as needed. * Performs minor bus maintenance checks and reports maintenance needs. * May transport other materials in District vehicles.

Bus Mechanic

Chicago, IL · On-site

$42.35/hr

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES Performs troubleshooting, diagnosis, repair, and maintenance work on various bus systems and components. Inspects, aligns, replaces, adjusts, and repairs various bus ...

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES Performs troubleshooting, diagnosis, repair, and maintenance work on various bus systems and components. Inspects, aligns, replaces, adjusts, and repairs various bus ...

Bus Mechanic

Chicago, IL · On-site

$37.64 - $47.05/hr

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES • Performs troubleshooting, diagnosis, repair, and maintenance work on various bus systems and components. • Inspects, aligns, replaces, adjusts, and repairs various bus ...

Fleet Maintenance Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$79K - $94K/yr

Technical experience with fixed route transit bus maintenance. * Solid knowledge of managing audits and PM schedules. * Experience with Diesel, CNG, and Alternative fuels is a plus. * Must have a CDL ...

Technical experience with fixed route transit bus maintenance. * Solid knowledge of managing audits and PM schedules. * Experience with Diesel, CNG, and Alternative fuels is a plus. * Must have a CDL ...

Maintain a clean and mechanically sound bus at all times * Ensure the safety of all students when entering and leaving the bus * Assist students with getting on and off the bus as needed * Engage ...

Maintain a clean and mechanically sound bus at all times * Ensure the safety of all students when entering and leaving the bus * Assist students with getting on and off the bus as needed * Engage ...

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Bus Maintenance information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$32

$57

How much do bus maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus maintenance in Chicago, IL is $32.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.75 and $39.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is bus maintenance?

Bus maintenance refers to the regular inspection, servicing, and repair of buses to ensure they are safe, reliable, and efficient for public transportation. This includes tasks such as checking engine systems, brakes, tires, electrical components, and performing routine oil changes. Proper bus maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, extends the lifespan of the vehicle, and ensures compliance with safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bus maintenance technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bus Maintenance Technician, you need a solid understanding of automotive systems, mechanical aptitude, and often a vocational diploma or ASE certification in diesel mechanics. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, computerized maintenance systems, and specialized repair equipment is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help technicians efficiently identify issues and work as part of a maintenance team. These skills ensure buses remain safe, reliable, and compliant with transportation regulations.

What are some typical challenges faced in a bus maintenance role, and how can they be managed effectively?

Bus maintenance professionals often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex mechanical or electrical issues and working under tight schedules to keep buses operational. Staying updated on evolving vehicle technologies, especially with newer hybrid or electric buses, is essential. Effective management includes ongoing technical training, strong teamwork with other mechanics and drivers, and proactive communication about potential issues to prevent breakdowns. Adhering to safety protocols and using diagnostic tools efficiently can also help streamline repairs and maintenance tasks.

What is the difference between Bus Maintenance vs Bus Mechanics?

AspectBus MaintenanceBus Mechanics
CertificationsASE certifications, state inspectionsASE certifications, specialized engine or brake certifications
Work EnvironmentBus garages, maintenance facilitiesBus garages, repair shops
Job FocusOverall bus upkeep, inspections, preventive maintenanceDiagnosing and repairing specific mechanical issues
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, school districtsPublic transit, commercial bus companies

Bus Maintenance involves overseeing the entire maintenance process, including inspections and preventive care, while Bus Mechanics focus on diagnosing and repairing specific mechanical problems. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but their scope of work differs slightly, with maintenance being more comprehensive and mechanics more specialized in repairs.

How do you become a bus maintenance technician?

To become a bus maintenance technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and training in vehicle repair, often through an apprenticeship or technical school. Certification in diesel or automotive technology can improve job prospects, and experience with tools and diagnostic equipment is essential for maintaining and repairing buses.

What does a bus maintenance worker do?

A bus maintenance worker inspects, repairs, and maintains buses to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. They perform tasks such as engine repairs, brake adjustments, and routine inspections, often using diagnostic tools and following safety protocols. This role typically requires mechanical skills and knowledge of vehicle systems.

