First Line Support Technician for On-Bus Systems

About the Role

Bus Éireann invites a practical and hands-on individual to join the operational team at their Waterford location. This position is essential for ensuring buses run efficiently by overseeing and maintaining critical onboard equipment. Primary responsibilities include monitoring, supporting, and servicing devices such as ticket machines, location tracking, communication tools, CCTV, and WiFi systems.

The work schedule follows a 5-days-on, 2-days-off rotation, starting early at 5am to prepare buses for daily operations. Typically, one Sunday every four weeks is required for conducting health checks, updates, and equipment audits.

Main Responsibilities

• Serve as the initial point of contact for depot personnel reporting onboard equipment issues.
• Perform basic troubleshooting, including device restarts, setting adjustments, and status reviews.
• Precisely log problems using dedicated systems and escalate complex issues appropriately.
• Provide immediate support to drivers and depot staff to prevent service delays.
• Conduct repairs and functionality tests on ticket machines whenever feasible.
• Replace defective ticketing hardware or SIM cards, keeping accurate documentation.
• Monitor faulty equipment, label it, and prepare it for collection or repair by suppliers.
• Test and apply new software updates on onboard devices, and perform resets as needed.
• Track system dashboards and ServiceNow alerts to identify early equipment failures.
• Report recurring issues to relevant teams promptly.
• Assist with routine software updates and equipment inspections.
• Replace malfunctioning plug-in devices with spare stock, ensuring correct configuration.
• Complete and document regular health assessments on onboard systems such as connectivity and software versions.
• Ensure spare equipment inventory is up-to-date to avoid deployment delays.
• Verify ticket machines download the latest data and upload revenue information daily.
• Collaborate with station teams to maintain sufficient ticketing equipment and return faulty items for repair.
• Maintain comprehensive records of all onboard equipment via dedicated applications and ServiceNow emails.
• Keep logs of faulty items, replacements, and inventory locations.
• Manage spare stock levels and arrange replenishment as necessary.
• Generate periodic reports on equipment performance, operational percentages, frequent issues, and stock status.
• Coordinate with local operations, AVL control, traffic supervisors, cash office, maintenance, IT, and supplier technicians to resolve issues and perform updates or repairs.
• Work alongside the National Transport Authority and contractors to support NTA-managed onboard systems.
• Document and communicate clearly when passing issues to other teams.

Essential Skills & Knowledge

• Competence in basic diagnostics, troubleshooting, and simple repairs on onboard equipment.
• Proficiency with computers and software tools for equipment status updates and record management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to methodically address and escalate issues.
• Excellent organizational skills for maintaining logs, tracking equipment, and managing spare parts stock.
• Clear and confident communication skills to assist drivers, depot staff, and other teams effectively.
• Reliability, proactivity, and capacity to work independently handling daily tasks.
• Possession of a full, clean Category B driving licence with willingness to travel between depots.
• Prior experience in technical support, transport operations, or handling equipment/devices is advantageous.
• Qualifications in electrical, mechanical, or other practical/technical disciplines are beneficial.

Employee Benefits

• Permanent contract with 25 days of annual leave, increasing with tenure.
• Subsidised GP scheme covering the employee, partner, and dependents up to age 16.
• Travel concessions on CIE services for employees and dependents, including residential travel to/from work.
• Pension and welfare schemes.
• Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support.
• On-site parking facilities.
• Study scheme supporting professional development and continuous learning.

Additional Information

The annual starting salary ranges from €40,000 to €50,000 based on experience and performance. Bus Éireann is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion to help all employees realize their full potential.