Qualification Standards
Position Description
List of Positions U.S.Postal Service

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN (P7-08)
OCCUPATION CODE: 5823-0001
BARGAINING UNIT QUALIFICATION STANDARD
5823c
(5823-0001)
 
AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN
 
DOCUMENT DATE: March 1, 2005
 
FUNCTION:
 
Performs routine and complex repairs and maintenance on all types of motor vehicles used in the postal fleet; troubleshoots and diagnoses more complex vehicle malfunctions using a variety of computerized test equipment; may provide assistance to lower level employees.
 
DESCRIPTION OF WORK:
 
See the Standard Position Descriptions for the Occupation Codes given above. REQUIREMENTS:
 
This section is composed of the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities which are required to satisfactorily perform the tasks of the position. Knowledge of electrical/ignition systems refers to the terminology characteristics, and operation of such components as alternators, batteries, voltage regulators, starter motors, ignition and lighting systems, indicating devices, electronic computer enhanced components, sensors, and starting aids.
 
Knowledge of automotive fuel systems refers to the terminology, characteristics, and operation of fuel delivery systems, and related assemblies, such as fuel pumps, turbochargers, superchargers, inter- coolers, fuel injectors, and the interface of the fuel system with electronic controls.
 
Knowledge of automotive emission control systems refers to the terminology characteristics, and operation of emission control systems as they relate to overall engine operation and performance specifications and conformance to environmental quality regulations.
 
Knowledge of engine systems refers to the terminology, characteristics, and operation of engine valves, piston assemblies, engine bearings, cylinders, cylinder heads, cylinder blocks, crankshaft assemblies, compression ignition, and cooling system.
 
Knowledge of automotive power train systems refers to the terminology, characteristics, and operation of such components as clutches, universal joints, manual and computer enhanced automatic transmission systems, differentials, and drive axles.
 
Knowledge of automotive suspension systems refers to the terminology, characteristics, and operation of standard and computerized/air- controlled suspension, and standard and power assisted steering, as well as wheel alignment systems and steering geometry.
 
Knowledge of automotive braking systems refers to the terminology, characteristics, and operation of air and hydraulically actuated braking components such as cylinders, valves, linkage, calipers, sensors and control modules and anti-lock brake systems.
 
Ability to use technical reference materials and technical manuals refers to reading, comprehending, and interpreting technical information, such as illustrated parts breakdown, checklists, flow charts, electronic media, and schematics.
 
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose malfunctions in automotive components or systems refers to a proficiency in observing, testing, analyzing, and isolating sources of trouble in automotive systems or their components, such as electrical/electronic systems, engine, power train, fuel delivery, and suspension and braking systems through the use of appropriate automotive test equipment.
 
Ability to use automotive test equipment refers to the knowledge of, and proficiency with, various types of electrical/electronic diagnostic test equipment, such as voltage/amperage testers (VAT), multimeters (VOM), test lights, scanners, gas analyzers, etc.
 
Ability to use mechanical test equipment and hand tools refers to the knowledge of, and proficiency with, various types of mechanical diagnostic test equipment and hand tools, such as micrometers, calipers, pressure gauges, etc.
 
Ability to make minor repairs to automotive components or systems refers to a proficiency in replacing parts or making adjustments to automotive systems or their components, such as electrical/ignition, emissions, fuel delivery, engine, suspensions, power train, braking systems, intake, exhaust, and starting aids.
 
Ability to make major repairs to automotive components or systems refers to a proficiency in overhauling or rebuilding automotive systems or their components, such as power train, engine, fuel delivery, suspension, and braking systems. EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS:
 
Applicants must successfully complete Postal Service Test 943, Test 944, and Test 941 to demonstrate their knowledge and ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and make minor and major repairs to automotive systems. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
 
Applicants must be physically able to efficiently perform the duties of the position. TRAINING REQUIREMENTS:
 
Applicants who qualify under this standard may be required to satisfactorily complete a prescribed training course(s) prior to reassignment or promotion. ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS:
 
At the time of appointment, applicants must have a valid driver's license from the state in which they live. Applicants must also demonstrate and maintain a safe driving record. Applicants selected under this qualification standard must successfully complete the required Vehicle Familiarization and Safe Operation training, including demonstration of the ability to safely drive a vehicle of the type used on the job.

Doc Date: 06/01/2005   Occ Code: 5823-0001