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Please note that applications are currently not accepted through CalOpps or any other third-party job board application system. To apply, applicants must complete an application via the City of San Jose’s website at www.sanjoseca.gov/citycareers.

About the Department

The City of San José is one of the nation's best-managed cities and one of the top ten cities in which to live, work, and do business. The employees of the City have embraced the following values: Integrity, Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Respect, and Celebration. The City's Public Works Department (PWD) is seeking an individual whose values align with the values of the City's employees.

The Department of Public Works is responsible for delivering capital improvement projects for a wide variety of City facilities and infrastructure, maintaining City facilities and fleet assets, facilitating, and regulating development activities, and providing animal care and services. The Department is committed to high-quality service, partnering with the community, and providing an excellent environment in which to work.

Position Duties

The Department of Public Works is currently seeking to fill one (1) full-time, Communication Installer vacancy.

Salary range for this classification is: $86,508.24- $105,115.92

This range includes an approximate five percent (5%) ongoing non-pensionable pay. Actual salary shall be determined by the final candidates’ qualifications and experience.

Under general supervision of the Buildup Equipment Maintenance Supervisor, the Communications Installer performs duties related to the installation, fabrication, and servicing of automotive electrical systems and devices. This role places special emphasis on emergency lighting and communication systems across a wide range of vehicles, including police vehicles and motorcycles, fire apparatus, and other municipal fleet vehicles.

Installations must meet or exceed OEM manufacturer quality standards and follow industry best practices. This includes proper wire sizing based and circuit protection on electrical loads, strategic equipment placement with an emphasis on serviceability, correct wire routing, effective power distribution, appropriate antenna placement, and proper grounding and power return.

The Communications Installer is also responsible for installing intercom systems, emergency and warning lighting, vehicle electronics, computer equipment and terminals, antennas, and custom non-standard equipment. They must be able to integrate after market components into OEM systems. These systems are commonly utilized in emergency response vehicles and other specialized municipal equipment.

This position requires the following knowledge and abilities in order to be successful in the position: 

• Knowledge and ability to install and diagnose the systems and equipment utilized by the City’s Fleet including sirens, light bars, accessory lighting, FLIR devices, Tracking systems, timers, and the knowledge to interface with those systems when necessary.
• Disassembly and reassembly of vehicles interior panels with emphasis on not damaging the components.  
• Ability to follow verbal/written direction, read/ interpret schematics, schematic symbols, and wire diagrams.
• Ability to accurately document all non-standard installations, complete necessary paperwork, installation forms, and data entry in a timely manner.
• Ability to work effectively and communicate with internal and external stake holders on interconnection and installation. May be required to diagnose issues when necessary.
• Ability to work in a team environment on large projects working within established labor standards to meet project completion goals.
• Data entry and labor hour tracking within in a fleet database

The Communication Installer maybe required to work on weekends and/or holidays when necessary.

How to Apply

To view the full announcement for this exciting opportunity with the City of San Jose and to apply online, please visit the City of San Jose’s careers page by clicking on the URL link below.

Job Announcement URL-https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sanjoseca/jobs/5289714/communications-installer?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs 

The City of Berkeley invites you to apply for the position of Mechanic in the Public Works Department! In this role, you will have the opportunity to work on a variety of equipment including heavy and light trucks, construction equipment, automobiles, other vehicles, and small gasoline engines. The City maintains over 550 vehicles. You will operate a variety of hand, power and shop tools in order to perform maintenance, repairs and overhauls. There are two Equipment Maintenance Shops – one focusing on smaller light duty vehicles and the other focusing on heavy duty vehicles including refuse and recycling trucks.

The Department of Public Works has over 300 employees. In this role, you will work primarily with other Mechanics, Service Technicians, a Lead Mechanic, an Equipment Parts Technician, and administrative and management staff. The Equipment Maintenance Division launched a new asset management software system last year to better manage inventory and repairs.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position is:

Equivalent to graduation from high school and three (3) years experience at a journey level in the maintenance and repair of vehicles or heavy construction equipment. Course completion in appropriate trade school or technical coursework in electric, diesel, or gasoline powered mechanics leading to journey certification can be substituted for up to one (1) year of the required experience.

Other requirements include possession of a valid California driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record. Must possess a valid class "B" California driver's license with no air brakes restriction, Smog Check Inspector license, and Smog Check Repair Technician license before completing probationary period. ASE Certifications are preferred. A class "A" driver's license is desirable.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications must be received by Monday, April 13, 2026 at 5:00 PM PT and must include a completed application, required attachments, and responses to supplemental questions. Please note that resumes are not a substitute for a completed application.

Applications are available in alternative formats (audio-format, braille, large print, electronic text, etc.) upon request to ada@berkeleyca.gov. Please allow 10 days for production of the material in an alternative format.

