Torchora
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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Fleet Engineer

💰 $95,000 - $140,000

EngineeringLogisticsSupply ChainAutomotiveOperationsTransportation

🎯 Role Definition

As a Fleet Engineer, you are the technical backbone of our vehicle operations, responsible for ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of our entire fleet. This multifaceted role blends hands-on engineering with data-driven strategy. You will oversee everything from vehicle acquisition and specification to maintenance program development, performance analysis, and end-of-life disposal. You will act as the key technical advisor, working closely with operations, maintenance technicians, and external vendors to drive continuous improvement, reduce total cost of ownership, and ensure compliance with all regulatory standards. This is a critical position that directly impacts our operational success, safety record, and financial performance.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Mechanical Engineer (Automotive/Heavy Equipment)
  • Senior Maintenance Technician / Supervisor (with a degree)
  • Reliability Engineer

Advancement To:

  • Senior Fleet Engineer / Principal Engineer
  • Fleet Manager / Director of Fleet Operations
  • Asset Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Logistics Engineer
  • Operations Manager
  • Procurement or Sourcing Manager (Vehicle/Equipment)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Develop and manage comprehensive preventive maintenance (PM) programs and inspection schedules to ensure maximum vehicle uptime, reliability, and safety.
  • Analyze maintenance data, failure trends, and vehicle performance metrics to identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction.
  • Lead the technical specification, evaluation, and selection process for new vehicle and equipment acquisitions, ensuring they meet operational needs and lifecycle cost targets.
  • Manage the entire vehicle lifecycle from procurement and commissioning through to decommissioning and disposal, optimizing asset utilization and residual value.
  • Serve as the primary technical expert for complex vehicle diagnostics, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis of recurring mechanical and electrical failures.
  • Oversee the implementation and utilization of fleet management software and telematics systems to monitor driver behavior, fuel efficiency, and asset location.
  • Formulate and execute strategies to optimize fleet fuel consumption through vehicle specification, driver training initiatives, and route analysis.
  • Ensure the fleet remains in strict compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including DOT, EPA, and OSHA standards.
  • Manage relationships with external service providers, third-party maintenance vendors, and OEMs, negotiating contracts and ensuring service level agreements (SLAs) are met.
  • Develop and deliver technical training programs for maintenance technicians and vehicle operators on new equipment, systems, and maintenance procedures.
  • Conduct regular fleet audits and site visits to ensure adherence to standard operating procedures, safety protocols, and quality standards.
  • Lead and manage vehicle modification and upfitting projects, working with vendors to design and install specialized equipment required for business operations.
  • Investigate all vehicle-related accidents and safety incidents to determine root causes and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
  • Create and manage the fleet's operational and capital budgets, tracking expenditures and providing regular financial performance reports.
  • Champion the integration of new technologies, such as electric vehicles (EVs), alternative fuels, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), into the fleet.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis related to vehicle performance, fuel consumption, and maintenance costs.
  • Contribute to the organization's long-term data strategy and technology roadmap, particularly concerning fleet systems and telematics.
  • Collaborate with business units, including Logistics, Finance, and Safety, to translate their needs into actionable fleet engineering requirements.
  • Participate in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and other agile ceremonies within the operations and engineering teams.
  • Author and maintain detailed documentation for vehicle specifications, maintenance procedures, and technical bulletins.
  • Evaluate and pilot emerging technologies and software solutions that could enhance fleet efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Fleet Management Software: Proficiency with systems like Geotab, Samsara, Verizon Connect, or similar enterprise-level fleet software.
  • Vehicle Systems Expertise: In-depth knowledge of diesel and gasoline engines, powertrain, electrical systems, hydraulics, and chassis components.
  • Data Analysis: Strong ability to analyze large datasets using tools like Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP), SQL, and data visualization platforms (Tableau, Power BI).
  • Diagnostic Tools: Experience with OEM diagnostic software (e.g., Cummins Insite, PACCAR Davie), OBD-II scanners, and other diagnostic equipment.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Thorough understanding of DOT, FMCSA, EPA, and CARB regulations.
  • Root Cause Analysis (RCA): Formal training or experience in RCA methodologies to solve complex mechanical failures.
  • Lifecycle Cost Modeling: Ability to perform Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis for vehicle acquisition and replacement planning.
  • CAD Software: Basic proficiency in CAD software (like AutoCAD or SolidWorks) for reviewing vehicle drawings and modification designs is a plus.

Soft Skills

  • Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills to diagnose and resolve complex technical and operational issues.
  • Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively interact with technicians, drivers, management, and vendors.
  • Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, from planning and budgeting to execution and completion.
  • Vendor Management & Negotiation: Skill in managing vendor relationships, negotiating contracts, and ensuring accountability.
  • Leadership & Influence: Ability to influence stakeholders without direct authority and provide clear technical guidance.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to data accuracy, regulatory compliance, and maintenance record-keeping.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in a relevant technical field.

Preferred Education:

  • Master of Science (M.S.) in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
  • Professional certifications such as Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) are highly desirable.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Automotive Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-7 years of direct experience in a fleet maintenance, fleet engineering, or vehicle engineering role.

Preferred:

  • Experience managing a large, diverse fleet of commercial vehicles (Class 1-8 trucks, vans, specialized equipment).
  • Proven track record of successfully implementing preventive maintenance programs and cost-saving initiatives.
  • Hands-on experience with vehicle telematics systems and data interpretation.
  • Experience in a high-volume logistics, transportation, or field service environment.
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