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Electric Vehicle Specialist

Department: Vehicle Maintenance

Status: Full-Time 

Pay Rate: $32.96 / hourly

Schedule: Monday–Friday 2:00pm–10:00pm (Training Schedule: Monday–Friday 8:00am–4:00pm)

Reports to: Foreman 

Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Summary:

The Electric Vehicle Specialist is responsible for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining electrical and electronic systems in diesel, gas, electric, and hybrid-electric vehicles. This includes expertise in AC/DC electrical systems, high-voltage components, battery maintenance, vehicle multiplexing, and HVAC systems. 

This role requires proficiency in reading schematics, using precision instruments, programming AC drives, updating PLC software, and performing computer-based diagnostics.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Other duties may be assigned that are in keeping with the goals and objectives of CARTA.

1. Electronic Systems Diagnostics and Repair:

• Overhaul, diagnose, and repair all electrical and electronic systems on diesel, gas, electric, and hybrid electric-powered vehicles.
• Knowledge of both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) electrical systems for vehicles, commercial, and household power.
• Knowledge of high-voltage systems, including battery, charger, and converter repairs, as well as connecting test equipment to live system circuits.
• Ability to read and interpret wiring schematics and maintenance manual drawings.
• Use precision instruments and gauges to check clearances, currents, and voltages.

Computer & Software Proficiency:

• Use a laptop computer to transfer files via flash drive and update or modify Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) software.
• Program AC drives that operate various motor systems, fans, and pumps.
• Connect a computer to the onboard diagnostics system and launch programs for remote access and programming with manufacturer technical support.
• Disassemble and perform minor repairs on dual motherboard computers and reprogram them using a touchpad display.
• Understand and troubleshoot AC/DC converters and use an oscilloscope to test for excessive noise levels in DC circuits.

Safety & Environmental Awareness:

• Understand potential dangers and safely work in all environments, maintaining awareness of electrical hazards.
• Follow proper procedures when handling high-voltage components and live circuits.

Battery Systems Knowledge:

• Knowledge of various battery types and chemistries used in CARTA’s fleet.
• Perform battery care, troubleshooting, and repairs.

HVAC and Multiplexing Systems:

• Basic knowledge of heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
• Thorough understanding of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and vehicle multiplexing systems such as I/O.

Preferred Knowledge & Additional Skills:

• Familiarity with CAD/AVL equipment, including security electronic repairs (preferred).
• Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.

Qualifications:

Education:

• A minimum of a high school diploma, GED certificate.
• Successful graduation from a trade school for electrical training.

Experience:

• Diagnosing and repairing EV propulsion systems, battery management systems, and high-voltage components.
• Using diagnostic software and scan tools for electrical and electronic issues.
• Handling energy storage systems, including lithium-ion batteries.
• Reading and interpreting electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Minimum three (3) years of experience with heavy-duty vehicle electrical equipment.

Skills and Certification: 

• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) 
• ARC certified/ability to obtain ARC certification; ASE electrical certification preferred.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow technical instructions are essential.

Safety and Workplace Standards:

• Employees will be expected to maintain a clean and safe work area. Safety equipment is available and mandatory to be worn on jobs requiring such.

Physical Requirements:

• Physical ability to lift 50 lbs. and move various equipment, tools, and supplies.

Tools and Equipment:

• A full set of hand tools specific to electrical work is required and must be maintained.

Safety Requirements & Notifications:

The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is a public transit service provider governed by requirements of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Department of Transportation (DOT).  
Due to the nature of some work performed at CARTA some jobs are classified as ‘Safety Sensitive’ and are subject to random testing for drug and alcohol use. All offers for employment are required to undergo pre-employment and possible random drug testing.  If test shows a positive result your application for employment will be rejected, or if hired, employment may be terminated.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed.  This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” employment relationship.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.  

Benefits for Full-Time Employees:

·         Pension Plan

·         Paid Vacation

·         Paid Sick Leave

·         Paid Personal Days

·         Medical Insurance

·         Dental Insurance

·         Vision Insurance

·         Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

·         Health Savings Account (HSA)

·         Employer-Paid Basic Life Insurance

·         Supplemental Life Insurance

·         Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Application Process:

To apply for this vacancy, you must complete the application in full. Applications are considered for 90 days.  The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer -- M/F/D/V.  
It is the responsibility of the applicant to disclose true and accurate information on their account profile and/or resume.  Falsification of this information may lead to your disqualification from vacancy consideration and/or termination of employment.

The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer (protected veterans, disability) and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Employees who require a reasonable accommodation as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) must notify CARTA in advance to allow sufficient time for CARTA to provide the accommodation.

Since 1973
The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is the public transit system in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Our mission is to provide a cost effective, efficient and safe multimodal transit system for the citizens, visitors and businesses of the City of Chattanooga, Hamilton County and the surrounding areas. CARTA has provided safe, dependable and efficient transportation service to our community for over 50 years! Unlike many other public transit systems, CARTA is more than just bus service. In addition to providing traditional fixed route public transportation, the CARTA Care-a-van provides specialized transportation for the disabled. CARTA operates the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, the steepest passenger railway in the world. CARTA initiated the downtown parking system that includes three parking garages with convenient access to our shuttle system, on street metered parking, and parking lots; initiated the Downtown Electric Shuttle system that has one of the largest fleet of electric buses in the United States; and enforces the city of Chattanooga’s parking operations. CARTA carries over three million passengers annually and our funding sources include the city of Chattanooga, state and federal governments, bus fares, revenue from the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, and revenue from the parking operations.