Diesel Mechanic
Posted Aug 5, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026
Likely interview questions for this role
Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.
About your past
First Student pays more for each ASE School Bus test you pass. Which ones do you have or plan to take?
What they are checking: Whether they are committed to building certifications and growing their skills.
Tell me about a tough repair you figured out that others couldn't.
What they are checking: Whether they have real problem-solving skills and persistence with hard repairs.
The company pays for CDL Class B training. How do you feel about getting your CDL to road test buses?
What they are checking: Whether they are willing to get the license that lets them test drive and move buses.
What would you do
A bus is due out for a route in thirty minutes, and you find a safety defect. Dispatch is pressuring you. What do you do?
What they are checking: Whether they put student safety above schedule pressure and keep an unsafe bus off the road.
How do you keep yourself and others safe in the shop?
What they are checking: Whether they follow shop safety practices like lockout, jack stands, and proper PPE.
About the work
Walk me through how you'd diagnose a school bus that cranks but won't start on a cold morning.
What they are checking: Whether they troubleshoot diesel no-start problems systematically, including fuel, glow plugs, and electrical.
What do you check on an air brake system during a preventive maintenance inspection?
What they are checking: Whether they know air brake systems well, since brakes are the top safety item on a school bus.
Tell me about your experience with DPF and aftertreatment systems. What usually goes wrong?
What they are checking: Whether they can handle modern emissions systems, which cause many diesel breakdowns.
How do you use diagnostic software and scan tools on diesel engines?
What they are checking: Whether they can use electronic diagnostics to find faults quickly and accurately.
How do you document your repairs so the next tech knows what was done?
What they are checking: Whether they keep clear records, which matter for safety audits and repeat problems.
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As published by First Student.