Mechanic

American Safety Transit LLC is looking for a DOT Mechanic to join our Port Arthur, TX Division! This is an opportunity to be part of a growing organization that values safety, reliability, and craftsmanship in every aspect of our operations. We are committed to investing in our team, providing the tools, training, and support needed to succeed and advance your career. If you take pride in your work, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and want to be part of a company where your skills directly impact safe and dependable transportation, we encourage you to apply and grow with us.

At American Safety, our mechanics are a critical part of keeping our fleet safe, reliable, and ready to serve our customers every day. We are seeking a skilled DOT Mechanic for our Port Arthur, Texas operation to support the inspection, maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of our commercial passenger transportation fleet. American Safety Transit offers consistent, year-round work, a professional shop environment, company-supported training, opportunities for advancement into Lead Mechanic, Shop Foreman, Fleet Maintenance Management, Safety, and Operations, and a comprehensive benefits package including company-supported medical coverage, dental, vision, employer-paid life and AD&D insurance, and short- and long-term disability protection. Our maintenance professionals are treated as skilled tradespeople and valued members of a team built around safety, reliability, professionalism, and long-term career growth.

Position Summary

The DOT Mechanic position is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, repair, and regulatory compliance of DOT-regulated commercial motor vehicles and passenger carriers in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), including 49 CFR Parts 393–396, and Company maintenance policies. This position is structured into three progressive levels (Level I, Level II, Level III) based on experience, certifications, technical capability, and demonstrated competence. Each level builds upon the previous, with increasing responsibility, independence, and leadership expectations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (All Levels)

• Perform preventive maintenance inspections (PMIs) on buses, shuttles, motor coaches, and other DOT-regulated vehicles
• Inspect, service, and repair braking, steering, suspension, lighting, drivetrain, HVAC, and electrical systems
• Ensure all vehicles meet DOT safety and out-of-service criteria prior to release
• Accurately document inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities using company-approved DOT forms and systems
• Follow all company safety procedures, OSHA standards, lockout/tagout protocols, and PPE requirements
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of shop areas, tools, and assigned service vehicles
• Identify unsafe conditions or mechanical deficiencies and report them immediately
• Support emergency road calls and after-hours maintenance as operationally required
• Participate in required training, safety meetings, and compliance initiatives

LEVEL-SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Level I – Entry / Apprentice Mechanic

• Assist with inspections and basic repairs under supervision
• Perform oil changes, lubrication, filter replacement, tire checks, and minor services
• Support senior mechanics during diagnostics and repairs
• Participate in structured training and skill development
• Document work accurately under guidance

Level II – Skilled / Journeyman Mechanic

• Independently perform diagnostics and repairs on most vehicle systems
• Conduct PMIs and document compliance with minimal supervision
• Perform road tests following major repairs
• Mentor Level I mechanics and apprentices
• Identify recurring maintenance issues and recommend corrective actions

Level III – Senior / Master Mechanic

• Perform advanced diagnostics and major component repairs (engines, transmissions, ABS, emissions)
• Conduct and sign off on DOT Annual Inspections (49 CFR §396.17)
• Oversee preventive maintenance programs and quality control
• Lead, train, and evaluate Level I and Level II mechanics
• Audit DOT maintenance records and ensure regulatory readiness
• Serve as technical liaison with OEMs, vendors, and operations leadership
• Recommend improvements in maintenance scheduling, cost control, and fleet reliability

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS (PROGRESSIVE BY LEVEL)

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required (all levels)
• Technical / Vocational or Associate’s Degree preferred (Levels II–III)

Experience

• Level I: 0–2 years basic vehicle maintenance or vocational training
• Level II: Minimum 3 years commercial vehicle maintenance experience
• Level III: Minimum 5 years heavy-duty or motor coach maintenance experience

Licensing & Certifications

• Valid driver’s license required (all levels)
• CDL Class B with Passenger (P) Endorsement:
• Preferred (Levels I–II)
• Required (Level III)
• DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate required
• ASE Certifications preferred (Levels II–III)
• ASE Master or OEM certifications required or obtained within 12 months (Level III)

Regulatory Knowledge

• Working knowledge of FMCSA 49 CFR Part 396 (Levels II–III)
• Expert knowledge of FMCSR Parts 393–396 and DOT inspection authority (Level III)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Mechanical aptitude and strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and service bulletins
• Proficiency with diagnostic tools and maintenance management software
• Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy
• Effective communication and teamwork across departments
• Leadership and mentoring capability (Levels II–III)

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to lift 75 lbs (Level I) up to 100 lbs (Levels II–III)
• Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, climbing, and tool handling
• Exposure to noise, vibration, grease, fumes, and outdoor weather conditions
• Compliance with all safety, environmental, and hazardous materials standards

Career Progression

• Level I → Level II: Demonstrated competency, training completion, and performance
• Level II → Level III: Mastery of diagnostics, compliance, and leadership capability
• Level III Advancement: Lead Mechanic, Fleet Maintenance Supervisor, or Regional Maintenance Manager

Cross-Training Requirement

While this job description defines primary responsibilities, employees may be required to perform additional duties outside their regular role as business needs arise. Cross-training supports operational continuity and team effectiveness.

Employment Relationship and Right-to-Work Notice

Employment with American Safety LLC is at-will, meaning either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and for any lawful reason or no reason at all, in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. American Safety Transit LLC operates in several Right-to-Work states, where employees are not required to join or financially support a labor union as a condition of employment. This policy reflects the Company’s commitment to maintaining a fair, open, and compliant workplace environment.

Equal Employment Policy

American Safety Transit LLC’s hiring, and employment practices are based on job qualifications, performance, and/or conduct without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, height, weight, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $43,084 - $63,415