Manager, Technical Services

Basic Function

Manages the Technical Services department and is responsible for keeping METRO abreast of the latest vehicle technologies, maintenance procedures and associated regulations. Prepares specifications for, and oversees procurement of vehicles, components, materials, fuel and services. Supports Bus Maintenance function with technical information necessary to maximize operating efficiency and effectiveness.  Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Provides primary managerial direction and performs personnel administrative functions of direct report staff (e.g., training, supervising, work assignments, timesheets, performance evaluations, etc.) for maintaining necessary staffing, enhancing productivity of staff, and ensuring necessary department outcomes are achieved.
• Responsible for keeping METRO abreast of the latest developments in vehicle technology, vehicle related regulations, transit technology, training methods and vehicle repair procedures with a focus on Zero Emissions.
• Serves as project manager for revenue vehicle procurements.  Develops vehicle specifications and oversees procurement process to ensure METRO’s operating needs, goals and planned service implementations are efficiently and effectively addressed.
• Prepares technical specifications and qualification standards for vehicle components and operating systems, materials and supplies, fuel and lubricants, and maintenance related service contracts.  Oversees the development of specifications that provide for METRO’s compliance with all applicable regulations.
• Oversees the evaluation and acceptability determination of vendor requests for approved equals.  Oversees negotiations, monitoring and resolution of contractor adherence to contract terms, schedules and quality expectations.
• Develops preventive maintenance guides and repair procedures for revenue and support vehicles.  Identifies training needs and works with Bus Maintenance Training personnel to develop effective training curriculum.  Oversees development and administration of service bulletins and technical information libraries.
• Performs period specific and life-cycle cost analysis as necessary to properly evaluate procurement options and vehicle operation/maintenance activities.
• Responsible for new vehicle acceptance make ready and fleet implementations.  Monitors warranty and maintenance tracking systems to identify and resolve systemic issues among vehicle model types.
• Supports long-term fleet planning and asset management functions as well as state of good repair initiatives.
• Responds to request for vehicle related technical information from internal and external customers.  Makes vehicle technology related presentations.  Represents METRO in trade associations, peer groups and in meetings with contractors.
• Establishes and implements controls to ensure compliance with department and agency goals, budget quality standards, performance standards and legal requirements.
• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Applies SMS (Safety Management System) methods and principles in daily routine and supports all aspects of the agency’s Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned. 
   

Education Requirement

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related degree is preferred.

Years & Experience Required

Minimum eight (8) years progressively responsible experience in heavy-duty fleet maintenance.  Experience in development of transit vehicle specifications with a focus on zero emissions and vehicle procurement processes.  Experience to include two (2) years supervisory/management experience.  Experience in a transit related field or union environment is preferred.

Knowledge & Skills Required

Thorough knowledge of vehicle design, operating theory, assembly processes and maintenance management.  Ability to effectively identify, research and resolve issues of varying complexity.  Good decision making and organizational skills.  Strong interpersonal and communication (written/verbal) skills.  Knowledge of labor agreement and related procedures.  General knowledge of PC’s and related software.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

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