Automotive Research Assistant

Description

The City of Detroit's Department of Transportation is currently accepting applications for an Automotive Research Assistant for their Vehicle Maintenance division.

Under general supervision, conduct inspections and assist in testing automotive components and material. Prepare and implement equipment maintenance and repair procedure and assist in the development of and participate in the training of vehicle maintenance personnel.

Examples of Duties

* Conduct periodic inspections, and report on the operational performance of test models.

* Conduct tests on transit equipment components and materials.

* Oversee the fabrication of design models for installation on vehicles or use in shop floor training demonstrations.

* Collect samples of materials for laboratory testing.

* Perform simple laboratory tests on fuels, lubricants and materials.

* Conduct detailed analyses of components in operation and the physical properties of their elements.

* Conduct practical technical observations and provide recommendations on tested materials and components.

* Consult maintenance journals and bulletins for current test information.

* Research and document manufacturers' recommended maintenance practices for original equipment.

* Develop standardized maintenance schedules and procedures and assist in the preparation of service and maintenance bulletins and parts and supply specifications.

* Instruct mechanics in the classroom or on the floor with the use of vehicle component models or other training materials.

* Review parts catalogues and marketing bulletins for interchangeable components.

* Review maintenance periodicals and manuals for new techniques, methods, and materials.

* Test proposed new maintenance recommendations from mechanics.

* Inspect components for adherence to specifications and provide recommendations.

Minimum Qualifications

* High School Diploma or G.E.D. (General Education Development) equivalent.

* Three (3) years of experience in the repair and overhaul of transit equipment, preferably with large transportation coaches.

Qualifications (preferred):

* Courses in general shop and auto repair and additional training in large vehicle maintenance.

* Three (3) years of experience in the repair and overhaul of transit equipment, preferably with large transportation coaches.

* One (1) year of experience in supervising and instructing others in the repair of such equipment and in the collection and preparation of technical data and technical reports

Applicants subsequently hired in this title shall be required to obtain a State of Michigan Chauffeur's License with a Class 1 endorsement or a Commercial Driver License with a Group B endorsement and airbrake qualification. Additionally, the Detroit Department of Transportation requires applicants subsequently hired in this title to obtain a State of Michigan Group B Commercial Driver License with a P endorsement within 60 days of employment.

Successful applicants must meet physical standards prescribed by the Michigan State Police Motor Carrier Division and must possess and carry a valid current Medical Examiner's Certificate certifying physical fitness for driving in accordance with State of Michigan Motor Carrier Safety Act 1988.

Employees in this class will be required to provide the tools necessary to perform the work assigned.

Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position.

Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

* Basic knowledge of vehicle maintenance methods, materials, and equipment.

* General knowledge of government and industry transit bus standards.

* Knowledge of automotive equipment operation and current test equipment and operation.

* Intermediate skill in detecting mechanical troubles in automotive equipment.

* Ability to speak before groups and communicate technical information.

* Ability to interact effectively with departmental staff with tact and diplomacy.

* Skill in observation.

* Moderate ability to read and write technical diagrams and schematics.

* Basic skill in using measuring and testing equipment.

* Skill in communicating effectively orally and in…