EXAM PROCESS

The exam process will include, but may not be limited to:

• Application review for minimum qualifications and required documents (qualifying experience will be calculated based on the administrative review date)
• Competitive review and assessment of applicants' education, training, and experience (Training & Experience)
• Performance Exam - Tentatively Scheduled for May 1, 4, and/or 6, 2026

Tests may consist of any combination of written, oral or other exercises or assessment procedures that test content and may include, but are not necessarily limited to, typing, math, reading, writing and analytical skills; problem solving ability; computer and software proficiency, or any other job-related knowledge, skill, ability or qualification. The examination process and dates are subject to change. The City may, without notice, change or eliminate any assessment component as needs dictate. Applicants passing all examination phases will have their names placed on an employment eligible list that hiring departments will use to conduct final selection interviews slated for the week of May 18, 2026.

Reasonable Accommodations: The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment. Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in the examination process must submit a request in writing to hr@berkeleyca.gov at the time of application.

Definition
Under general supervision, the Electro-Mechanic performs skilled electrical/electronic and mechanical work to diagnose, maintain, repair, rebuild, overhaul, service, inspect, and test light rail transit vehicles and equipment.

About the Light Rail Maintenance Department

Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) Maintenance is located at the Guadalupe Light Rail Division. LRV Maintenance is responsible for timely and reliable maintenance, preventive maintenance, inspections, repair and servicing of light rail vehicles and service equipment.

After a light rail vehicle returns from revenue service at the end of each day, Maintenance performs an interior inspection/walk-through of the vehicle, analyzes the Operator Defect Card, performs a visual inspection of the vehicle undercarriage, performs exterior and interior cleaning, cleans and repairs windows and seating, and removes and repairs graffiti and vandalism.

About VTA

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority employs more than 2,000 people dedicated to providing solutions that move Silicon Valley. Unique among transportation organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area, VTA is Santa Clara County’s authority for transit development and operations (light rail and bus), congestion management, transportation-related funding, highway design and construction, real estate and transit-oriented development, and bicycle and pedestrian planning. With local, state, and federal partners, VTA works to innovate the way Silicon Valley moves and provide mobility solutions for all.  

  

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is an independent special district that provides sustainable, accessible, community-focused, innovative, and environmentally responsible transportation options promoting the region's vitality. VTA provides bus, light rail, and paratransit services and participates as a funding partner in regional rail services, including Caltrain, Capital Corridor, and the Altamont Corridor Express.  

To learn more, go to: vta.org

Our Community

Santa Clara County, sometimes referred to as “Silicon Valley”, is unique for its innovation, natural attractions, and social diversity. With numerous amenities and perfect weather, it has long been considered one of the best places in the United States to live and work. calendar of festivals and celebrations supports the community spirit. Nearby open space provides easy access to mountain parks, trails, lakes, streams, and beautiful coastal beaches. San José has received accolades for its vibrant neighborhoods, healthy lifestyle, and diverse attractions from national media, including Business Week and Money magazines.  

  

The county’s population of 1.9 million is the largest in Northern California and is rich in ethnic culture and diversity. Enjoy access and the option to explore our closely neighboring counties of San Francisco and Alameda. 

Definition
Under general supervision, the Electro-Mechanic performs skilled electrical/electronic and mechanical work to diagnose, maintain, repair, rebuild, overhaul, service, inspect, and test light rail transit vehicles and equipment.

Application Deadline: Written test is scheduled for Wednesday, December 18th, 2024 at VTA River Oaks location (subjected to change). 

Classification Bargaining Unit: ATU 

 

 

Essential Job Functions

Typical Tasks

• Performs safety and preventive maintenance inspections of vehicles, systems and equipment;
• Documents defects, maintenance and repairs;
• Tests, maintains, repairs, and overhauls light rail vehicle electrical, electronic and mechanical systems and equipment in accordance with schematic drawings, wiring diagrams, operations manuals and manufacturer instructions;
• Operates and maintains shop equipment and tools;
• Makes time and material cost estimates and maintains records;
• Performs re-railing of equipment;
• Familiarizes other workers in vehicle maintenance and repair, car movements, and maintenance of shop equipment;
• Installs communication devices on cars;
• Maintains a safe and clean shop area;
• Operates computer for related data input and retrieval;
• Prepares written reports, documents defects and repairs on inspection forms, work orders, or designated computer programs;
• May be assigned the work of lower level classes in the job series;
• Performs related work as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Employment Standards
Training and experience equivalent to a high school diploma and four years of experience in the maintenance and repair of electrically powered rail transit vehicles.

OR

Training and experience equivalent to completion of a two-year degree in electronic technology and two years of experience in the installation, maintenance or repair of electro-mechanical systems similar to those found in VTA light rail vehicles.

OR

Demonstrated experience and training equivalent to a high school diploma and four years of experience in a maintenance environment working on systems similar to those found in a light rail vehicle including air conditioning, DC motors, generators, circuit diagrams, lighting and electrical troubleshooting.

Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license and the ability to qualify for and maintain a Class B license with passenger (P) endorsement and a maintenance LRV operation certification.

Must be available to work weekends, holidays, and odd and unusual hours.

