Diesel Apprentice Jobs in Novi, MI (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $58,095.00 - $65,614.00 Annually
Location : Detroit, Michigan, MI
Job Type: Certified-Regular Civil Service
Job Number: 20261723176GSDTO
Department: General Services
Division: Fire Apparatus Garage
Opening Date: 07/29/2026
Closing Date: 8/31/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: 1260-AFSCME NonSupervisory Local 542 Fire
Description
GENERAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE TECHNICIAN - FIRE APPARATUS
Under general supervision, performs automotive and equipment mechanical work at an advanced level on vehicles and equipment including trucks, vehicles, tractors, mowers, backhoes, loaders, graders, etc. Troubleshoots vehicle diagnostics, drivability and electrical system, and installation and removal of emergency lighting and radio equipment. Performs general labor and service work and other similar work assignments.
Examples of Duties

• Performs diagnosis, repair, and/or maintenance of city vehicles, identifies mechanical problems, often by using computerized diagnostic equipment.
• Performs basic care and maintenance, including oil changes, tune-ups, and tire rotations.
• Disassembles and reassembles parts as needed; dismantles and removes defective components.
• Utilizes testing equipment to ensure repairs and maintenance are effective and efficient.
• Repairs, adjusts, alters and services automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, packers, street sweepers, flushers, bulldozers, backhoes, loaders, graders, trenchers, farm tractors, cranes, asphalt pavers, asphalt rollers, small boats, firefighting apparatus, and other special purpose vehicles.
• Utilizes many common hand tools, such as sockets and ratchets, wrenches, and pliers to repair, adjust, alter and service all mechanically, hydraulically, electrically or pneumatically operated auxiliary equipment mounted on or associated with such vehicles including material moving or lift assemblies, loading mechanisms, broom assemblies, snow plows, salt spreaders, aerial platforms, pumps, compressors, and ladder assemblies.
• Performs major and minor repairs to heavy-duty diesel engines, pneumatic suspension systems, heavy-duty automatic transmissions, fuel injectors, buffer screws, mechanical engine governors and other specialized coach components.
• Repairs, services, and maintains air conditioning and heating units, door controls, interior lighting and other mechanically, hydraulically, electrically or pneumatically operated coach systems.
• Utilizes electric arc or acetylene welding outfits and/or machine shop equipment to cut, heat, braze, weld, or fashion equipment parts, brackets, or braces which may be required to complete a repair.
• Performs minor body work to vehicle bodies.
• Keeps simple records of work performed and materials used.
• Instructs and oversees the work of apprentices and other workers assigned as helpers.
• Repairs, adjusts, alters, and services a variety of related mobile or portable equipment and tools such as plows, mowers, harrows, golf ball collectors, rotary brooms, stumpers, chippers, rodding machines, post hole augers, concrete mixers, chain-saws, roto-tillers, compressors, pumps, hoists and generators.
• Performs a variety of repair and service tasks to stationary equipment such as compressors, pumps, hoists, generators and other machinery, where such tasks involve the same type and level of skills employed in repairing and servicing vehicular equipment.
• Operates tow trucks to service, repair, and retrieve disabled vehicles in the field.
• Shifts and drives vehicles on department premises.
• Operates heavy equipment, such as lifts, air tools, lathes, and mill work machines.
• Operates special equipment to mount and dismount tires.

Minimum Qualifications
Qualifications (required):

• High School graduation or G.E.D.
• Education equivalent to completion of two (2) years in a four (4) year trade or vocational high school with courses in general shop and automotive repair.
• Three (3) years of experience in repairing and rebuilding a variety of gasoline and/or diesel fuel powered vehicles or completion of an approved four-year apprenticeship in automotive repair or equivalent.

Qualifications (preferred):

• Graduation from a four year trade or vocational high school with courses in general shop and automotive repair.
• Preferably two (2) years of experience in repairing a variety of construction, maintenance, or other special purpose vehicles.

Licensing and Certifications:

• Employees in this class will be required to provide the tools commonly used in the performance of automotive repair work.
• Valid State of Michigan Operator License. Valid Automotive Service Excellence Certification in one of the following areas: Automotive and Light Truck (A Series - A4 -A7 are required) or Medium Heavy Truck (T Series - T2 and T4-6 are required). Candidates must have at least one certification in the above categories at time of application. Any outstanding certifications must be obtained within six months of hire.
• Persons subsequently hired in this title shall be required to obtain a State of Michigan Driver or Chauffeur License, with Group A Commercial Driver License endorsement and Airbrake qualification. (In addition, P endorsement required for placement in the Department of Transportation.)
• Successful applicants must meet physical standards prescribed by the Michigan State Police Motor Carrier Division and must posses and carry a valid current Medical Examiner's Certificate certifying physical fitness for driving in accordance with State of Michigan Motor Carrier Safety Act-1988.

