Automotive Service Technician/Mechanic I

Summary

Entry-level automotive mechanic.  Performs maintenance and repairs on automobiles.  May specialize in maintaining, servicing, and repairing one system or component (or more) on a vehicle, such as brakes, suspension, or radiator.  Responsible for removing, installing, diagnosing, repairing, disassembling and assembling parts, components, and engines.  Perform all duties according to safety procedures.  Knowledgeable of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within the field.  Rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.  Work under immediate supervision.  Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment.  Typically reports to a Maintenance Supervisor or Maintenance Manager.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Inspect vehicles for damage and record findings so that necessary repairs can be made
• Estimate costs of vehicle repair
• Troubleshoot fuel, ignition, and emissions control systems, using electronic testing equipment
• Repair, overhaul, or adjust automobile brake systems
• Test electronic computer components in automobiles to ensure proper operation
• Repair or replace defective ball joint suspensions, brake shoes, or wheel bearings
• Align wheels, axles, frames, torsion bars, and steering mechanisms of automobiles, using special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines
• Tune automobile engines to ensure proper and efficient functioning
• Repair, replace, or adjust defective fuel injectors, carburetor parts, and gasoline filters
• Rebuild, repair, or test automotive fuel injection units
• Change spark plugs, fuel filters, air filters, and batteries in hybrid electric vehicles
• Install or repair air conditioners and service components, such as compressors, condensers, and controls
• Install, adjust, or repair hydraulic or electromagnetic automatic lift mechanisms used to raise and lower automobile windows, seats, and tops
• Repair or rebuild clutch systems
• Repair or replace automobile leaf springs
• Replace defective mufflers and tailpipes
• Operate University of Florida (UF) vehicles
• Perform other duties, as assigned

Education and Experience

• A high school diploma (or equivalent) and zero (0) to two (2) years of experience in the field or in a related area or completion of an apprenticeship and/or formal training/certification program
• Appropriate vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience

Licensure and Certification

Florida Class E operator (driver) license

Supervision

• Typically report to a Maintenance Supervisor or Maintenance Manager
• Work under immediate supervision
• Does not lead, and/or coordinate the work of others
• Does not directly supervise

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.