Automotive Research Assistant presso City of Detroit, MI

About the Department

The City of Detroit's Department of Transportation is currently accepting applications for an Automotive Research Assistant for their Vehicle Maintenance division.  

Under general supervision, conduct inspections and assist in testing automotive components and material. Prepare and implement equipment maintenance and repair procedure and assist in the development of and participate in the training of vehicle maintenance personnel.

Position Duties

• Conduct periodic inspections, and report on the operational performance of test models.
• Conduct tests on transit equipment components and materials.
• Oversee the fabrication of design models for installation on vehicles or use in shop floor training demonstrations.
• Collect samples of materials for laboratory testing.
• Perform simple laboratory tests on fuels, lubricants and materials.
• Conduct detailed analyses of components in operation and the physical properties of their elements.
• Conduct practical technical observations and provide recommendations on tested materials and components.
• Consult maintenance journals and bulletins for current test information.
• Research and document manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices for original equipment.
• Develop standardized maintenance schedules and procedures and assist in the preparation of service and maintenance bulletins and parts and supply specifications.
• Instruct mechanics in the classroom or on the floor with the use of vehicle component models or other training materials.
• Review parts catalogues and marketing bulletins for interchangeable components.
• Review maintenance periodicals and manuals for new techniques, methods, and materials.
• Test proposed new maintenance recommendations from mechanics.
• Inspect components for adherence to specifications and provide recommendations.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. (General Education Development) equivalent. 
• Three (3) years of experience in the repair and overhaul of transit equipment, preferably with large transportation coaches.  

Other Qualifications

Evaluation Plan

• Interview: 70%
• Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 30%
• Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100%

• Veteran Points: 0 – 15 points
• Detroit Residency Credit:   15 points