Electric Vehicle Mechanic
💰 $65,000 - $110,000
🎯 Role Definition
Are you a talented automotive technician ready to electrify your career? We are searching for a dedicated Electric Vehicle (EV) Mechanic to become an integral part of our dynamic service center. In this pivotal role, you will be the hands-on expert for our customers' vehicles, performing everything from routine maintenance to complex high-voltage system diagnostics and repairs. You will leverage state-of-the-art tools and technology to ensure every vehicle meets the highest standards of safety, reliability, and performance. This position is perfect for a problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is excited to work at the forefront of sustainable transportation.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Automotive Technician or Dealership Mechanic
- Graduate of an Automotive Technology or Vocation Program
- Aviation or Industrial Electrical Technician
Advancement To:
- Senior or Master EV Technician
- Service Center Manager or Team Lead
- Field Technical Specialist / Engineer Support
Lateral Moves:
- Mobile Service Technician
- Technical Trainer or Curriculum Developer
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Perform comprehensive diagnostics and repairs on all electric vehicle systems, including high-voltage batteries, drive units, and inverters, using proprietary software and specialized equipment.
- Execute complex work on high-voltage systems, including battery pack removal, replacement, and resealing, while strictly adhering to all safety protocols.
- Diagnose and repair issues within the vehicle's low-voltage electrical systems, including wiring harnesses, controllers, and infotainment/display units.
- Service and repair Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), including sensor calibration for features like Autopilot, adaptive cruise control, and parking assist.
- Conduct intricate mechanical repairs on EV-specific components and traditional automotive systems such as suspension, steering, and braking (including brake-by-wire and regenerative braking systems).
- Perform precision wheel alignments, tire mounting, and balancing on vehicles with unique weight distribution and performance characteristics.
- Address issues within the vehicle's thermal management system, including battery coolant loops, pumps, and cabin HVAC systems which often utilize heat pump technology.
- Execute vehicle software updates, firmware flashes, and system configuration to resolve performance issues and enable new features.
- Conduct thorough Pre-Delivery Inspections (PDI) on new vehicles to ensure they meet quality standards before customer handover.
- Perform quality control checks and dynamic vehicle testing (road tests) to validate that all repairs have resolved the customer's complaint and the vehicle operates to specification.
- Meticulously document all diagnostics, repairs performed, parts used, and labor time in our digital service management system.
- Operate and maintain a wide variety of hand tools, power tools, shop equipment, and specialized EV diagnostic tools.
- Interact with and support Mobile Service Technicians by providing remote diagnostic assistance and preparing parts for off-site repairs.
- Decommission and handle end-of-life high-voltage batteries according to strict environmental and safety regulations.
- Perform body and trim adjustments, including panel alignments, water leak diagnosis, and the repair of squeaks and rattles.
- Keep abreast of all new vehicle models, repair procedures, and technical service bulletins released by the manufacturer.
Secondary Functions
- Provide clear and concise feedback to engineering and quality teams to help identify and resolve recurring vehicle issues at the production level.
- Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and safe service bay environment in compliance with all company and regulatory standards.
- Mentor and provide guidance to junior technicians or apprentices, sharing knowledge about complex EV systems and repair techniques.
- Communicate technical findings in an understandable way to Service Advisors and, at times, directly to customers to ensure transparency and build trust.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- High-Voltage Systems Expertise: Deep understanding of and proven ability to safely diagnose and repair high-voltage DC battery and powertrain systems.
- EV Diagnostic Software: Proficiency with OEM-specific diagnostic software (e.g., Tesla Toolbox, Rivian's internal suite) and tools for reading fault codes, running diagnostics, and updating firmware.
- CAN Bus Diagnostics: Ability to diagnose communication issues between vehicle modules using CAN bus analysis tools.
- Automotive Electrical Schematics: Strong aptitude for reading, interpreting, and applying complex electrical wiring diagrams and technical documentation.
- ADAS Calibration: Experience with the equipment and procedures required to calibrate cameras, radar, and other sensors for driver-assistance systems.
- Brake and Suspension Systems: Solid foundation in traditional mechanical skills, including servicing multi-piston calipers, air suspension, and multi-link steering systems.
- HVAC Service: Knowledge of A/C and heating systems, including experience with heat pumps and thermal management loops common in EVs.
- Precision Measurement Tools: Competency using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and other precision electronic and mechanical measurement tools.
Soft Skills
- Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Exceptional ability to logically and systematically troubleshoot complex, often undocumented, technical issues.
- Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to repairs, documentation, and safety procedures to ensure the highest quality of work.
- Adaptability: Thrives in a fast-paced environment where technology, vehicles, and repair procedures are constantly evolving.
- Strong Communication: Ability to clearly explain technical issues to non-technical colleagues and customers.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: A positive, team-player attitude with a willingness to assist and learn from others.
- Time Management: Capable of managing and prioritizing multiple repair orders efficiently to meet deadlines without compromising quality.
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Relevant automotive certifications (e.g., ASE A1-A9).
- Valid Driver's License and a clean driving record.
Preferred Education:
- Associate's Degree in Automotive Technology or a related field.
- Manufacturer-specific EV training certifications (e.g., Tesla, Rivian, Lucid, Ford).
- High-voltage systems safety certification.
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Automotive Technology
- Mechatronics
- Electrical Engineering Technology
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range: 3-7 years of professional experience as an automotive technician.
Preferred: At least 2 years of documented, hands-on experience working directly on electric vehicles in a professional setting. Experience as a Master Technician or Diagnostic Specialist at a reputable dealership or independent shop is highly valued.