About Us : Ararat Rural City Council is located 2 hours northwest of Melbourne and is a growing regional centre, a trend which is predicted to continue as more people pursue a tree-change lifestyle with all essential services at their fingertips. We recognise that our employees are the key to making a difference and delivering our vision for a vibrant and sustainable community. Council is committed to serving our community in a friendly and professional way and offers fantastic employee conditions including a 9-day fortnight, flexible working options, a health and wellbeing program, professional development opportunities, and much more. We are an equal-opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion, allowing our staff to thrive and grow. About You : Relevant Trade Certificate (Motor, plant, or Heavy Vehicle Mechanic). Previous experience in mechanical repair of heavy plant, trucks, and equipment. Class HR driver licence. OHS Construction Induction Card. Knowledge of standards and regulations associated with the mechanical workshop, plant, and fleet. Knowledge and understanding of safe working practices, particularly in a workshop environment. Experience in reading schematics and diagnosing faults. The following are desirable: Other relevant certificates – i.e., forklift. Welding skills. Experience in roadside breakdown repairs. Position Summary : The mechanic is responsible for the repair, maintenance, and servicing of Council's fleet of major plant, heavy vehicles, operational equipment, and light passenger vehicles. The role provides critical support across the organisation by maximising the operational efficiency of Council's fleet of vehicles and operational equipment. This is achieved by applying a well-developed level of skill in diagnosing and solving mechanical problems and by ensuring the workshop achieves its key service delivery outcomes. The position provides a critical support function in the implementation of scheduled maintenance programs that deliver outcomes that ensure compliance with applicable legislation. Key Requirements : Accountability & Extent of Authority Accountable for the quality, quantity and timeliness of work skills and knowledge for the care of plant, equipment, and assets used in the daily operations. Exercise discretion within standard practice. May use high precision trade skills and provide direction and leadership to others. Train operators in the general daily maintenance of Council plant and equipment. Judgement & Decision Making Ability to apply established practices and procedures. Freedom to plan their work at least one week in advance. Personal judgement is exercised in undertaking the specialised work of the position by selection of a range of tools, equipment, methods, and processes to complete tasks. Although the objective of the role is well-defined, problem solving may be required. Problems may be complex in nature, but guidance and advice would always be available. Specialist Knowledge & Skills Knowledge of components and operation of individual items including a range of engines, transmissions, differential, air-conditioning, hydraulic, and electrical systems. Thorough understanding of the technology in maintaining plant and equipment procedures and processes. Safe and competent operation of heavy mechanical plant. Ability and skills to provide training to other council employees through on-the-job training. Ability to operate computerised stock inventory, fleet management, and asset management systems. Problem solving ability. Knowledge of plant and equipment manuals, practices, systems, fluid, power, lubricants, and their use. Ability to dismantle, inspect, repair, and replace mechanical vehicle systems. Ability to operate welders, air and electrical hand tools, lathes, grinders, and diagnostic equipment. Ability to design and modify parts. Understanding of diesel and petrol mechanical systems and their components. Management Skills Developed skills in managing time, setting priorities, planning and organising work at least a week in advance. Basic knowledge of personnel practices and the ability to provide on-the-job training and guidance. Interpersonal Skills Ability to communicate and gain cooperation from other staff, contractors, and suppliers. Ability to provide good customer service to both internal and external customers, responding courteously and efficiently to customer requests. Ability to work in a team environment. Ability to contribute to workplace improvements and team discussions. Job Responsibility : Carry out plant and equipment repair and maintenance. Ensure compliance with preventative maintenance schedules of plant and vehicles in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. Maintain workshop records of daily conducted maintenance and servicing. Communicate with operators to determine and diagnose plant/vehicle problems to determine maintenance and/or repairs. To comply with the requirements of VicRoads in respect of roadworthiness issues. Commission and decommission plant and equipment as required. Provide leadership and direction to apprentices as required. Provide timely advice and information with supervisors of the waste management team in relation to all mechanical matters faced by the waste team as required. Liaise with relevant repairers to schedule mechanical works as required. Inspect works carried out by mechanical contractors to ensure quality workmanship has been conducted. Undertake fabrication and welding of a wide range of items. Identify and report hazards and participate in risk assessments. Participate in toolbox talks and site inductions. Work as part of a team. Ensure the safe handling, storage, and appropriateness of chemicals. Ensure the safe and correct handling and use of all equipment. Demonstrate a strong customer focus which is accurate, responsive, timely, and courteous. Ensure compliance with Council's Risk Management Policy, Risk Management Framework and OH&S Policy. Observe all policies and procedures of Council. Any other duties as required within the scope of the position. Job Functions : Local Job Benefits : Fulltime ongoing role. Dynamic and flexible team. 9-day fortnight. Uniform provided. Selling Point : Be part of a small team with big plans. Contact : Paula Davidson
