Diesel Mechanic III

About the role

Rice University is seeking a Diesel Mechanic III to perform repairs and overhauls on heavy-duty trucks and buses with gasoline and diesel engines. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a team environment and advanced diagnostic skills for electrical systems, air brakes, and diesel and gasoline engines.

Responsibilities

• Performs advanced diagnostics and repairs on diesel and gasoline engines, transmissions, drivetrains, air brakes, suspension, and steering systems
• Conducts troubleshooting and repairs of complex electrical systems using OEM and aftermarket diagnostic software and scan tools
• Conducts preventive maintenance inspections and services on heavy-duty trucks, buses, and related equipment
• Delivers high-standard maintenance and customer service to all customers
• Diagnoses and repairs HVAC systems, emission systems, and DEF after-treatment systems
• Performs repairs to suspension and driveline components such as replacing universal joints, shocks, struts, and bushings
• Diagnoses and repairs EZ-Go and Club Car golf carts
• Accurately documents diagnostic findings, repair actions, and parts used
• Maintains compliance with safety regulations, DOT standards, and university policies
• Mentors and assists lower-level mechanics with troubleshooting and repairs
• Cleans and maintains shop, equipment, and tools

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 3+ years of related experience
• Valid Texas Driver’s License with no more than three moving violations or at-fault accidents within the past 36 months, and no convictions or deferred dispositions for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) within the past 3 years

Skills

• Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing
• Proficient in the use of diagnostic scan equipment and computer-based software (OEM preferred)
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently

Preferences

• CDL preferred but not required
• Ability to interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, and technical manuals
• Three years of related experience in vehicle maintenance in industry or institutional settings, including selection, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of vehicles and motorized equipment
• Experience with passenger entry doors and wheelchair lift operations and repair
• Welding and fabrication skills a plus
• Prior fleet maintenance experience (bus, transit, and paratransit vehicles)

Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift loads up to 75 lbs.
• Must be able to climb stairs, ladders, scaffolding, and work around confined areas with piping and wiring obstructions as needed to access equipment
• Requires moderate to heavy physical activity, including bending, stooping, climbing, balancing, standing, and walking up to 8 hours per day
• Requires exposure to high noise levels, rotating and other potentially dangerous equipment
• Requires personal protective equipment such as hearing protection, safety shoes, and safety glasses
• Shop and outdoor field service environment
• Work Hours And Travel: After-hours work may be required, including weekends and holidays. Must be available on a continuous "on-call" basis for response to problems and emergencies that affect campus operations

Hiring Salary

The starting salary for this position is $29.23 per hour, with hiring salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Non-exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime.

Benefits

Rice University offers competitive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information, visit Rice Mission and Values | Rice University.

Special Instructions to Applicants

All interested applicants should attach a resume and cover letter in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in a PDF format to avoid any formatting issues. Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities.