Transit Vehicle Electrical Technician

Salary:

Position Range: $41.59 - $46.81

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

Join the team that keeps the Tri-Cities moving!

OUR MISSION

Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) provides exceptional and cost-effective transportation services that consistently exceed customer expectations while promoting the principles and practices of livable communities and sustainable development.

OUR VALUES

We value customer service, collaboration, diversity, fiscal accountability, innovation, sustainability and safety. Employees and representatives of BFT are expected to uphold our values and mission.

NATURE OF POSITION

Under general supervision, perform skilled testing, diagnosis, preventive maintenance, repair, calibration, and installation of onboard transit vehicle electronic and electrical systems — including communications, surveillance, CAD/AVL, transit signal priority (TSP), and mobile data systems — to support the reliability and fleetwide usability of vehicle technology. When other workload duties allow, perform a full range of mechanical and electrical maintenance and repair work on transit, paratransit, support vehicles and equipment, including troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing gas, diesel, battery electric vehicles and hybrid-powered vehicles and support equipment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Test, diagnose, troubleshoot, repair, calibrate, and install electronic and electrical components and systems on revenue and support vehicles, including communications, surveillance/camera (CCTV/DVR), CAD/AVL, TSP, mobile data terminals, and other onboard technology systems.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on onboard surveillance, communications, mobile data, and other associated vehicle electronic systems.
• Install vehicle technology systems and associated equipment; configure and support onboard and shop computer hardware, software, peripherals, and web-based technologies.
• Troubleshoot solid-state and microprocessor-based control systems; diagnose hardware and software malfunctions and determine and execute the appropriate corrective action.
• Fabricate and install specialized electronic testing systems and fixtures; calibrate and repair test equipment.
• Inspect new microprocessor and solid-state systems installed by outside contractors or vendors for proper operation.
• Update and maintain technical documentation, including installation and configuration records, troubleshooting logs, vendor support records, inspection forms, work orders, and parts/inventory records.
• Participate in evaluating and recommending new vehicle technologies, systems, and equipment, and assist in related procedure development.
• When other workload duties allow, perform mechanical and electrical maintenance and repair on transit, paratransit, and support vehicles, including engines (gas, diesel, battery electric, and hybrid drive), transmissions, differentials, steering and suspension components, air and hydraulic brake systems (including ABS/ATC), wheelchair lift systems, HVAC/air conditioning systems, and electrical subsystems such as multiplex systems, alternators, starters, and fuel injection systems.
• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance servicing on coaches and support vehicles, including lubrication, fuel, cooling, wheelchair lift, air conditioning, transmission, and farebox systems.
• Respond to road calls for emergency repairs as needed.
• Assist in familiarizing and cross-training other Fleet Maintenance staff on transit vehicle electronic and technology systems.
• Operate a computer for data input and retrieval, including maintenance, inventory, and work order systems; prepare activity and status reports; work with and maintain confidential information.
• Use a variety of hand and power tools and shop equipment, such as wrenches, jacks, presses, and diagnostic equipment.
• Demonstrate regular and punctual attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Theory, principles, and diagnostic/repair techniques for analog and digital electronic and electrical circuits and solid-state control systems.
• Tools, equipment, practices, and methods used to install, test, maintain, and repair electronic communications, surveillance, and related vehicle systems and equipment.
• Working knowledge of mobile fare payment infrastructure, including contactless/tap-to-pay readers and related fare technology, sufficient to support integration and troubleshooting alongside other onboard systems.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, digital diagrams, and manufacturer specifications and technical manuals.
• Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot hardware and software issues across onboard vehicle systems and shop-based computer systems.
• Knowledge of gas, diesel, battery electric and hybrid-drive vehicle systems and electrical systems sufficient to identify, analyze, and correct malfunctions in a timely manner to maximize fleet availability.
• Knowledge of shop techniques, procedures, and general shop safety practices.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and relevant maintenance, inventory, or dispatch software.
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, to end users, technicians, and management.
• Ability to prepare written reports and document defects and repairs on inspection forms, work orders, or designated computer programs.
• Ability to learn new technologies, operating systems, policies, and procedures as introduced in the transit industry.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; apply sound organizational and time-management skills; meet deadlines and comply with Agency policies.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in making decisions; focus on tasks and recall details while handling frequent interruptions.
• Ability to recognize differences in color and perceive three dimensions to ensure accuracy and safety in equipment maintenance.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of business.

