Fleet Mechanic Career: A Day in the Life
A career as a fleet mechanic can be both challenging and rewarding. Fleet mechanics are responsible for maintaining and repairing various vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, and heavy equipment. They play a vital role in ensuring that these vehicles are safe and reliable. They are also instrumental in keeping vehicles on the road and running smoothly.
The position of a fleet mechanic requires a combination of technical skills, problem-solving ability, and attention to detail. It’s a job that requires both physical and mental effort and that offers the opportunity to work with different types of vehicles.
If you’ve got all these skills, a career as a fleet mechanic may just be perfect for you. In this blog, we’ll look at what a typical day in the life of a fleet mechanic is like.
Duties of a Fleet Mechanic After Automotive School
A fleet mechanic’s day typically begins early in the morning with a quick check of the work schedule to see what needs to be done that day. They may have a list of vehicles that need maintenance or repair, or they may be assigned to work on a specific vehicle that has been brought in for service. The mechanic will then begin by performing a thorough inspection of the vehicle, looking for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or other problems. They will also check for any warning lights or other indicators that might indicate a problem.
Once the inspection is complete, the mechanic will begin working on the vehicle. This may involve changing oil and filters, replacing worn parts, or performing more complex repairs. Depending on the type of vehicle and the extent of the repairs, the mechanic may need to use specialized tools and equipment, such as hydraulic jacks, pneumatic lifts, or other tools they were introduced to in automotive school. They may also need to consult technical manuals or other resources to troubleshoot problems or determine the best course of action.
As the day progresses, the fleet mechanic may be called upon to work on different types of vehicles, each with its own challenges. Some days may be spent working on heavy equipment, such as bulldozers or excavators, while others may be spent working on cars or trucks. No two days are ever the same, which keeps the job exciting and varied.
Fleet Mechanics Utiliza Their Communication Skills Often
In addition to their technical skills, fleet mechanics need also to have excellent communication skills, as their job requires them to regularly consult with vehicle owners and other workers in the body shop. Throughout the day, the fleet mechanic will communicate with the vehicle’s driver or owner to keep them informed of the progress of the repairs. They will also communicate with other mechanics in the shop, as well as with parts suppliers, to ensure that they have the necessary parts and tools to complete the job.
Record Keeping As a Fleet Mechanic
Documentation is an essential aspect of dispatch training and is among the critical duties of fleet mechanics. In addition to working on vehicles, fleet mechanics also spend a lot of time keeping records and documenting their work. This may involve writing up detailed repair orders, tracking parts and inventory, and completing paperwork required by the employer or government regulations.
At the end of the day, the fleet mechanic will clean up the shop, put away tools and equipment, and check their schedule for the next day. They will then clock out and head home, knowing that they have done their part to keep vehicles on the road and running smoothly.
Interested in pursuing a fleet mechanic career?
Contact CATI for more information.