Senior Mechanic

Definition

Under general supervision, performs maintenance and repair services on heavy/light city vehicles and equipment, including fire trucks, automobiles, construction equipment, street sweepers, lawn mowers, and stationary generators. Provides lead direction and training to section staff and performs other duties as assigned.

This is an advanced journey and lead level position classification in the Mechanic series. Non‑routine problems may be resolved in conjunction with a supervisor or by the employee in the absence of the supervisor and are subject to later review. Class incumbents may be distinguished from those in the Mechanic class by the broader range of responsibilities and by leading a crew.

General supervision is provided by the Public Works Supervisor. Assignments and direction may be provided by the Maintenance and Golf Operations Manager.

Provides training and lead direction to section staff including mechanics, fleet services work, and temporary employees in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining fleet vehicles and equipment; prioritizes, schedules, and monitors daily work assignments; provides input on performance evaluations of section staff; instructs on and enforces safety regulations; maintains records of repair costs; works with vendor representatives; evaluates and utilizes resources to solve complex work problems;

uses a computer to prepare work requests and track work orders to ensure timely completion of assignments; acts as liaison between the division and other agencies; and researches and recommends new processes for continuous improvement.

Diagnoses and troubleshoots problems in all systems of fleet vehicles and equipment; prepares service orders; completes or delegates required repairs, adjustments, or overhauls; performs safety inspections and tune‑ups on all vehicles; and may fabricate metal parts or fittings as required.

Principles and operation of internal combustion engines, including alternate fuel technologies; maintenance and repair requirements of automobiles, street construction and maintenance equipment; functions and proper use of automobile parts, garage supplies, tools, oils, greases, and lubricants; tune‑up and testing instruments; front‑end alignment; electrical principles; air‑conditioning and hydraulic system repair and maintenance; blueprint and schematic concepts; preventative maintenance inspection methods; federal and state health and safety regulations;

first aid techniques; operation of various types of equipment; assembly and operation of auxiliary equipment typically found on vehicles, trucks and construction equipment; vehicle code pertaining to lighting systems, smog control systems, and brake systems; and computer operating systems and software applications.

Schedules and prioritizes work; assigns personnel as required; motivates, trains, and leads employees; diagnoses and troubleshoots electrical circuits, brakes, differentials, and hydraulic fuel systems; removes, repairs, and replaces major and minor engine component parts; performs tune‑ups; overhauls large and small diesel and gasoline engines; performs electrical and gas welding and cutting on all city equipment to manufacture special equipment; applies effective training techniques;

uses shop, power, and hand tools; works effectively under pressure of deadlines and during emergency situations; utilizes computers and software for word processing, spreadsheets, and specialized functions; relates effectively with those contacted in the course of work; communicates effectively, both orally and in writing; leads group discussions and training activities; instructs and enforces safety regulations and procedures; and exemplifies an enthusiastic, resourceful, and effective service attitude.

Learn, interpret, and apply city, department, and division rules and regulations and policies and practices; establish and maintain effective, tactful, and courteous relations with the general public, contractors, and city staff.