Equivalency:

• Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Supplemental Information
Evaluation Plan

• Interview: P/F
• Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 100%
• Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100%

Additional points may be awarded for:

• Veteran Points: 0 - 15 points
• Detroit Residency Credit: 15 points

LRD: 01/07/2026
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of gasoline and diesel equipment operation principles and applicable mechanical repair methods.
• Knowledge of methods, materials, and practices and tools used in repairing automotive equipment.
• Knowledge of standard safety practices.
• Knowledge of general automotive repair and maintenance work.
• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic principles as applied to the repair and maintenance of automotive equipment.
• Skill in reading and comprehending shop manuals and diagrams.
• Skill in operating applicable tools and equipment.
• Skill in diagnosing and troubleshooting vehicle malfunctions.
• Skill in observation.
• Skill in performing automotive repairs and maintenance.
• Skill in following written and oral instructions.
• Ability to weld, braze, and cut with electric arc and acetylene torch.
• Ability to interact effectively with supervisors and other departmental personnel.
• Ability to display physical strength and dexterity.
• Ability to display mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to pay great attention to detail.
• Ability to use a personal computer and common office software.

Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the class. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Specific job duties may vary from position to position. The City of Detroit is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other criteria prohibited by City, State, or Federal law.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The City of Detroit offers a competitive and comprehensive employee benefit package. We pride ourselves on the longevity of our employees. Part of the reason for the low turnover rate is the exceptional benefit package listed below. Benefits include, but are not limited to the following:
HEALTH

• Medical - Eligible for hospital, surgical, and prescription drug benefits.
• Dental
• Vision

INSURANCE

• Life Insurance - Optional group insurance available to employee and their family. The City pays 60% of premium for first $12,500 of employee life insurance. Employee may purchase, at own expense, life insurance for spouse and each dependent.
• Long-Term Disability Insurance (Income Protection Plan) - The City offers disability insurance through payroll deductions for persons who become disabled and who are not yet eligible for a service retirement.

PAID TIME OFF

• Sick Leave
• Vacation
• Holidays

OTHER LEAVE BENEFITS
The City also has the following paid and unpaid leaves; funeral leave, Family and Medical Leave, jury duty, military duty leave, unpaid personal leave,
RETIREMENT BENEFITS
City Employees Retirement System
As a regular City employee you automatically become a member of the General Retirement System. This entitles you to a retirement allowance after:
• Completion of thirty (30) years of service;
- At age sixty (60) if you have at least ten (10) years of service, or
- At age sixty-five (65) with eight (8) years of service.
• In the event of disability, other eligibility rules apply);
- An early, actuarially reduced, retirement is offered after you have attained at least twenty-five (25) years of service;
• Employees are vested after ten (10) years of service, regardless of age.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES - Employees have many opportunities for growth and career advancement throughout all City departments and divisions.
Have a successful career with the City of Detroit. Always remember that you are a part of a team with a common Vision of delivering excellent service to the citizens of the City of Detroit
01
Please indicate your highest level of education completed

• High School Diploma/GED
• Education equivalent to completion of two (2) years in a four (4) year trade or vocational high school with courses in general shop and automotive repair.
• Graduation from a four year trade or vocational high school with courses in general shop and automotive repair
• Completion of an approved four-year apprenticeship in automotive repair or equivalent
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree
• PhD/J.D.
• No Education experience

02
How many years of experience in repairing and rebuilding a variety of gasoline and/or diesel fuel powered vehicles?

• Less than 3 years of experience
• 3 to 5 years of experience
• 5 to 10 years of experience
• 10 or more years of experience
• No Experience

03
Describe your experience in repairing and rebuilding a variety of gasoline and/or diesel fuel powered vehicles.
04
How many years of experience in repairing a variety of construction, maintenance, or other special purpose vehicles?

• Less than 2 years of experience
• 2 to 5 years of experience
• 5 to 10 years of experience
• 10 or more years of experience
• No Experience

05
Describe your experience in repairing a variety of construction, maintenance, or other special purpose vehicles.
06
Employees in this class will be required to provide the tools commonly used in the performance of automotive repair work. Do you possess the tools commonly used in the performance of automotive repair work?

• YES
• NO

07
Must posses a valid State of Michigan Operator License. Valid Automotive Service Excellence Certification in one of the following areas: Automotive and Light Truck (A Series - A4 -A7 are required) or Medium Heavy Truck (T Series - T2 and T4-6 are required). Candidates must have at least one certification in the above categories at time of application. Any outstanding certifications must be obtained within six months of hire.Persons subsequently hired in this title shall be required to obtain a State of Michigan Driver or Chauffeur License, with Group A Commercial Driver License endorsement and Airbrake qualification. (In addition, P endorsement required for placement in the Department of Transportation.)Successful applicants must meet physical standards prescribed by the Michigan State Police Motor Carrier Division and must posses and carry a valid current Medical Examiner's Certificate certifying physical fitness for driving in accordance with State of Michigan Motor Carrier Safety Act-1988. Do you possess a valid State of Michigan Operator License?

• YES
• NO

Required Question