Bus Mechanic - $7,500 Hiring Bonus!

TriMet; Portland (OR); On-site; Full time

Job summary

TriMet is seeking a heavy-duty diesel mechanic to perform a wide range of repair and maintenance tasks on transit vehicles. Candidates must possess a High School Diploma/G.E.D., along with training in Diesel Technology and relevant experience. This role emphasizes safety, collaboration, and efficient operations, with a competitive salary based on industry standards.

Qualifications

• 18 months of training in Diesel Technology at an accredited program.
• Two years of recent experience as a heavy-duty diesel mechanic required.
• Ability to pass physical and drug tests and lift at least 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Perform repair and maintenance on Revenue Service Transit vehicles.
• Diagnose equipment malfunctions and conduct preventive maintenance inspections.
• Perform road call service on defective equipment.

Skills

Welding

Machine operations

Effective communication

Education

High School Diploma/G.E.D.

Training in Diesel Technology and power systems

Job description

Perform and support a wide variety of repair and maintenance services on District-owned Revenue Service Transit vehicles. These services include, but are not limited to: rebuilding, repairing, and maintaining engines, transmissions, differentials, gear components, and related parts; repairing and maintaining passenger/operator seating and upholstery; completing repairs to the body and structure; preparing and painting vehicles; providing welding, metal fabrication, and machining services as necessary. Perform similar duties on District-owned Non-Revenue vehicles (NRVs).

Reliable in-person attendance is an essential function of all positions. TriMet is an in-person first organization, emphasizing collaboration, customer service, and safe, efficient operations. Some positions may allow up to two days of remote work depending on department policy, business needs, and managerial discretion.

Ensure a commitment to safety through consistent, professional behaviors that demonstrate safety as a fundamental value guiding all aspects of work. Perform related duties as required.

Serve as a good steward of TriMet by utilizing our transit system regularly to maintain a current understanding of customer experiences and our product and service offerings.

TriMet has been ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of the top five places to work in Oregon, and the top Oregon-based employer in the state for Transportation and Logistics.

• Diagnose equipment malfunctions (electrical, air brakes, suspension, heating and cooling, transmission, engine, lift, etc.), identify defective components, and complete necessary repairs.
• Perform road call service on defective equipment, identify problems, and take appropriate action to restore vehicles to revenue service or garage.
• Conduct preventive maintenance inspections, assess vehicle condition, and identify worn or damaged parts.
• Diagnose engine and transmission malfunctions, identify defective parts, and complete repairs. Accurately fill out parts issue slips and repair orders.
• Use district equipment, parts, and supplies safely and report defects as needed.
• Perform battery charging and maintenance as required.
• Repair and replace windshields, windows, mirrors, interior parts, and accessories.
• Perform frame repairs and install rubber flooring.
• Perform machining operations using metal lathes, drill presses, shapers, grinders, welding equipment, and hand tools.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Tag defective parts in support of the maintenance warranty program.

Minimum qualifications include a High School Diploma/G.E.D. and 18 months of training in Diesel Technology and power systems at an accredited program. Two years of recent experience as a heavy-duty diesel mechanic is required. Transit or trucking fleet experience is preferred. Alternatively, three years of journey-level mechanical work in transit, bus, over-the-road coach, or medium-duty truck maintenance within the last five years is acceptable.

Applicants must pass a qualifying written and/or hands-on test, possess or obtain a Class A or B CDL with Passenger Endorsement and no restrictions on airbrakes, and meet driving record standards.

Additional skills include operating district vehicles, knowledge of maintenance and repair practices, welding, machine operations, and effective communication. Ability to work various shifts, pass physical and drug tests, and lift at least 50 pounds is required.

Position details: Union, Non-Exempt, Full-Time, minimum wage $43.83, according to current agreement. Selection involves application review, driving record check, verification of education, practical assessments, interviews, background checks, drug screening, and medical exam.

Applicants are encouraged to detail their relevant education and experience and attach supporting documents. Internal applicants should note personnel file information isn't a substitute for application details. Veterans may apply for preference points with proper documentation. Accommodations for disabilities are available upon request.