What job categories do people searching Bus Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Bus Maintenance job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,642 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Manager, Maintenance Instruction - Bus

Chicago Transit Authority

Chicago, IL • On-site

$117K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Chicago Transit Authority rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

648th of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

SALARY
$117,945.85
POSITION SUMMARY
Manages and plans the implementation and administration of training programs for the Authority's Bus Maintenance department. Develops, revises, and evaluates new and existing training programs and implements updates to existing programs or coordinates implementation of new programs.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Oversees project management of the Authority's Bus Maintenance training programs.
o Plans, manages, and coordinates the activities involved in developing and evaluating maintenance training programs.
o Researches programs required by various regulations and develops programs that are compliant with regulations and Authority guidelines.
o Supervises the development and implementation of training programs in accordance with specified regulations and Authority standards.
o Assigns, monitors, and reviews all work performed by training staff and ensures conformance to department requests and the Authority's policies and procedures.
o Confers with department management to determine training initiatives, analyze training needs, set objectives, and assess the overall effectiveness of training efforts.
o Ensures that training programs and publications are in compliance with safety standards and regulatory laws/standards/procedures set by local, state, and/or federal agencies and ordinances, or by government legislation.
o Creates long and short term plans for training programs and needs.
• Oversees staff development to ensure proper training and knowledge is attained to provide safe and accurate training programs. Plans and/or conducts training for staff of new programs to improve teaching techniques for more effective and efficient adult learning.
• Maintains expertise in training development, instructional design, adult learning and knowledge of maintenance operations and safety, serving in a consultant capacity to maintenance departments and members of the training staff.
• Assists management in the development and administration of department programs, policies, goals, and objectives to ensure consistency of interpretation. Develops methods to improve team workflow and processes.
• Liaises with internal and external departments on behalf of the Bus Maintenance Instruction department.
o Assists with apprenticeship programs and job fairs with Human Resources.
o Prepares and submits semi-annual testing activity reports to the EPA
o Works with vendors to coordinate train the trainer, training on site, offsite, and web based training.
o Coordinates with other city departments (CPD, CFD etc.) to coordinate training on CTA equipment related to their modalities.
• Prepares and manages any assigned training program budgets. Submits budget recommendations and monitors expenditures to guarantee department meets budget restrictions and goals.
• Hires, trains, develop, monitors, and evaluate performance of staff. Reviews and recommends personnel actions for approval. Tracks equipment, tools, and software issued to department staff.
• Performs related duties as assigned.
MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Reporting to this position are the following jobs:
Job Title
• Senior Garage Instructor
• Garage Instructor II
• Garage Instructor I
• Maintenance Training Clerk
• File Clerk
CHALLENGES
• Meeting customer training needs by increasing the skills of the workforce with limited resources in materials and in manpower.
• Maintaining continuity in content, style, and delivery of instruction programs.
• Supporting the increasing demand for training without depleting our client limited workforce (working around their schedule without interrupting the quality of service downtime).
• Continuing education updating of technology and machinery information as the industry advances with better and more efficient methods.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Instructional Design, Instructional Technology, Adult Learning, or a related field, plus four (4) years of experience in coordinating, managing, or evaluating maintenance training programs, instructional design, or a combination of education and experience relating to this position.
• Experience as a Maintenance Training Instructor preferred.
• Must possess a valid State of Illinois Driver's License.
• Must obtain and maintain an "A" Operators License to conduct Underground Storage Tank training to management personnel at bus garage locations.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• When in the office environment - requires sitting for extended periods of time, standing, visual acumen, manual dexterity, and fingering for working with computer keyboards.
• When in the field - must be able to tolerate extreme weather conditions and long intense work periods.
• May be required to travel to other field locations, and transport training materials and equipment.
• May require standing for long periods of time while training.
• Requires remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time and constantly operating a computer and other office productivity machinery.
• Service Area Requirement: Exempt (Non-Union) employees must live within the boundaries of the CTA Statutory Service Area either at the time of employment or within 6 months of beginning employment at CTA.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
• Working knowledge of methods and procedures utilized in the repair and maintenance of electronic, electrical, mechanical, and general equipment.
• Working knowledge of basic hand and power tool safety.
• Working knowledge of hazardous waste operations, waste removal, and industrial hygiene practices.
• Working knowledge of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), American National Standard Institute (ANSI), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other governmental agency standards to properly apply these standards to the CTA training programs, work environment policies, and procedures.
• Working knowledge of basic adult learning techniques.
• Working knowledge of Schematic Print reading.
• Strong supervisory skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) skills.
• Good project management skills.
• Good analytical and creative skills needed in developing training programs.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Ability to maintain amiable relations with various levels of Authority personnel.
WORKING CONDITIONS
• Usual office and classroom working conditions; however occasionally must work in garages, shop areas subjected to moving vehicles, hazards, dust, noise, etc.
• Required to travel to various field locations subject to existing hazards and weather. Occasional work outdoors.
• Required to work various hours, days, and locations.
EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS UTILIZED
• Standard office equipment.
• Personal computer and related software utilized in the office such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

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