Automotive Mechanic (Open and Promotional)

County of San MateoSan Mateo, CA
Onsite

About The Position

The County of San Mateo's Department of Public Works is seeking applications for the position of Automotive Mechanic. This is a journey-level class responsible for independently performing a full range of automotive maintenance and repair duties, requiring significant independent judgment. Incumbents may also provide lead direction to other automotive service personnel. Ideal candidates will possess extensive experience in diagnosing and repairing vehicle computerized systems and electrical components, performing smog inspections, working directly with customers, and have strong organizational and multi-tasking abilities. Knowledge of electric and hybrid vehicle systems, including high-voltage batteries, electric motors, charging systems, power electronics, and safety procedures is also desired.

Requirements

  • Possession of a class C California driver license or equivalent.
  • Must obtain a class B California driver license within one year from date of hire.
  • Must obtain required Automotive Service Excellence certificates and California Smog Check certificate for municipalities within one year from date of hire.
  • Journey level (3+ years) status as an automotive mechanic with demonstrated proficiency in diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of a wide variety of automotive equipment.
  • Knowledge of methods, tools and equipment used in the complete repair of motor vehicles.
  • Knowledge of late model automotive engines, differentials and transmissions.
  • Knowledge of maintenance and repair of fuel, oil, cooling, ignition, electrical and air and hydraulic brake systems.
  • Knowledge of working principles of the internal combustion engine.
  • Knowledge of safety rules, procedures and practices pertaining to the use and repair of vehicles and equipment in the operation of a repair shop.
  • Knowledge of computerized inventory and tracking systems.
  • Ability to use common automotive service and repair tools and equipment including, air operated equipment, electrical testing, precision measuring tools, jacks and pullers.
  • Ability to perform complete repair work on vehicles.
  • Ability to diagnose and repair a wide variety of minor and major mechanical problems.
  • Ability to install special equipment on vehicles.
  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor.
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to follow safety rules, procedures and practices.
  • Ability to operate a wide variety of motor vehicles.
  • Ability to work courteously and effectively with the public and co-workers.
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 50lbs for extended lengths of time including, equipment and supplies used in the course of work.

Nice To Haves

  • Extensive experience performing a full range of overhaul, repair, and service work on vehicles and equipment.
  • Extensive experience diagnosing and repairing vehicle computerized systems and related electrical component issues.
  • Great organizational skills and multi-tasking ability.
  • Performing smog inspections.
  • Working directly with customers.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and as a team player.
  • Knowledge of electric and hybrid vehicle systems, including high-voltage batteries, electric motors, charging systems, power electronics, and applicable safety procedures.

Responsibilities

  • Perform the complete range of repair work on automotive equipment including diesel and alternative fuel vehicles.
  • Perform emergency repairs of vehicles in the field.
  • Lube chassis; change oil and oil filters.
  • Service vehicles with gas or propane, oil, water, coolant, transmission, and brake fluids.
  • Clean vehicle and equipment components using appropriate shop cleaning equipment and methods.
  • Test drive vehicles after inspection and repair.
  • Inspect, repair, and replace engine components such as cylinder heads, manifolds, camshafts, lifters, and timing gears.
  • Inspect, repair, and replace clutch assemblies.
  • Repair and replace parts of transmission and differential.
  • Perform routine vehicle maintenance and tune-up-related services, including inspection and replacement of air filters, spark plugs, ignition components, belts, hoses, and related engine components.
  • Diagnose and repair fuel, ignition, and engine-management systems.
  • Inspect and service electronic engine controls and related systems.
  • Inspect, adjust, and repair hydraulic brake systems.
  • Use wheel balancer to balance wheels.
  • Clean and pack wheel bearings and U joints.
  • Inspect, repair, and replace master cylinders, wheel cylinders, brake pads, linings, calipers, drums, and rotors.
  • Inspect, replace, and repair ignition and electrical systems.
  • Operate oscilloscope, gas/electric welders, electrical test equipment.
  • Diagnose and repair vehicle electronic control systems using scan tools, diagnostic software, and other computerized diagnostic equipment.
  • Inspect and replace batteries, cables, and terminals.
  • Replace and adjust headlights and taillights.
  • Inspect and repair air conditioning units.
  • Install heaters and defrosters.
  • Inspect, replace, and repair cooling systems; pumps, thermostats, radiators, V-belts, and hoses.
  • Inspect, diagnose, repair, and replace fuel system components, including high-pressure pumps, filters, injectors, and related controls.
  • Perform exhaust emissions tests and repairs, test for conformance with state smog requirements.
  • Inspect, repair, and replace exhaust systems including mufflers and exhaust pipes.
  • Perform BIT, school bus, and related mandated inspections.
  • Complete repair order forms noting parts and labor hours used.
  • Observe safety regulations, prevent hazardous situations, and bring hazards to supervisor's attention.
  • Inspect and repair hydraulic systems.
  • Perform front end alignments, inspect, and replace ball joints, tie rods, kingpins, idler arms, bushings, shims, shackles, shock absorbers, etc.
  • Install seat belts and other special equipment.
  • Inspect and adjust door, hood, trunk latches.
  • Train and supervise others in maintenance, repair, and the installation of special equipment.
  • Drive and operate large buses and trucks; drive and operate forklift; transport vehicles to various locations.
  • Pick up and deliver auto parts.

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Paid holidays
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Professional development
  • Learning and development program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • 401k
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Employee discount programs
  • Commuter benefits
  • Flexible spending account
  • On-site amenities
  • Pet-friendly
  • Wellness programs
  • Diversity programs
  • Family medical leave
  • Maternity leave
  • Paternity leave
  • Adoption assistance
  • Childcare assistance
  • Legal assistance
  • Home office stipend
  • Conference allowance
  • Paid volunteer time
  • Employee bonus referral program
  • Performance bonus
  • Profit sharing
  • Relocation assistance
  • Sabbatical leave
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Stock options
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Fertility benefits
  • Mental health days
  • Pay transparency
  • Pet insurance
  • Bereavement policy
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