Utility Mechanic

Job Description

Job Description

The Utility Mechanic performs basic maintenance, helping Mechanics, A, B, and C as required. The Utility Mechanic performs all the routine bus maintenance. In addition, the employee performs other duties as assigned and required. The Utility Mechanic must be proficient in all duties of the Night Service employee and Cleaner. The Utility job descriptions include all the requirements found in the Night Service and Cleaner descriptions.

One Team! One TARTA! The role of the Utility Mechanic will focus on supporting Maintenance within a new TARTA. In 2026, TARTA adopted a new Strategic Plan 2026 - 2031, as well as new Mission and Vision statements to better capture the transformational journey underway. The Strategic Plan focuses on the customer experience, financial stewardship, operational excellence, and growth. This transformation is powered by a dedicated team of professionals in each department from the leadership team to every front-line (and behind the scenes) team member.

Routine Maintenance

Performing routine maintenance duties including:

• Replacing light bulbs
• Repairing horns
• Maintaining mirrors
• Jump starting buses
• Steam cleaning engines
• Repairing lifts
• Changing tires

Performing maintenance and repair duties in the following areas:

Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

• Utilizing sophisticated computer-based equipment to isolate intermediate equipment problems
• Diagnosing basic, routine problems such as light bulb problems, horn malfunctions, etc.

Chassis

• Diagnosing and adjusting minor brake problems
• Maintenance of brake chambers and slack adjusters
• Scanning and diagnosing ABS codes

Electrical

• Scanning and diagnosing multiplexing codes
• Replacing minor electrical components
• Identify parts of schematic diagrams

Transmission

• Scanning and diagnosing transmission codes

Powertrain

• Scanning and diagnosing engine codes

Air Conditioning and Heating

• Performing minor repairs and maintenance of heating systems

Inspection

• Adjusting and checking the integrity of all brake hoses, brake lining and brake systems
• Evaluating and tightening all lug nuts
• Evaluating all steering components
• Evaluating operation of all controls and switches
• Performing step by step inspection of all power components
• Checking all ADA mandated equipment

Checking buses in and out

• Collecting driver boards
• Collecting pink cards
• Assigning parking
• Creating location sheet

Recording repairs in computer system

Assistance Call Response

• Driving wrecker to service site
• Lifting and towing inoperable buses
• Jump-starting stalled buses
• Performing minor off-site repairs such as those described above
• Moving materials in garage using forklift
• Using a computer system to log completed repairs and requisition more complicated repairs as necessary

Miscellaneous Duties

• Traveling off site to retrieve parts
• Cleaning work area and equipment

All other duties as assigned; job descriptions are subject to change.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Commercial Driver’s License (class A) with passenger and air brake endorsements, obtained 90 days of hire
• Automotive Service Excellence Certification (H-2, H-6, H-7 and/ or H-8)
• Passing score on the Utility Mechanic Qualification Test
• Perform troubleshooting and analysis at a basic level
• Identification of elements of schematic drawing
• Driving and maneuvering a forklift in confined spaces
• Basic diagnostic skills
• Computer proficiency
• Apply knowledge of schematic drawings to facilitate expedient repair of electrical systems
• Apply knowledge from formal and on-the-job training to on-the-job processes
• Proficiently use appropriate tools and diagnostic equipment including ABS diagnostic system
• Communicate effectively with co-workers, management and vendors
• Read and comprehend complex written materials
• Write simple work orders
• Operating computer diagnostic equipment as required
• Analyzing data or information to resolve problems
• Operation monitoring – watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure system is working properly
• Decision-making skills
• Evaluating information against standards
• Learn additional skills on the job to advance toward upper level Mechanic position
• Must be able to perform all of the following physical tasks:
• Crawling on occasion
• Standing for intervals of 4 hours or more without rest
• Reaching above shoulder height to retrieve, place, or sort objects weighing in excess of 10 pounds occasionally
• Basic understanding of mechanical equipment
• Developing understanding of the following bus components:
• Brake and air system
• Antilock brake system
• Chassis and its components
• Engine components
• Door air systems
• Hydraulic systems
• of the following:
• Electronics 
• Electrical systems including basic principles such as Ohm’s Law
• Schematic drawings
• Computer-based diagnostic equipment
• Developing knowledge of parts books
• General knowledge of tool usage and specialized equipment
• Basic knowledge of welding and brazing techniques
• Safety procedures

Pre-Employment Requirements:

• TARTA is a drug-free workplace. All applicants are required to complete a drug test, which includes testing for marijuana. The use of marijuana—whether for recreational or medical purposes—is prohibited for all positions. Applicants who test positive or refuse to test will not be eligible for hire.

Minimum Qualifications

A combination of education and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position. 

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent 

Special Conditions

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be satisfied by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. TARTA provides reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Special Conditions for this role include the ability to work flexible hours and adapt to changing conditions. A valid driver's license and reliable transportation may also be necessary. As for the working conditions, they will vary depending on the nature of the tasks and environment.

Working Conditions

The work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Much of the work takes place indoors within TARTA facilities. However, there may be instances where employees are exposed to different weather conditions during outdoor maintenance tasks. Additionally, the job may entail exposure to hazardous materials or situations.

Physical Effort Required

The Utility Mechanic position requires occasional sitting (0.25–2.5 hours daily) and frequent standing and walking (2.5–5.5 hours daily). The role involves lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs, as well as frequent reaching above shoulder level, bending, stooping, and pushing/pulling (2.5–5.5 hours daily). Fine manipulation is required occasionally (0.25–2.5 hours daily). Driving is required occasionally (0.25–2.5 hours daily). This is considered a moderate stress level position.