Supplemental Information

Knowledge of:

• AC/DC electrical systems;
• Operating principles of analog and digital electronics, electronic control circuitry and associated mechanical systems;
• Heating, lighting, air conditioning, motors, brakes and related systems;
• Operating and preventive maintenance requirements of electric transit vehicles, machinery, tools, and equipment;
• General shop safety procedures;
• Testing and inspection methods.

• Perform maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, rebuilding, overhauling, and safety/preventive maintenance inspections;
• Analyze malfunctions in electrical/electronic transit equipment and determine repair requirements;
• Perform electronic fabrication and assembly tasks, such as soldering and wire harnessing;
• Make time and material cost estimates and keep accurate records;
• Implement preventive maintenance and safety inspection procedures;
• Use test and shop equipment and tools;
• Use parts and supply manuals;
• Operates a computer for related data input and retrieval;
• Meet established deadlines;
• Give oral and written instructions;
• Effectively read, understand, and use technical information found in repair manuals, service change bulletins, and applicable technical documents, including parts and supply manuals;
• Learn and stay current on all new technologies introduced into the transit industries as it relates to light rail vehicle maintenance;
• Familiarize other Electro-Mechanics and other classifications in the proper method of performing their job;
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of business.

Position Summary

 

Under supervision, performs inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnosis, repair, removal, replacement and testing necessary to maintain all District vehicles, including record keeping and written verification of work accomplished as directed. 

 

Essential Responsibilities

 

• Responsible for major rebuilding, repair and/or removal and replacement of engines, transmissions, clutches, differentials, turbochargers, pumps, motors, injectors, cylinder heads, compressors and hydraulic systems, air brake, air systems, steering, air conditioning, and electrical systems and associated vehicle parts.
• Provides minor and incidental repairs to vehicles in general, including manufacture and/or repair of components to maintain equipment.
• Performs ongoing preventive maintenance, inspections and procedures, as directed, to provide the safest, cleanest, most economical and dependable transportation possible for District utilization.
• Provides normal and reasonable care of all District-owned property and tools provided
• Directly responsible for written communication concerning ongoing status of repairs completed, repairs in progress and outstanding repairs necessary to safely and economically provide vehicles for District transportation needs.
• Participates in general repairs necessary to all mechanical equipment supplementary to vehicle repairs and maintenance as directed.
• Generates and completes work orders in a Computerized Asset Management System (IBM Maximo).
• Assists apprentice mechanics, new employees and current employees in pursuing a high level of production, reliability and safety.
• Adheres to the safety and health rules and safe working practices applicable to his or her job
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with District employees, customers, vendors and all others contacted during the course of work using principles of excellent customer service. 
• Performs additional related duties as assigned 
• Regular and reliable attendance and performance are required

 

Minimum Qualifications

 

Education and/or Experience: 1) Completion of four (4) year apprenticeship program or approved equivalent; OR four years’ full-time experience in the repair of heavy duty diesel engines, air brakes, transmissions, differentials, and D.C. electrical; 2) Experience in the operation of machine tools common to repair shops, such as grinders, drill press, valve facers, lathes, boring bars, presses, etc.

 

Required License:  Must possess and maintain a current, valid California driver's license and satisfactory driving record. No more than two moving violations within the last 3 years. No DUI’s or Reckless Driving violations within the last 7 years. Must be able to obtain a Class A or B license with “P” endorsement within the six-month introductory/probationary period. Operates District vehicles on a regular basis.

 

REQUIRED TOOLS:

• Must have a full set of journey level hand tools to accomplish assigned work.

  

HOURS:

• Shifts are scheduled based on seniority in classification.
• Maintenance Department operates 7 days per week, 24 hours per day.
• Must be available to work all shifts.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Occasionally lift up to 100 lbs. maximum with assistance.  Frequently lift, carry and manipulate up to 50 pounds. Working inside and outside in all weather conditions. Works around fumes, odors and dust in an occasionally high noise level environment with appropriate personal protective equipment.

 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

 

Knowledge of: 

• Common maintenance and repair practices related to heavy duty diesel engine, transmission, steering, electrical, electronic controls, air, hydraulic, brake, fuel and power train systems 
• Common maintenance and repair practices relating to multiplex and programmable logic controller electronic control systems
• District Policies and Labor Agreement (MOU) Provisions
• Occupational health and safety rules and working practices applicable to this position 

 

Skills or Ability to: 

• Use grinders, drill press, diagnostic computers, digital volt/ohm meters, smog testing equipment and other tools and equipment commonly found in a bus/truck fleet shop environment
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, repair and/or replace components common to bus, truck, and automotive equipment fleets
• Read, understand, follow and/or apply oral and written instructions such as complex technical instructions in maintenance manuals, wiring diagrams and schematics, and technical service publications
• Communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing 
• Establish and maintain cooperative and productive working relationships 
• Perform computerized data entry and basic business office technology functions such as use of email, data entry, work order processing and materials requisition