What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanic position at Oil Rig Automotive?
- OILRIG AUTOMOTIVEAutomotive Mechanic — Detailed Job DescriptionPosition Overview
The Automotive Mechanic is responsible for diagnosing, servicing, maintaining, and repairing passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks. This position requires the ability to accurately diagnose mechanical, electrical, and drivability concerns and perform repairs correctly the first time.
The mechanic is expected to understand how vehicle systems work together, use proper diagnostic procedures, follow manufacturer specifications, and verify all repairs before the vehicle leaves the shop.
The goal is not simply to replace parts. The goal is to properly diagnose the problem, identify the root cause, repair the vehicle correctly, and verify the repair.
1. ENGINE & ENGINE PERFORMANCE
The mechanic should have a strong understanding of internal combustion engines and be able to diagnose common engine-related concerns.
Engine Mechanical
- Understand four-stroke engine operation.
- Diagnose engine noises, vibration, overheating, and performance concerns.
- Inspect and diagnose:
- Timing chains and timing belts
- Camshaft and crankshaft operation
- Valve train components
- Rocker arms
- Lifters
- Pushrods
- Valve springs
- Head gaskets
- Intake and exhaust manifolds
- PCV systems
- Perform compression testing.
- Perform cylinder leak-down testing when necessary.
- Diagnose low compression and determine possible causes.
- Identify signs of internal engine failure.
- Diagnose oil consumption and excessive oil burning.
- Identify coolant contamination in oil and oil contamination in coolant.
- Diagnose vacuum leaks and abnormal engine vacuum readings.
Engine Performance
Diagnose:
- Rough idle
- Misfires
- Stalling
- Hard starting
- No-start conditions
- Poor acceleration
- Hesitation
- Loss of power
- Poor fuel economy
- Excessive emissions
- Check Engine Light conditions
Understand and diagnose problems involving:
- Spark plugs
- Ignition coils
- Fuel injectors
- Fuel pumps
- Fuel pressure
- Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensors
- Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensors
- Throttle position sensors
- Oxygen sensors
- Air/fuel ratio sensors
- Camshaft position sensors
- Crankshaft position sensors
- Engine coolant temperature sensors
- Throttle bodies
- Variable valve timing systems
2. COMPUTER & ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTICS
The mechanic must understand modern vehicle electrical systems and be capable of using diagnostic equipment.
Diagnostic Scan Tools
Ability to:
- Connect and operate a professional scan tool.
- Retrieve and document diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
- Understand the difference between:
- Current codes
- Pending codes
- History codes
- Permanent codes
- Read live data.
- Compare sensor readings to expected values.
- Perform bidirectional testing when supported.
- Monitor fuel trims.
- Monitor O2/A/F sensor operation.
- Monitor misfire counters.
- Monitor coolant temperature.
- Monitor engine load.
- Monitor throttle position.
- Monitor MAF/MAP readings.
- Perform system resets and relearns when required.
- Clear codes only after the underlying problem has been properly addressed.
Electrical Diagnostics
Understand:
- Voltage
- Amperage
- Resistance
- Continuity
- Ground circuits
- Power circuits
- Voltage drop
- Open circuits
- Short-to-ground
- Short-to-power
- Parasitic draws
Ability to use:
- Digital multimeter
- Test light
- Battery tester
- Charging system tester
- Professional scan tool
Diagnose:
- Battery failures
- Alternator/charging problems
- Starter problems
- Electrical shorts
- Blown fuses
- Poor grounds
- Wiring damage
- Corroded connections
- Parasitic battery drains
- Sensor and actuator circuit problems
3. BRAKE SYSTEMS
The mechanic must be able to inspect, diagnose, and repair complete brake systems.
Brake Inspection
Inspect:
- Brake pads
- Brake rotors
- Brake drums
- Brake shoes
- Calipers
- Caliper slides
- Brake hoses
- Brake lines
- Master cylinder
- Brake booster
- Wheel cylinders
- Parking brake systems
- ABS components
Identify:
- Uneven pad wear
- Rotor damage
- Brake pulsation
- Brake noise
- Brake fluid leaks
- Sticking calipers
- Seized slide pins
- Pulling during braking
- Soft brake pedals
- Hard brake pedals
- Excessive pedal travel
Brake Repairs
Perform:
- Brake pad replacement
- Rotor replacement
- Caliper replacement
- Brake hose replacement
- Brake line repairs
- Brake fluid flushes
- Brake bleeding
- Parking brake repairs
- Drum brake service
- Brake adjustments when applicable
Understand proper torque procedures and verify brake operation after repairs.
4. STEERING & SUSPENSION
The mechanic must be able to diagnose suspension and steering problems that affect vehicle safety, handling, tire wear, and ride quality.
