DOT Mechanic

About the Role:

The DOT Mechanic plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and compliance of rental and leasing service vehicles with Department of Transportation regulations. This position involves performing thorough inspections, diagnosing mechanical issues, and executing repairs on a wide range of vehicles to maintain operational readiness. The mechanic will be responsible for maintaining detailed records of all maintenance and repairs to ensure regulatory compliance and support fleet management decisions. By proactively identifying potential mechanical problems, the DOT Mechanic helps prevent breakdowns and costly downtime, contributing to overall customer satisfaction and business efficiency. This role requires a strong commitment to safety standards and continuous improvement in vehicle maintenance practices.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid certification as a DOT Inspector or equivalent recognized certification.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in vehicle maintenance and repair, preferably in a commercial or fleet environment.
• Strong knowledge of DOT regulations and vehicle safety standards.
• Ability to use diagnostic equipment and hand tools effectively.

Preferred Qualifications:

• ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification.
• Experience working with rental or leasing service fleets.
• Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or experience operating commercial vehicles.
• Advanced training in diesel engine repair and heavy vehicle systems.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive DOT inspections on rental and leased vehicles to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Diagnose mechanical and electrical issues using diagnostic tools and hands-on techniques.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake repairs, tire rotations, and engine tune-ups.
• Repair or replace defective parts including brakes, steering components, suspension systems, and electrical wiring.
• Maintain accurate and detailed service records, documenting all inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities.
• Collaborate with fleet managers to schedule maintenance and prioritize repairs to minimize vehicle downtime.
• Ensure all work is performed in accordance with safety standards and company policies.
• Stay updated on DOT regulations and industry best practices to maintain compliance and improve service quality.

Skills:

The DOT Mechanic utilizes technical diagnostic skills daily to identify and resolve mechanical issues efficiently, ensuring vehicles meet stringent safety standards. Strong problem-solving abilities are essential for troubleshooting complex vehicle systems and implementing effective repairs. Communication skills are important for documenting maintenance activities clearly and coordinating with fleet management to optimize vehicle availability. Knowledge of DOT regulations guides the mechanic in performing compliant inspections and maintaining accurate records. Additionally, proficiency with diagnostic tools and computerized systems enhances the mechanic’s ability to deliver timely and high-quality maintenance services.