Mechanic

This is skilled mechanic work in the maintenance of vehicles and related equipment. Work involves responsibility for the performance of skilled tasks in the mechanical maintenance and repair of motor graders, bulldozers, trucks, tractors, automobiles, and other standard and special equipment operated by the County. Job assignments range from minor adjustments to complete engine overhauls and component rebuilds.

Employees of this class are expected to exercise independent judgment as to method of repair on most assignments. Work may include responsibility for directing the work of other personnel assigned to assist. Work is reviewed by supervisory or operating personnel for acceptability in progress and upon completion, and is performed under the general supervision of the Shop/Equipment Maintenance Supervisor.Diagnoses trouble and performs mechanical repairs and adjustments on power, drive, brake, steering, electrical, cooling and related systems on light and heavy equipment.

Performs major and minor engine tune-ups and adjustments, grinds and adjusts valves, installs rebuilt motors and may perform complete motor overhauls. Reconditions and replaces parts, such as pistons, bearings, gears, bushings, tie rods, steering sectors, springs and shock absorbers. Operates gas and electric welding equipment.

May be required to operate equipment when necessary, including snow plowing. Orders and picks up parts and materials. Keeps work area clean and orderly. May assign work to personnel as temporary assistants. Performs other work as required.

Responsible to observe all Watonwan County safety and health rules and to apply the principles of accident prevention in day-to-day duties. Training and Experience - Requires completion of an 18 to 24 month post-secondary course in Diesel Mechanics or the equivalent, or at least 4 years of "hands-on" work experience. Must obtain Class A CDL with passenger endorsement within 6 months of hire (assistance available). Must obtain DOT certification within one year.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills - Considerable knowledge of the practices, methods, tools and materials used in maintenance of Public Works equipment. Skill in use and care of tools, precision measuring instruments and equipment. Considerable knowledge of the operating principles of diesel and gasoline engines. Considerable knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of equipment repair work.

Ability to follow oral and written instructions. Ability to maintain a good working relationship with other employees and the public.

Ability to perform manual labor associated with major mechanical repair work. Ability to work under a variety of weather conditions. Ability to lift at least 80 pounds from ground level to chest height. Physical agility to climb, balance, stoop, exert force and perform other bodily movements to sufficiently operate the required equipment and tools. Special Requirement Required to have personally owned complete set of hand tools.

- Insurance and retirement benefits add a minimum value of $9.91 to $16.26/hour.
- Up to 2 pay increases per year.
- $800 reimbursement per year for purchase of tools.
- $200 boot allowance per year.