OTHER CHARACTERISTICS

• Collaboration: Shares time and knowledge with others; adjusts priorities as circumstances dictate; follows through on commitments, accepts responsibility for actions, resolves interpersonal conflicts constructively.
• Diversity: Demonstrates an awareness and respect of cultural and individual values. Treats all people with dignity, courtesy and respect.
• Fiscal Accountability: Actively contributes to the productivity of the agency; demonstrates good stewardship of company time and resources; displays high standards of ethical conduct.
• Customer Service: Anticipates the needs of internal and external customers; delivers quality work products and services within expected timeframes. Considers and responds appropriately to people in various situations.
• Innovation: Considers new approaches to situations; encourages ideas and improvements.
• Sustainability: Actively encourages environmental benefits and the conservation of natural resources.
• Safety: Adheres to safety related laws, regulations, standards, and practices; performs work in a safe manner; encourages and supports others to be safe while at work.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Associate's degree in Electronics Technology, Computer Technology, or a related field from an accredited institution and one (1) year of experience in electronic maintenance and repair; or three (3) years of experience as a journey-level mechanic/technician performing transit or heavy-duty vehicle electrical/electronic repair; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Must possess a valid driver's license.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Must obtain and maintain the following licenses and certifications:

• Commercial Driver License (CDL) Class B with passenger endorsements and no air brake restrictions, and corresponding medical certification, or ability to obtain within 180-days of employment.
• First Aid certification, or the ability to obtain within 180-days of employment.
• Forklift Certification, or the ability to obtain within 180-days of employment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with TripSpark software and hardware, Seon camera and DVR systems, or Kenwood digital radio systems, or similar transit ITS platforms.
• MS-SQL and network administration experience.
• Experience with asset management lifecycle planning.
• Understanding of CAD/AVL software platforms.
• Vehicle electrical wiring and power systems experience in the transit industry.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to perform continuous physical effort, including frequent bending, stooping, walking, standing, kneeling, twisting at the waist, and reaching overhead, and the manipulation, lifting, and carrying of shop equipment and materials; occasionally lifts, pushes/pulls, or carries up to 40 pounds. Constant use of both hands in reaching, handling, grasping, and fingering while performing diagnostic and repair work on computer and electronic systems. Occasionally ascends/descends stairs and ladders while maintaining balance, and positions self to access equipment in confined spaces, including under vehicles, dashboards, and server closets. Must be able to hear warning horns when vehicles are in motion and communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone or radio. Good vision to read print and computer screens, and to recognize differences in color and perceive three dimensions to ensure accuracy and safety in equipment maintenance.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a shop/garage environment and onboard and around heavy-duty transit vehicles; subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, noise, dust, fumes, hazardous materials, chemicals, and vibration. May work outdoors in remote locations and in varying weather conditions, and may be exposed to poor ventilation or illumination, loud noise, congestion, and accidents or health hazards on the job. Some duties may be performed in an office environment where noise, distractions, and lack of privacy may be present. Operates a motor vehicle.

If you want to give back to the community, consider hopping onboard the team that's going places!

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy

Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. It is BFT’s policy to employ, train, promote, compensate, and provide conditions of employment without regard to a person’s race, color, sex, disability, religion, national origin, age, veteran’s status, citizenship, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Drug-Free Workplace Policy

Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) is a drug-free workplace.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure worker fitness for duty and to protect our employees, passengers, and the public from the risks posed by the use of alcohol and prohibited drugs.

Participation in BFT’s zero tolerance drug-free workplace policy is a condition of employment.