Inspect and diagnose:
- Ball joints
- Tie rods
- Inner tie rods
- Control arms
- Control arm bushings
- Sway bar links
- Sway bar bushings
- Struts
- Shocks
- Coil springs
- Wheel bearings
- Steering racks
- Power steering systems
- Electric power steering systems
- CV axles
- Wheel hubs
Diagnose:
- Clunking
- Knocking
- Steering play
- Vehicle pulling
- Uneven tire wear
- Steering vibration
- Suspension noise
- Excessive body roll
- Poor handling
- Vehicle wandering
Understand how worn suspension and steering components can affect alignment and tire wear.
5. COOLING SYSTEM
Inspect, diagnose, and repair:
- Radiators
- Water pumps
- Thermostats
- Cooling fans
- Fan clutches
- Radiator hoses
- Heater hoses
- Expansion tanks
- Coolant reservoirs
- Radiator caps
- Temperature sensors
- Cooling system pressure
Diagnose:
- Overheating
- Coolant loss
- External coolant leaks
- Internal coolant leaks
- Poor heater performance
- Cooling fan failures
- Thermostat problems
- Water pump failures
Perform cooling-system pressure tests and properly bleed cooling systems when required.
6. HVAC / AIR CONDITIONING
The mechanic should understand basic automotive heating and air-conditioning operation.
Diagnose:
- No cold air
- Weak cooling
- Intermittent cooling
- Compressor concerns
- Refrigerant leaks
- Electrical A/C concerns
- Blower motor problems
- Blower resistor/module failures
- Heater problems
- Blend door problems
- HVAC control problems
Understand the difference between R-134a and R-1234yf systems and follow proper refrigerant handling procedures.
Use A/C service equipment correctly and follow required safety procedures.
7. TRANSMISSION & DRIVETRAIN
Understand the operation and basic diagnostics of:
- Automatic transmissions
- Manual transmissions
- CVTs
- Transfer cases
- Differentials
- Driveshafts
- U-joints
- CV axles
- Wheel hubs
Diagnose:
- Transmission slipping
- Harsh shifting
- Delayed engagement
- Gear-selection problems
- Transmission leaks
- Differential noises
- Driveline vibration
- Clicking CV axles
- Worn U-joints
- Wheel bearing noise
Understand that transmission symptoms can sometimes be caused by electrical, sensor, engine-performance, or control-module problems.
8. EXHAUST & EMISSIONS
Inspect and diagnose:
- Exhaust leaks
- Catalytic converters
- Mufflers
- Resonators
- Exhaust manifolds
- Flex pipes
- Oxygen sensors
- A/F sensors
- EVAP systems
- EGR systems when equipped
Understand common emissions-related DTCs and how to properly diagnose the system before replacing components.
9. FUEL SYSTEMS
Diagnose:
- Fuel pressure problems
- Fuel pump failures
- Fuel injector problems
- Fuel delivery issues
- Fuel leaks
- EVAP problems
- Poor fuel economy
- Hard starting
- Fuel trim problems
Perform fuel pressure testing when appropriate and understand how fuel pressure affects engine performance.
10. DRIVABILITY DIAGNOSTICS
The mechanic must be capable of following a logical diagnostic process.
Diagnostic Process
- Verify the customer’s concern.
- Gather information about the vehicle and symptoms.
- Perform a visual inspection.
- Scan the vehicle for codes when appropriate.
- Review freeze-frame and live data.
- Identify possible causes.
- Test the system instead of immediately replacing parts.
- Determine the root cause.
- Repair the vehicle.
- Clear codes/relearn systems when appropriate.
- Test-drive the vehicle.
- Recheck the system.
- Document the completed repair.
Parts should not be replaced simply because a diagnostic code points toward a particular component. The system must be tested and the cause confirmed whenever practical.
11. PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
Perform and properly inspect:
- Engine oil and filter services
- Air filters
- Cabin air filters
- Wiper blades
- Battery condition
- Belts
- Hoses
- Fluids
- Coolant
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Differential fluid
- Tire condition
- Tire pressure
- Lights
- Leaks
The mechanic should be able to identify maintenance concerns that may prevent future failures and communicate those concerns accurately.
12. VEHICLE INSPECTION
A mechanic should be able to recognize safety concerns including:
- Severely worn brakes
- Damaged tires
- Wheel bearing play
- Steering component wear
- Suspension failures
- Fluid leaks
- Exhaust leaks
- Unsafe wiring
- Structural concerns
- Cooling-system problems
- Engine oil leaks
- Transmission leaks
Safety-related concerns should be immediately communicated to management.
13. TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
The mechanic is responsible for properly using and caring for shop equipment, including:
- Automotive lifts
- Floor jacks
- Jack stands
- Torque wrenches
- Impact tools
- Hand tools
- Diagnostic scan tools
- Multimeters
- Battery testers
- Brake equipment
- A/C service equipment
- Pressure testers
- Specialty tools
Torque specifications must be followed whenever required.
