Diesel Mechanic III

Special Instructions to Applicants:

All interested applicants should attach a resume and cover letter in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in a PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

About Rice:

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. Those values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice’s culture. They come through in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name — RICE — Responsibility, Integrity, Community and Excellence.

Position Summary:
The Diesel Mechanic III position, under direct supervision, performs repairs and overhauls on heavy‑duty trucks and buses with gasoline and diesel engines.

Ideal Candidate Statement:
The ideal candidate has experience working in a team environment and advanced diagnostic skills for electrical systems, air brakes, and diesel and gasoline engines.

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to lift loads up to 75 lbs.

• Must be able to climb stairs, ladders, scaffolding, and work around confined areas with piping and wiring obstructions as needed to access equipment

• Requires moderate to heavy physical activity, including bending, stooping, climbing, balancing, standing, and walking up to 8 hours per day

Physical Environment:

• Requires exposure to high noise levels, rotating and other potentially dangerous equipment

• Requires personal protective equipment such as hearing protection, safety shoes, and safety glasses

• Shop and outdoor field service environment

Work Hours and Travel:

• After‑hours work may be required, including weekends and holidays

• Must be available on a continuous “on‑call” basis for response to problems and emergencies that affect campus operations

Hiring Salary: $29.23 minimum, with hiring salary commensurate with experience and qualifications

*Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under are eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent

• 3+ years of related experience

• Valid Texas Driver’s License with no more than three moving violations or at‑fault accidents within the past 36 months, and no convictions or deferred dispositions for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) within the past 3 years

Skills:

• Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing

• Proficient in the use of diagnostic scan equipment and computer‑based software (OEM preferred)

• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to work independently

Preferences:

• CDL preferred but not required

• Ability to interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, and technical manuals

• Three years of related experience in vehicle maintenance in industry or institutional settings, including selection, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of vehicles and motorized equipment

• Ability to use a work order system or maintenance software system

• Welding and fabrication skills a plus

• Prior fleet maintenance experience (bus, transit, and paratransit vehicles)

• Experience with passenger entry doors and wheelchair lift operations and repair

Essential Functions:

• Performs advanced diagnostics and repairs on diesel and gasoline engines, transmissions, drivetrains, air brakes, suspension, and steering systems

• Performs troubleshooting and repairs of complex electrical systems using OEM and aftermarket diagnostic software and scan tools

• Conducts preventive maintenance inspections and services on heavy‑duty trucks, buses, and related equipment

• Delivers high‑standard maintenance and customer service to all customers

• Diagnoses and repairs HVAC systems, emission systems, and DEF after‑treatment systems

• Performs repairs to suspension and driveline components such as replacing universal joints, shocks, struts, and bushings

• Diagnoses and repairs EZ‑GO and Club Car golf carts

• Accurately documents diagnostic findings, repair actions, and parts used

• Ensures compliance with safety regulations, DOT standards, and university policies

• Mentors and assists lower‑level mechanics with troubleshooting and repairs

• Cleans and maintains shop, equipment, and tools

• Performs all other duties as assigned

Additional Functions / Information:

• Picks up parts/equipment in the Houston metro area

• Transports vehicles to off-site repair shops

Rice Mission and Values: