Transit Vehicle Electrical Technician

About the Role

Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) provides exceptional and cost‑effective transportation services that consistently exceed customer expectations while promoting livable communities and sustainable development. The agency values customer service, collaboration, diversity, fiscal accountability, innovation, sustainability and safety, and expects employees to uphold these values and the mission.

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, transit signal priority (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 execute appropriate corrective actions.
• 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 workload permits, perform mechanical and electrical maintenance and repair on transit, paratransit, and support vehicles, including engines (gas, diesel, battery electric, hybrid), 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; handle 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.

Requirements

• 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

• 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 ability to obtain within 180 days of employment.
• Forklift Certification, or 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.

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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Collaboration, diversity awareness, fiscal accountability, customer service, innovation, sustainability, and safety mindset as described in agency values.

Physical Requirements

Ability to perform continuous physical effort, including frequent bending, stooping, walking, standing, kneeling, twisting at the waist, and reaching overhead, and to manipulate, lift, and carry shop equipment and materials; occasionally lifts, pushes/pulls, or carries up to 40 lb. Constant use of both hands for 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 telephone or radio. Good vision to read print and computer screens, and to recognize color differences and perceive three dimensions for accurate and safe maintenance.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a shop/garage environment and onboard and around heavy‑duty transit vehicles; subject to indoor and outdoor environmental conditions, noise, dust, fumes, hazardous materials, chemicals, and vibration. May work outdoors in remote locations and varying weather, and may be exposed to poor ventilation or illumination, loud noise, congestion, and job‑related health hazards. Some duties may be performed in an office environment with noise, distractions, and limited privacy. Operates a motor vehicle.

Pay

Salary Position Range: $41.59 – $46.81 per hour. FLSA Status: Non‑Exempt.