ACCESS Mechanic

Cincinnati Metro; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 4,071,000 - 5,228,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free Metro bus pass for employees,/spo

OPERS pension plan

Paid training

Annual tool allowance

Uniform voucher

Health insurance

Career advancement

Job summary

Cincinnati Metro is looking for an Access Mechanic to support the Access Paratransit fleet in Hamilton County. You’ll use diagnostic skills and mechanical expertise to keep vehicles safe, reliable, and ready to serve riders with mobility needs.

The Access Maintenance Team works on wheelchair lifts, ramps, and accessible systems, with paid training and clear paths for career growth within Metro.

Qualifications

• GED or high school diploma required.
• 18+ years old; valid driver's license; clean MVR.
• Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• 3+ years as full-time journey level mechanic or equivalent.
• Own tools required and basic automotive/heavy-duty knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Understand theory, operation, and repair of engines, HVAC, safety and braking systems.
• Read and interpret manuals, schematics, and TSBs.
• Perform engine/transmission replacements and electrical diagnostics.
• Maintain safety and quality standards per Metro policies.
• Participate in training and manufacturer certifications.

Skills

3+ years journey level mechanic

Diagnostics

Automotive systems knowledge

Safety compliance

Education

High School Diploma / GED

Job description

Help us keep Cincinnati accessible! As an Access Mechanic at Metro, you do more than routine maintenance work— you perform mission-driven, people-focused service and play a vital role in ensuring our Access Paratransit vehicles are safe, reliable, and ready to serve our riders who depend on door-to-door transit services. In this role, you’ll apply your diagnostic expertise, mechanical skill, and commitment to safety to keep our specialized fleet in top condition, supporting independence and mobility for older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout Hamilton County.

Our Access Maintenance Team works on a unique range of equipment— including wheelchair lifts, ramps, and accessible vehicle systems— in addition to performing standard mechanical and electrical repairs. and enjoy competitive pay, paid training, performance-based career growth, and a generous benefits package. Become an Access Mechanic today and help us keep Cincinnati moving— for everyone!

Access Mechanic Compensation

Metro bases its Access Mechanic pay structure on years of job-specific experience, education, ASE certifications, and mechanical aptitude assessments scores. Metro offers paid training for those who wish to become a Transit Technician but do not currently possess a commercial driver’s license and passenger endorsement.

• Access Mechanic A Starting Pay Rate: $33.85 / HR up to $37.95* based on job and certifications
• Access Mechanic B Starting Pay Rate: $29.55 / HR up to $33.65* based on job and certifications

* Additional $.50 / HR shift differential * Additional $.40 / HR per qualified ASE certification for each approved certification

Access Mechanic Job Duties, Physical Demands, & Qualifications

Job Duties

• Understand the theory, operation, and repair of gas / diesel engines, heating and cooling, safety systems, brake systems, wheelchair lifts, ramps, and accessible vehicle systems
• Learn and follow Metro’s industrial and shop safety rules
• Work safely in accordance with Metro policies and federal, state, and local regulations
• Read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and TSBs
• Effectively use computers and the company’s software programs for inventory and parts
• Must be able to properly prioritize, implement and manage work schedules, projects and assignments
• Perform engine and transmission replacements, air conditioning repairs, drivability diagnosis and electrical and wiring problems
• Participate in training, manufacturer certifications, and professional development programs
• Stay current with emerging technologies, including alternative fuel systems and advanced diagnostics
• Apply new tools, techniques, and best practices to improve maintenance efficiency and fleet reliability
• Perform other duties as assigned or required

Physical Demands

• Lifting, lowering, and carrying objects weighing up to 50 lbs.(F)
• Standing, walking, sitting, climbing ladders, balancing, kneeling, crouching/squatting, crawling, lower back movements, reaching (horizontal/vertical), elbow movements, wrist movements, fine motor finger movements(F)
• Operating motor coach for diagnostic purposes(F)
• Standing or walking in awkward or cramped positions(O)
• Neck movements, gripping, and foot action(F)
• Performing repetitive motions(F)
• Exerting moderate force to move objects(F)
• Maintaining focus in noisy environments(C)
• Using hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, and visual acuity for detail-oriented tasks involving motor coaches and other machinery(C)
• Having mental alertness for safety and diagnostics (C)
• Using fine motor skills to manipulate tools with precision(C)

N (Not Applicable): Activity is not applicable to this occupation.

O (Occasionally): Occupation requires this activity up to 33% of the time (0 – 2.5+ hours a day)

F (Frequently): Occupation requires this activity from 33% - 66% of the time (2.5 – 5.5+ hours a day)

C (Constantly): Occupation requires this activity more than 66% of the time (5.5+ hours a day)

Qualifications

• High School Graduate or General Education Degree (GED)
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• No more than 4 points on motor vehicle report
• Be available to work various work schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Have taken basic automotive or heavy-duty repair courses
• 3+ years of experience as a full-time journey level mechanic OR a combination of experience and training preferred but not required
• Must have working knowledge of automotive/heavy duty systems
• Employee shall provide and maintain their own tools necessary to perform the duties of this position

Why Choose a Career at Metro?

Compensation

• Competitive starting hourly wage and paid training
• Additional $.50 / HR shift differential
• Additional $.40 / HR per qualified ASE certification for each approved certification
• Overtime available across all shifts

Perks and Benefits

• Union / seniority based
• Regular schedule picks provide variability in your job responsibilities
• Annual tool allowance provided after qualifying time in role
• Annual uniform voucher after probationary period ends
• Free Metro bus pass for employees, spouses, and eligible dependents
• Ohio Public Employee Retirement Savings (OPERS) pension plan
• No longer have to pay into social security
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Optional flexible and health spending accounts
• Performance-based career advancement
• Opportunity to retake assessments after six months of employment
• Paid training on diesel, gasoline, and alternate fuel fleet technology

Metro is an Equal Opportunity/ We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship status, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, termination, promotions, or any other conditions of employment or career development.