Job Specification - Taxi Technician | Automotive Fleet Maintenance & Repair

🎯 Role Definition

A Taxi Technician is a specialized automotive service professional who serves as the backbone of a city's transportation network. This role is dedicated to ensuring the safety, reliability, and operational readiness of a fleet of taxi vehicles. Unlike a general mechanic, a Taxi Technician possesses a unique expertise in the high-mileage demands and specialized equipment of commercial passenger vehicles. From advanced engine diagnostics and preventative maintenance to installing and servicing meters and communication systems, the Taxi Technician works in a fast-paced environment where minimizing vehicle downtime is critical. This position requires a blend of deep technical skill, diagnostic prowess, and a commitment to the highest standards of safety and quality.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Automotive Technician Apprentice
Lube & Tire Technician
General Automotive Mechanic

Advancement To:

Lead Technician / Senior Taxi Technician
Shop Foreman / Service Manager
Fleet Maintenance Manager

Lateral Moves:

Bus or Coach Mechanic
Law Enforcement Vehicle Technician
Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform comprehensive diagnostic tests on taxi vehicles using modern scan tools and software to accurately identify mechanical, electrical, and electronic system failures.
Conduct regularly scheduled preventative maintenance, including multi-point inspections, oil and filter changes, fluid level checks, and tire rotations, to maximize vehicle longevity and uptime.
Diagnose and repair complex engine performance issues, including problems with fuel injection systems, ignition timing, emissions controls, and onboard computer systems.
Service, repair, and overhaul vehicle braking systems, including ABS controllers, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, brake pads, and rotors to ensure paramount passenger safety.
Troubleshoot and resolve intricate issues within vehicle electrical systems, such as faulty wiring harnesses, charging and starting systems, interior/exterior lighting, and battery drains.
Install, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain specialized taxi equipment, including digital taximeters, GPS dispatch units, credit card processing terminals, and in-vehicle security cameras.
Perform complete service and repair of vehicle heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, including refrigerant recovery and recharge, to ensure passenger comfort in all weather conditions.
Address and repair steering and suspension components, such as shocks, struts, ball joints, control arms, and power steering systems, to guarantee a safe and comfortable ride.
Execute precision wheel alignments and perform tire mounting and balancing to prevent premature tire wear and ensure vehicle stability.
Utilize advanced diagnostic software to interpret fault codes, review live data streams, and perform guided tests for efficient and accurate troubleshooting.
Maintain meticulous and up-to-date digital records of all maintenance and repair activities for each vehicle in the fleet's Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
Conduct thorough safety and regulatory inspections as mandated by local transportation authorities to ensure every vehicle is fully compliant and road-worthy.
Respond promptly to unexpected vehicle breakdowns and perform necessary field or in-shop repairs to minimize service disruptions and vehicle downtime.
Test drive vehicles both before and after repair interventions to verify that all reported issues have been successfully resolved and the vehicle operates to specification.
Communicate clearly and professionally with fleet managers, dispatchers, and drivers regarding vehicle status, necessary repairs, and estimated completion times.
Manage and source parts for repairs, interface with suppliers, and ensure the correct components are ordered and available to complete jobs efficiently.
Uphold a clean, organized, and safe work environment by strictly adhering to all shop safety protocols, including the proper use of tools and personal protective equipment.
Stay current with emerging automotive technologies, repair methodologies, and updates to the specific vehicle models within the fleet through continuous learning and training.
Repair or replace vehicle interior and body components that experience heavy wear and tear in taxi service, such as door hardware, seating, and passenger partitions.
Investigate and systematically resolve driver-reported vehicle complaints and performance issues, documenting the diagnostic process and the final solution.

Secondary Functions

Mentor and provide on-the-job guidance to junior technicians and apprentices, fostering a culture of skill development and teamwork.
Assist the shop foreman or fleet manager with daily workflow planning, job prioritization, and bay scheduling to optimize shop efficiency.
Contribute to the evaluation and recommendation of new diagnostic tools, shop equipment, and maintenance software.
Participate actively in team meetings to discuss recurring vehicle issues, process improvements, and overall fleet health.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

High proficiency with advanced automotive diagnostic scan tools (e.g., Autel, Snap-on, Bosch) and their associated software.
Expert-level knowledge of vehicle electrical and electronic systems, including the ability to read and interpret complex wiring diagrams.
In-depth understanding of modern gasoline, diesel, and hybrid powertrain systems.
Strong competency in diagnosing and repairing hydraulic systems, particularly brakes (including ABS) and power steering.
Proven ability to service and repair vehicle HVAC systems, including possession of a Section 609 certification for refrigerant handling.
Skill in performing four-wheel alignments, tire mounting, and high-speed balancing.
Familiarity with the installation, servicing, and troubleshooting of taximeters, dispatch radios, and onboard telematics/camera systems.
Ability to read, understand, and apply information from technical service bulletins (TSBs) and manufacturer repair manuals.
Experience using a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to document work orders, track labor, and manage parts.
Competence in basic welding and metal fabrication for minor structural and body repairs.

Soft Skills

Exceptional diagnostic and analytical problem-solving skills.
Superior time management and the ability to effectively prioritize tasks in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
Clear and concise communication skills for interacting with managers, drivers, and team members.
A meticulous attention to detail and a strong personal commitment to delivering high-quality, safe repair work.
Self-motivation and the ability to work independently with minimal direct supervision.
A collaborative, team-first attitude and willingness to share knowledge.
Adaptability and a readiness to learn and master new vehicle technologies and repair procedures.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Associate's Degree or a technical certificate in Automotive Technology from an accredited vocational school or community college.
ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Automotive Technology
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

2-5 years of hands-on, professional experience as an automotive technician or mechanic.

Preferred:

Prior experience working in a fleet maintenance environment is highly advantageous (e.g., taxi, rental car, law enforcement, or delivery services).
A strong portfolio of ASE certifications (especially A1-A8) is highly desirable and often a key differentiator.
Direct experience with the specific vehicle makes and models that are common in taxi fleets (e.g., Toyota Camry/Prius, Ford Transit Connect, Dodge Caravan).