Under general supervision, learns to inspect, diagnose, overhaul and make major repairs to diesel, hydraulic, construction and other similar equipment; may assist in the repair of automobiles, light trucks, and other gasoline-powered equipment, in a training capacity; and does related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3 of the Civil Service Rules.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This is the apprentice/trainee class in the Heavy Equipment Mechanic series where an employee is trained to become proficient and responsible for the repair of heavy diesel, hydraulic, and other specialized equipment, including Public Works construction equipment.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Learns to inspect diesel, hydraulic, construction and other similar equipment in the field or shop.
Learns to disassemble and overhaul engines, differentials, transmissions, clutches, alternators, generators, starters, distributors, carburetors, steering mechanisms, brakes, hydraulic apparatus, and other assemblies.
Learns to inspect, repair and overhaul trucks, power shovels, tractors, air compressors, bulldozers, graders, ferries and other equipment.
Learns to rebuild and tune engines using testing equipment; grind valves; set tappet; replace main and connecting rod bearing; inspect and repair automatic and standard transmissions, universal joints, and differentials; and reline and adjust brakes.
Learns to shape metal parts to precise dimensions within the class tolerance by means of a lathe or other precision equipment.
Learns to repair hydraulic systems on construction equipment, and test and make precision adjustments.
Learns to do acetylene and electrical welding and blacksmithing.
Learns to evaluate the condition of cooling systems, locate faults or defects, and make necessary repairs.
Prepares work reports as required.
May assist in directing, instructing and inspecting the work of Equipment Service Workers.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EITHER PATTERN I
Experience: Two years as an Equipment Service Worker III in San Joaquin County service.
OR PATTERN II
Experience: Four years as an Equipment Service Worker II in San Joaquin County service.
OR PATTERN III
Experience: One year performing mechanic work that included inspecting, diagnosing, overhauling and making major repairs to automobiles, trucks, and/or or heavy equipment.
OR PATTERN IV
Experience: Four years performing general non-mechanic, maintenance services on automobiles, light trucks, and other gasoline-powered equipment.
AND FOR ALL PATTERNS
Substitution: Completion of 30 semester (or 45 quarter) units in diesel equipment technology or heavy equipment mechanics from an accredited college or university may be substituted for the required experience in all of the above patterns. Approved coursework must have specifically been related to diesel truck or heavy equipment mechanics and maintenance.
License: Possession of a valid California driver’s license at the time of application. Depending on assignment, may be required to obtain a valid California Class B driver’s license within six months of appointment, and to maintain such license while employed in this class.
KNOWLEDGE
Standard service and maintenance procedures pertaining to medium and heavy road construction equipment; basic mechanical principles related to heavy equipment maintenance and repair, including diesel engines, dray lines, bulldozers, back hoes, and similar equipment; basic methods, materials, tools, standard practices, occupational hazards, and appropriate safety precautions of the heavy equipment mechanic trade; the use of test, welding and other shop equipment.
ABILITY
Learn to diagnose trouble in Public Works road construction equipment and perform the mechanical work required and to make necessary repairs; learn to interpret computer fault codes and operate various testing and repair equipment; learn to do simple acetylene and electric welding; learn to use the tools, machines and testing instruments of the equipment mechanical trade and follow equipment diagrams; understand and carry out oral and written instructions; maintain established schedules and deadlines.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Mobility – frequent standing and walking; occasional pushing, pulling, balancing, bending, twisting, climbing, kneeling, squatting; Lifting/Carrying – frequently 50 pounds or less; occasionally 51 – 70 pounds; Dexterity – frequent handling, reaching, grasping, and fingering; Hearing/Talking – frequent hearing and speaking normal speech and speaking loudly over equipment noise; occasional hearing/talking on a radio; Visual – frequent use of good overall vision, at normal or corrected to normal acuity; frequent use of depth perception and peripheral vision; occasional reading and close-up work; Environmental – frequent exposure to dirt, dust, smoke, fumes, and odors; occasional exposure to varied weather conditions or working with hazardous materials; Emotional/Psychological – frequent concentration; Special Requirements – occasional working overtime, weekends, nights, holidays and/or emergency call-back; occasional travel.
San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.