Metro Transit’s ridership is rebounding after a drop during the pandemic.
That’s why the public transit system is in urgent need of more mechanics and vehicle technicians to keep the buses, light rail, and commuter trains running for the community.
Metro Transit is hiring mechanics and it’s an opportunity that comes with top-tier wages, competitive benefits, and a guaranteed pension, all sweetened by a hiring bonus of up to $4000.
“These are technically oriented jobs, puzzles, and problems to solve. When a bus has an issue, you find out what’s wrong with it; it’s engaging, detailed work,” explained Ken Richardson, a Metro Transit instructional designer who works on training and recruits mechanics and vehicle technicians.
Metro Transit is seeking workers to do the important jobs of diagnosing, repairing, and performing preventative maintenance on Metro Transit buses, light rail and commuter trains, and other vehicles. Metro Transit is also hiring maintenance-of-way technicians for tracks and railway systems.
“Applicants can choose if they want to go into light rail or bus maintenance. Whichever they choose, it’s easy to move from one division to another,” Richardson said. “Both are needed right now.”
The positions are stable ones, with no worries about layoffs that mechanics may face in the private sector, where there are slowdowns at auto shops. The jobs are ideal for candidates with a high school diploma or GED and background experience or education in mechanical or automotive services or troubleshooting.
Starting pay ranges from $29.72 to $41 an hour. The $4,000 hiring bonus applies to all positions, with $2,000 after 30 days of employment and the second $2,000 bonus delivered after six months, when the probationary period is completed.
Metro Transit is an equal-opportunity employer. Richardson, who identifies as “an autistic individual,” has found the work to be right up his alley.
“Not to make an overly broad stereotype, but folks like myself excel and are a good fit in these positions,” he said. “Those of us who have analytical minds and attention to detail in the way our brains work can be strong employees that add a lot to the organization.”
Some of what Richardson called “very nice perks” of the job include a bus/rail pass, (valued at over $1200 per year) fitness centers and parking at many job locations, an Employee Assistance program, and extensive health and wellness resources. Metro Transit employees can choose between two or more medical plans that also provide dental, life, and vision insurance.
There’s also the benefit of being in a career that is helpful to the community.
“I’ve relied on public transit for many years. I feel like this job helps me give back,” said Richardson.
To learn more about pursuing a career with Metro Transit, go to www.metrotransit.org/mechanic-hiring.
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