Apprentice Mechanic

This position performs semi-skilled work in maintaining the vehicles and mechanical equipment of the City. Employee operates a variety of equipment in the operation, repair, maintenance and replacement of city vehicles and equipment and has knowledge of the standard practices, methods, tools, and materials used in the maintenance of vehicles and equipment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Performs and evaluates preventive maintenance for all vehicles and mechanical equipment. Operates a variety of diagnostic equipment and a variety of hand and power tools. With guidance, services, repairs, tests, and operates vehicles and mechanical equipment, including fire and ambulance vehicles, trucks and equipment, police vehicles, and vehicles with contracted outside agencies. Inspects, adjusts and replaces necessary units and related parts in the performance of repair and maintenance work. With guidance, repairs brake, engine, electrical, fuel, hydraulic, transmission, ignition, air, exhaust, axle assemblies and related systems. Cuts and welds metal and performs minor vehicle body repair, touch up and related work. Conducts various analyses and inspections of vehicles and mechanical systems to determine the most cost-effective means of maintenance, repair or replacement. Performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards. With assistance, services pumps and equipment as directed. Provides emergency field assistance to disabled equipment as needed and appropriate. Maintains assigned tools and equipment. Maintains records, prepares reports and other specialized maintenance records of equipment and mechanical equipment. May require weekend work with specified weekdays off. May be required to work overtime at the discretion of the Director of Public Works or Fleet Maintenance Supervisor. Supports the Fleet Maintenance Supervisor in general duties during his/her absence. Basic knowledge of automotive mechanics; basic knowledge of gas and diesel engines, transmissions, hydraulics, generators, and welding; working knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions common to municipal maintenance and repair activities; working knowledge of the practices, methods, materials and tools used in modern equipment maintenance. Skill in operation of listed tools and equipment. Ability to maintain effective preventive maintenance programs, policies and procedures; ability to carry out assigned projects to their completion; ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, supervisors, vendors and the public. Graduation from high school with diploma or GED equivalent plus some specialized training in mechanics, maintenance management, or a closely related field. 1.5 years of related mechanical experience, or Any equivalent combination of education and experience. Must possess, or be able to obtain by time of employment a valid Oregon Driver License; Commercial Driver License (Class A) is highly preferred. If hired without a CDL, employee will be required to obtain a CDL within 12 months of employment; Must provide small mechanic tools to perform the basic requirements of this position. ASE Truck Suspension & Steering and Brake certifications required within 36 months of employment; additional ASE certifications are desired.