Fleet Maintenance Technician

South West Transit is seeking a dedicated, career‑oriented Fleet Maintenance Technician with strong mechanical skills, problem‑solving skills, and a commitment to public service. Technicians diagnose, repair, and perform preventive maintenance on South West Transit buses, cars, trucks, and equipment.

Advanced Vehicle Technology:
Modern buses use advanced technology, including multiplexing, J1939 CAN communications, and electric‑powered accessories. Technicians troubleshoot these systems using computer‑based diagnostic software.

Excellent Maintenance Facility:
South West Transit’s bus maintenance facility features heated garages, a climate‑controlled maintenance shop, bright lighting, vehicle ventilation, lifts, and hoists.

Technicians are provided with a $100 monthly tool allowance to help keep their gear up to date. Salary will be commensurate with candidate's training, qualifications, and experience. Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted.

• Perform diagnoses and repairs on vehicle chassis, drivetrain, components, and systems, including gas and diesel engines, hydraulic and air brake systems.
• Perform schematic and blueprint reading; interpret electrical/electronic chart records.
• Use Vehicle Maintenance Software (VMS) to record tasks performed, parts used, labor time, and proper identification of repair reason.
• Respond to roadside breakdown situations, perform repairs, and provide a replacement vehicle as necessary. Coordinate field repairs as required using outside vendors and determine whether vehicles require towing or are safe to drive.
• Perform thorough and efficient preventive maintenance on SWT fleet vehicles.
• Attend safety and training meetings and participate in emergency preparedness training.
• Operate forklift as required.
• Weld and cut various metals as necessary.
• Perform shop housekeeping tasks, keeping all equipment stored safely and the work area clean and organized.
• Perform other related duties as appropriate or assigned.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two years of vehicle technical training or experience in vehicle maintenance, including gas, diesel, and electric‑powered vehicles.
• Knowledge of workplace safety and OSHA rules and regulations.
• Positive, collaborative approach toward teammates.
• Embraces SWT values of Purpose, Integrity, Continuous Learning, Innovation, Belonging, and Accountability.
• Basic computer skills.

• Two years of experience on heavy‑duty vehicles, preferably transit‑type vehicles.
• Possession of a Minnesota Commercial Driver’s License A or B with passenger endorsement, or ability to obtain within 12 months.
• Possession of a valid medical examiner certificate as mandated by FMCSA.
• Experience using computer‑based software to record parts usage and labor time.

South West Transit participates in E‑Verify. Upon accepting a job offer, candidates will be required to complete a Form I‑9 and provide documentation to verify identity and employment eligibility.

This position requires flexibility to work overtime on occasion or adjust its normal schedule to meet work demands at management’s request.

This is a safety‑sensitive position and is subject to random DOT drug tests.

Work is both indoors and outdoors. Much of the workday is spent walking or standing. Work involves accessing cramped spaces, climbing ladders, walking on uneven surfaces, frequent lifting, pushing, or pulling of items over 50 pounds, and applying equivalent torque. There is frequent exposure to fuel and lubricants and occasional exposure to caustic or hazardous chemicals. There is frequent exposure to electrical and pneumatic power tools as well as loud noise.

Seasonally, there is exposure to heat, cold, or wet conditions.