Impact guns should not be used as a substitute for proper final torque.
14. REPAIR QUALITY
Every repair must be completed according to proper repair procedures.
Before returning a vehicle:
- Verify all components are installed correctly.
- Verify electrical connectors are connected.
- Verify hoses and lines are properly secured.
- Verify fluids are at the correct level.
- Verify fasteners are properly tightened.
- Verify wheels are properly torqued.
- Verify no tools or parts have been left in the engine compartment.
- Verify the vehicle is operating properly.
- Perform a test drive when appropriate.
No Comebacks
A mechanic is expected to take ownership of their work.
If a vehicle returns because of an issue related to a previous repair, the mechanic must assist management in determining what happened and how to correct it.
15. CUSTOMER VEHICLE CARE
Customer vehicles must be treated with care.
Mechanics are expected to:
- Protect vehicle interiors when appropriate.
- Avoid unnecessary damage to vehicles.
- Keep tools and equipment away from painted surfaces.
- Report any pre-existing or accidental damage immediately.
- Keep the vehicle clean and organized.
- Never use a customer’s vehicle for personal purposes.
- Never perform unauthorized repairs.
16. TECHNICAL GROWTH
Automotive technology changes constantly. Mechanics are expected to continue developing their skills.
OilRig Automotive encourages mechanics to improve their knowledge of:
- New vehicle technology
- Hybrid systems
- EV systems
- Advanced driver-assistance systems
- CAN-bus communication
- Modern engine management
- Direct injection
- Turbocharging
- Variable valve timing
- Start/stop systems
- Advanced electrical diagnostics
Training and certifications may be required as the technician’s responsibilities increase.
17. WORK ETHIC & EXPECTATIONS
A successful OilRig Automotive mechanic:
- Shows up on time.
- Works efficiently.
- Does not cut corners.
- Diagnoses before replacing parts.
- Asks questions when unsure.
- Does not hide mistakes.
- Keeps their work area clean.
- Takes care of company equipment.
- Communicates problems immediately.
- Helps other team members.
- Continues learning.
- Takes pride in their repairs.
OilRig Automotive Standard
We don’t guess. We diagnose.
We don’t cut corners. We repair it correctly.
We don’t just replace parts. We find the cause.
Every vehicle that leaves the shop should leave safer and better than when it arrived.Communicate professionally with service writers, managers, and other employees.
- Explain mechanical findings and recommended repairs in a way that customers can understand.
- Provide accurate information regarding the condition of a vehicle.
- Never misrepresent a repair, diagnosis, or vehicle condition.
- Ask management for assistance when a diagnosis or repair is outside your experience or authority.
Teamwork
- Work effectively with hood technicians, pit technicians, service writers, and managers.
- Assist other technicians when needed.
- Help maintain efficient workflow throughout the shop.
- Be willing to teach and share knowledge with less-experienced employees.
- Contribute to a positive, professional shop environment.
Performance Expectations
The Automotive Mechanic is expected to:
- Arrive on time and be ready to work at the beginning of each shift.
- Complete assigned work efficiently without sacrificing quality.
- Follow OilRig Automotive procedures consistently.
- Maintain accurate repair and inspection documentation.
- Minimize comebacks by performing quality repairs and verifying work.
- Take responsibility for mistakes and immediately notify management when an issue occurs.
- Protect customer vehicles from damage by using appropriate covers, tools, and procedures.
- Keep tools and equipment organized and properly maintained.
- Treat customers, coworkers, and company property with respect.
- Continuously improve automotive knowledge and technical skills.
Qualifications
Required:
- Basic automotive repair and maintenance knowledge.
- Ability to use common automotive hand and power tools.
- Ability to safely operate shop equipment.
- Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and management.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Reliable attendance and transportation.
- Ability to work in a physically demanding automotive environment.
Preferred:
- Previous professional automotive repair experience.
- ASE certifications.
- Experience with diagnostic scan tools.
- Experience with brake, suspension, steering, cooling, and electrical systems.
- Manufacturer or dealership experience.
Physical Requirements
The position requires the ability to:
- Stand and walk for extended periods.
- Bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and work underneath vehicles.
- Lift and carry automotive parts, tools, and equipment.
- Work in varying temperatures and conditions.
- Safely operate automotive lifts and shop equipment.
- Perform repetitive hand and arm movements.
- Wear required PPE throughout the workday.
Professional Standards
OilRig Automotive expects every mechanic to operate with honesty, integrity, and professionalism.
Employees must never recommend unnecessary repairs, mislead customers, intentionally damage vehicles or equipment, or knowingly perform unsafe work.
Our standard is simple: Treat every vehicle like it is your own—and every customer like they are family.
Pay: $21.00 - $26.00 per hour
Experience:
- Mechanic: 5 years (Required)
- Oil change: 1 year (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $21 - $26