Fleet Services Assistant Mechanic

Description
Under general supervision, to inspect, lubricate and service gasoline and diesel powered heavy duty trucks, construction equipment and automobiles; and to assist journey level mechanics by performing sub-journey level repair duties.

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EXAMINATION DATES: Candidates who meet the employment standards will be invited to take an IN-PERSON practical examination tentatively scheduled for December 20, 2025. Qualifying candidates will be notified of the examination instructions.
Typical Tasks

• Oils and greases heavy equipment in the field and shop;
• Services light cars, motorcycles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and trucks;
• Inspects and replaces parts, such as, mufflers, fan belts, brake linings, shock absorbers, oil filters, air cleaners, radiator hoses and similar parts;
• Inspects, adjusts and repairs brake linings/units, air and hydraulic brake systems and clutches;
• Inspects automotive equipment to locate and determine the extent of repairs; performs routine troubleshooting of components; replaces components identified as defective;
• Checks equipment parts such as motor mounts, universal joints, power steering mechanisms, and air conditioning/climate control systems to detect malfunctioning or defective units for repair;
• Services transmissions by replacing fluids and changes fuel filters;
• Performs engine tune-ups; replaces spark plugs;
• Performs biennial inspection of terminals (B.I.T. inspection services);
• Removes and replaces vehicle parts such as lights, mirrors, bumpers, mud flaps, tail gates and seats;
• Assists journey level Mechanics in the overhaul and repair of trucks and heavy equipment;
• Performs simple arc and acetylene welding, mig welding, and plasma cutting in repairs to vehicles and fabrication of equipment attached to vehicles, and of simple structures, and assists journey level Mechanics in more complex mig, arc and acetylene welding, and plasma cutting;
• Conducts smog tests and smoke tests on diesel engines under public sector regulations;
• Uses test equipment, including electronic scanners and laptop computers, typical shop tools, grinders, valve facers and seaters, powered hack saw, schematics and other tools common to the trade;
• Performs sub-journey level repairs;
• Repairs and installs special equipment such as sirens, gun racks, extra lights, cages, controllers and instrument panels;
• Learns to remove and replace parts of engines, transmissions, differentials, clutch assemblies, steering and suspension systems;
• Repairs and changes tires and balances wheels; adjusts headlights;
• Tests, charges, and replaces batteries;
• Drives automobiles, trucks and heavy equipment for the purpose of relocating the equipment;
• Prepares and maintains simple records and reports;
• Services and repairs gas powered chain saws and mowers;
• Performs related work as required.

Employment Standards
Sufficient training, education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the above typical tasks and demonstrates the possession of the knowledge and abilities listed below.

Experience Note:
The knowledge and abilities required to perform this function are normally acquired through training and experience equivalent to high school graduation.

AND

Two (2) years of experience in the maintenance and repair of automotive equipment. At least one (1) year of experience working on heavy equipment is desirable.

OR

The completion of a certified program of instruction in automotive repair from high school, college, the armed forces, or vocational school may substitute for one (1) year of required experience.

Possession of a valid California driver's license is required at the time of appointment and ability to qualify for and maintain an acceptable driving record, which will qualify for a County Driver's Permit.

Special Requirements

• Possession of a forklift operators certification within six (6) months of appointment or must vacate the position. Certification must be maintained throughout employment.

Special Requirements for Fleet Management Division personnel only:

• Possession of Air Conditioning and Refrigerant licenses/certifications issued by the State of California within six (6) months of appointment or must vacate the position. Certification must be maintained throughout employment.

Desirable Certifications:

• Possession of one or more National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certifications.
• Possession of Smog license/certification issued by the State of California is desirable.

Knowledge of:

• Operation and basic theory of diesel and gasoline internal combustion engines and fuel, cooling, air conditioning/climate control, ignition, electronic, electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems as pertaining to automotive and construction equipment;
• Hydraulics;
• Brake linings/units, air and hydraulic braking systems;
• Test equipment including scanners and computers, welding materials and techniques and shop machines, equipment and tools;
• Proper and safe use of tools and equipment used in mechanical repairs;
• Smog tests and smoke tests on diesel engines procedures;
• Schematics and blueprints as related to equipment.

Ability to:

• Use testing and shop equipment and tools, including plasma cutting equipment, and mig, acetylene and arc welding equipment;
• Troubleshoot and repair emergency lighting systems;
• Utilize and understand computer scanners, engine scopes and test equipment;
• Upload calibration software for scanners and computers used to troubleshoot and diagnose equipment;
• Keep accurate records and make simple reports;
• Follow written and oral instructions;
• Adapt to various working conditions and environments; lift and carry materials, supplies and equipment; climb ladders; and craw in tight spaces; exercise physical exertion in the movement of moderately heavy or bulky supplies;
• Perform a wide variety of physical tasks requiring strength, coordination and agility;
• Move and lift objects that weigh up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 70 pounds.