MECHANIC 1

Mechanic I

Performs routine service, preventive maintenance, and basic repair work on County vehicles and heavy equipment for all County departments, including Sheriff and Emergency Ambulance Services; performs related work as required.

The principal function of an employee in this class is to perform routine maintenance, inspections, and basic repairs on County vehicles and heavy equipment. The Mechanic I follows established procedures and receives guidance from the supervisor or a more experienced mechanic on complex diagnostics and repairs. Work is performed under the direction of the Fleet Supervisor. Duties are performed in a maintenance shop and at field locations, with exposure to moving equipment, noise, vehicle fluids, fumes, and changing weather conditions.

Performs basic repairs to vehicle and equipment systems within demonstrated training and skill; refers complex or unfamiliar problems for guidance;

Inspects County vehicles and heavy equipment for wear, damage, service needs, and unsafe operating conditions;

Performs preventive maintenance, including oil and filter changes, lubrication, fluid checks, battery service, and tire maintenance;

Uses basic diagnostic tools and service manuals; assists with advanced troubleshooting and component repairs;

Completes assigned maintenance and repair tasks and communicates scheduling needs and delays to the supervisor;

Safely operates shop tools, lifts, jacks, and other equipment within training and authorization;

Checks completed work and performs authorized operational tests to verify safe and proper function;

Maintains accurate records of inspections, repairs, parts, labor, mileage, and equipment service history;

Identifies needed parts and supplies, assists with inventory, and submits requests to the supervisor;

Assists more experienced mechanics with major repairs and learns additional diagnostic and repair procedures;

Maintains a clean and orderly shop; handles vehicle fluids, batteries, and waste materials according to established procedures;

Follows County policies, manufacturer instructions, and applicable workplace safety procedures; reports hazards and unsafe equipment;

Communicates courteously with employees and departments about maintenance needs and work progress;

Attends relevant training and keeps current with assigned vehicle and equipment technology;

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

Basic automotive and heavy equipment maintenance and repair methods;

Gasoline and diesel engines and vehicle mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems appropriate to the assigned level;

Safe operation of hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment, lifts, and lifting devices;

Service manuals, parts identification, and maintenance recordkeeping;

Shop safety, personal protective equipment, and safe handling of vehicle fluids and supplies;

Ability to:

Perform routine maintenance and basic repairs, and recognize when additional technical guidance is needed;

Read and follow service information, work orders, and oral and written instructions;

Work safely around vehicles, heavy equipment, and moving mechanical parts;

Maintain accurate service records and use job related computer applications;

Organize assigned work and communicate repair status and safety concerns;

Maintain effective working relationships with supervisors and County employees;

High school diploma or equivalent general educational development (GED) certification;

Some experience or vocational training in automotive or heavy equipment maintenance and repair;

Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Valid driver's license appropriate to the vehicles operated; eligibility to drive County vehicles;

Additional licenses or certifications applicable to assigned vehicles and specialized work must be confirmed by the County before finalization.

Essential Physical Abilities

Sufficient communication capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation, to exchange instructions and safety information;

Sufficient vision or other powers of observation, with or without reasonable accommodation, to inspect equipment, read service information, and perform repair work;

Sufficient manual dexterity, with or without reasonable accommodation, to operate tools and diagnostic equipment and handle vehicle components;

Sufficient mobility and physical capability, with or without reasonable accommodation, to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and access vehicles and equipment during maintenance;

Ability, with or without reasonable accommodation and appropriate assistance or lifting devices, to move tools, parts, and components required for assigned tasks.