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

AUTOMOTIVE MECHANIC (P7-07)
OCCUPATION CODE: 5823-0006
BARGAINING UNIT QUALIFICATION STANDARD
5823b
(5823-0006)
 
AUTOMOTIVE MECHANIC
 
DOCUMENT DATE: October 1, 2002
 
FUNCTION:
 
Troubleshoots, diagnoses, and performs routine repairs and scheduled maintenance on all types of motor vehicles used in the postal fleet.
 
DESCRIPTION OF WORK:
 
See the Standard Position Description for the occupation code given above.
 
REQUIREMENTS:
 
This section is composed of Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) 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, and starter aids.
 
Knowledge of automotive fuel systems refers to the terminology, characteristics, and operation of fuel delivery systems and related assemblies, such as fuel pumps and fuel injectors.
 
Knowledge of engine systems refers to the terminology, characteristics, and operation of engine valve train lubrication, piston assemblies, engine bearings, cylinders, cylinder heads, cylinder blocks, crankshaft assemblies, and cooling systems.
 
Knowledge of automotive suspension systems refers to the terminology, characteristics, and operation of such components as ball joints, shock absorbers, struts, steering column, kingpins, springs, steering linkage, and steering geometry.
 
Knowledge of automotive braking systems refers to the terminology, characteristics, and operation of hydraulically actuated components, such as wheel and master cylinders, proportioning valves, linkages, calipers, cables, and foundation brakes.
 
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, and diagrams.
 
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical 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 engine, power train, fuel delivery, suspension, and braking systems, through the use of appropriate automotive test equipment.
 
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose electrical 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 cranking, charging, ignition, lighting, indicating, and starting motors and their related switches and relays, through the use of appropriate automotive test equipment.
 
Ability to use electrical test equipment refers to the knowledge of, and proficiency with, various types of electrical diagnostic test equipment, such as voltage/amperage testers (VAT), multimeters, and test lights.
 
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 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, suspension, power train, and braking systems.
 
EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS:
 
Applicants must successfully complete Postal Service Tests 943 and 941 to demonstrate their knowledge and ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and make minor repairs to automotive systems
 
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
 
Applicants must be physically able to perform efficiently 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: 5823-0006