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City of San Luis Obispo

Mechanic Helper

City of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California, us, 93403

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If you are selected for interviews, they will take place in person on Thursday, December 11, 2025, so please hold that date.

Job Summary

Under close supervision, receives work training and formal instruction in diagnosing, inspecting and repairing the City’s fire apparatus vehicles, automotive fleet, heavy construction equipment, power‑driven equipment and related equipment.

Class Characteristics

This single job class functions in an entry‑level mechanic classification. Initially under immediate supervision, incumbents receive on‑the‑job training which allows them to progress in skill level to performing journey‑level tasks. This classification is distinguished from the Heavy Equipment Mechanic in that the latter performs the more complex and specialized types of duties and functions at a journey level.

Supervision Received And Exercised

The Mechanic Helper reports to a senior management staff member and works under the direct supervision of skilled journeyman mechanics. This incumbent works with increasing independence as technical competence increases.

Examples Of Duties And Responsibilities

Assists journey level mechanics, receives on the job instruction and training, and progressively becomes increasingly skilled and able to work more independently.

Drives automotive equipment to work sites and may drive combination vehicles in hauling automotive power equipment to the repair shop.

Learns to repair and adjust internal combustion engines, transmissions, differentials, mechanical linkages, ignitions, electrical, fuel and cooling systems and small motorized equipment; adjust brakes.

Assists journey‑level mechanics in major repair work such as disassembling or assembling motors and accessory parts.

Responsible for repairing and maintaining fire vehicles, including light, medium, and heavy‑duty apparatus, and equipment as assigned by the Fire Vehicle Mechanic.

Cross‑trains under the Heavy Equipment Mechanic designee to include Police, Utilities and Public Works vehicles and equipment.

Reports equipment maintenance and repair needs to the assigned journey level mechanic.

Performs preventive maintenance and general repair work to City apparatus, including light, medium, heavy vehicles and other equipment.

Washes and fuels vehicles and equipment.

Purchases supplies and equipment as needed.

Tests equipment as assigned.

Records activities including daily time keeping and repair orders.

Maintains accountability of equipment and supply inventory.

Performs preventative maintenance on all facilities and equipment as assigned.

Operates all safety equipment.

Courteously and efficiently interacts with customers and vendors.

Maintains the cleanliness and organization of the maintenance area and service equipment.

Performs related duties similar to the above in scope and function as required.

Knowledge And Abilities

Knowledge of:

Methods and tools used in repair and maintenance of automotive vehicles and equipment

City‑wide safety policy and practices and adherence to responsibilities concerning safety prevention, reporting and monitoring.

Basic computer skills using Microsoft Windows Office Suite applications and computerized fleet work order systems.

Ability to

Work after‑hour callbacks and overtime if needed (including weekends and holidays).

Maintain continuing education and certifications.

Establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties.

Meet the physical requirements necessary to safely and effectively perform required duties.

Education And Experience

High School Diploma or GED; Completion of automotive or truck vocational school classes are desirable; and aptitude for automotive mechanical maintenance and repair; and any combination equivalent to sufficient experience, training and/or education to demonstrate the knowledge and abilities listed above.

Completion of a recognized automotive training program is desirable.

Possession And Maintenance Of

A valid California Class "C" driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.

A valid California Class "B" license or the ability to obtain within twelve (12) months and participation in the Department of Transportation (DOT) drug testing program.

Basic hand tools to perform assigned repairs and servicing within the first twelve (12) months of employment.

Current First Aid and CPR certifications desirable.

California State Fire Mechanic courses and certifications desirable.

Basic ASE certifications such as: T-4 Truck Brakes, T-6 Truck Suspension & Steering, A-4 Automotive Steering & Suspension or A-5 Automotive Brakes are desirable.

THIS POSITION WILL BE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING BEFORE A FINAL OFFER IS MADE

Pre‑employment Physical

Pre‑employment DOT Drug Screening

Live Scan Fingerprinting (DOJ)

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