03/21/2000 93110

AUTOMOTIVE MECHANIC

DEFINITION: This is skilled journey-level automotive mechanic work in the maintenance and repair of Commonwealth vehicles, equipment and parts.

An employee in this class performs skilled maintenance and repair of a large variety of cars, trucks, tractors, and assorted construction and maintenance equipment and parts. May carry out inspections to ensure compliance with specifications for the annual state safety inspection. Employees may also perform all repairs on diesel equipment with the exception of the diagnosis, parts rebuilding and repair of the diesel engine fuel injection system (injectors and pumps). Employees may provide direction to other automotive and maintenance employees such as Tradesman Helpers, Laborers and/or Equipment Operators. Assignments are received through general instructions, work requests and the Automotive Fleet Preventive Maintenance Schedule. Employee proceeds independently within broad automotive and equipment maintenance guidelines and practices, and safety and inspection rules and regulations. Supervisory review is accomplished by an Automotive Mechanic Supervisor or an administrative superior through inspections during projects or upon completion, and the review of results achieved.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Repairs and overhauls vehicles such as cars, trucks, and tractors; and carries out maintenance and repairs on equipment such as sweepers, mixers, and power shovels. Repairs and replaces shock absorbers, transmissions, hour meters, clutches, brakes, and other parts. Balances wheels and checks for proper alignment; makes minor body repairs; and overhauls and tests alternators and electrical components on vehicles and equipment.

Carries out a preventive maintenance program on vehicles, equipment and parts. Performs automotive mechanical diagnostics, tune-ups, and tire changes; repairs and replaces engine sub-assemblies; repairs and adjusts the cooling, suspension, electrical, heating and air-conditioning components; and maintains fuel, brake, steering and transmission systems. Repairs or rebuilds construction or shop equipment.

Carries out official state inspections for safety and emissions on vehicles as assigned; performs repairs to ensure compliance with specifications; road tests vehicles; fills out inspection stickers and affixes to vehicles; and completes State Inspection Records and related inspection paperwork.

Performs diesel equipment repair work such as, servicing filters; replacing water pumps, gaskets and other parts; repairing electrical systems; and carrying out other repairs, excluding diagnostics, parts rebuilding, and fuel injection system work.

Obtains estimates of damaged vehicles and arranges for repairs at local garages and repair shops as necessary.

Orders and obtains parts and supplies as needed.

Prepares automotive records and reports. Performs emergency road service and prepares reports on completed work.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of automotive vehicles, equipment and parts; and the standard practices of the automotive mechanic trade.

Knowledge of the methods, materials, and tools used by journey-level automotive mechanics.

Knowledge of the assembly and operation of the internal combustion engine.

Knowledge of State inspection rules and regulations.

Knowledge of the hazardous materials and safety precautions used in the automotive mechanic trade.

Skill in locating and correcting defects in automotive vehicles, equipment and parts.

Skill in the care and use of tools and equipment used in repairing and maintaining automotive vehicles, equipment and parts.

Ability to learn the operation of computer diagnostic equipment.

Ability to learn to operate a personal computer and resident software to prepare required reports.

Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions.

Ability to prepare records and reports on automotive repair and maintenance.

Ability to operate a motor vehicle.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Four years of experience in the automotive mechanic trade; or completion of an approved apprenticeship;

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Any combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledges, skills, and abilities.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Using agency may require employee to hold a current and valid Pennsylvania driver's license of the class appropriate to the vehicle operated and supplemented by the endorsements required by law for operation of specific equipment, in order to meet operational needs.

Using agency may require employee to be a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Certified Inspection Mechanic for the class of vehicle used in the agency.

Using agency may require employee to obtain a CFC-12 Refrigerant Recycling Certificate, a 134A Refrigerant Recycling Certificate, or a Compressed Natural Gas Certificate.