What are the responsibilities and job description for the Transit Auto Body Technician position at King County?
**We are accepting applications from ALL eligible candidates, including those from the general public and current King County Employees.**
King County Metro Transit’s Vehicle Maintenance Division is immediately hiring to fill multiple Transit Auto Body Technician positions! Join our dynamic team of experts...apply now to be included in our convenient one-day hiring events, happening Monday, June 2nd through Wednesday, June 4th!
As an Auto Body Technician for Metro, you will play an essential role in maintaining and repairing our fleet of transit coaches, non-revenue vehicles, automotives, and related equipment. You’ll perform heavy-duty autobody repair, frame straightening, and structural maintenance on vehicles such as buses, trolleys, transit vans, streetcars, trucks, cars, cleaners, and forklifts. Work includes fabricating metal and fiberglass body sections, sheet metal body repair, and operating various metal, glass, and woodworking equipment on a daily basis. This role is vital to keeping our transit system running smoothly and safely, providing reliable transportation to our community. Your expertise in sheet metal fabrication, body and structural repairs, and working with diverse materials will make you an invaluable asset to our team.
If you are collaborative, committed to safe work practices, and passionate about working in a diverse environment, Metro is the place for you. Enjoy excellent benefits, competitive pay, and plenty of opportunities to grow. At Metro, you'll be part of a nationally recognized leader in public transportation. Join us in shaping the future of transit! Let’s move King County forward together.
Learn how Metro connects you with what mattersWho may apply: We are accepting applications from all qualified candidates, including the general public and current King County Employees. Scroll down to the ‘Supplemental Information’ section for details about our hiring event and how to apply.
Qualified military veterans and spouses are highly encouraged to apply! Relevant MOS’s may include: Air Force- 2A711, 2A731, 2A751, 2A771, 2A7X1, 2T315, 2T335, 2T355, 2T3x5 / Army- 15G44B, 91W, 44A, 44B, 91W / Coast Guard- 312 / Marine Corps- 1316, 3513/ Navy- I51A, 001805, AM/ Space Force-2A711, 2A731, 2A751, 2A771, 2A7X1
Pay and Benefits: In addition to an amazing full-range benefits package, King County Metro offers some of the best pay rates in the region. The starting pay for Journey Level Transit Auto Body Technicians is at 90% of the pay scale, and additional shift differentials are paid to those working second and third shifts. The current Journey-Level hourly rates are below:
First shift (“Day shift”)=$49.91 to $55.46
Second shift (“Swing shift”): 5% differential= $52.41to $ 58.23
Third shift (“Graveyard shift”): 7.5% differential= $53.66 to $59.62
Safety-Sensitive Position
This position is considered safety-sensitive. Applicants for positions defined as safety sensitive are required to undergo drug testing prior to employment, and subsequent to commencement of employment, will be subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return to duty and follow-up drug and alcohol testing in compliance with Federal DOT alcohol and controlled substances testing program protocols.
Position and Vacancy Details: This recruitment will be used to fill multiple Transit Auto Body Technician positions within the Vehicle Maintenance division, including 17-month Term-Limited Temporary (TLT) and Special Duty Assignment (SDA) vacancies, which may be eligible for extension. Although these initial vacancies are temporary in duration, they are full-time, benefit-eligible, and may have the opportunity to convert to career service (permanent) positions, when possible. Vehicle Maintenance invests heavily in its staff's development, and SDA/TLT positions give candidates a chance to gain knowledge, skills, and experiences that can be applied to future opportunities. An eligibility list of qualified candidates may be created to fill future Transit Auto Body Technician positions as they become available. If created, the eligibility list would remain active for 12 months from the establishment of the list and utilized at the hiring authority’s discretion.
For more information: If you have any questions about this position, its requirements, or if you would like to have a confidential discussion about the opportunity, you are invited to contact our recruiter: Emily Clark (She/Her), Senior Talent Advisor: emclark@kingcounty.gov or 206-477-8373.
- Perform body repair, frame straightening, and structural maintenance work on damaged transit coaches and equipment, such as buses, trolleys, trucks, cars, cleaners, forklifts, streetcars, line hoisters, and ventilation systems.
- Perform sheet metal body repair on vehicles involving sheet metal layout, template making and fabricating, and repairing both metal and fiberglass body sections.
- Cut, form, weld, rivet, and braze metals to specification when repairing and fabricating body and equipment sections. This involves working in conformance with blueprints, sketches, photographs, specifications, standard shop practices, and written instructions.
- Repair and replace various vehicle parts of non-metal materials, including glass and windows, cloth, wood, plastic, rubber, and fiberglass.
- Make minor repairs to electrical wiring when removing or replacing marker lights, headlights, taillights, and interior lights.
- Repair body sections and parts of damaged transit coaches involving sheet metal and other related structural work.
- Prime sheet metal surfaces and structures to prevent corrosion and contamination as required.
- Perform sheet metal repair work on equipment and facilities such as cyclone cleaners, ventilation systems, garage doors, passenger shelters, and other components and equipment.
- Set up and safely operate metal, glass, and woodworking equipment, such as shears, brakes, rollers, grinders, saws, jacks, punches, folders, drills, sanders, gas/ electric welders, and frame-straightening equipment.
- Assist other repair units in performing repair and mechanical work.
- Maintain records of orders, completed repairs, time worked, and materials used; enter and extract data using an automated vehicle maintenance system; ensure work orders are complete and legible.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Work requires the ability to meet peak and prolonged physical effort on a regular basis. Frequent lifting or carrying of welding and cutting tools weighing up to 50 pounds is required. Occasionally carrying, with assistance, metal, wood, equipment, and other objects weighing up to 100 pounds, is also required. We are looking for candidates who have the following minimum qualifications:
- Demonstrates journey-level (or advanced professional-level) proficiency in safely performing auto body repair, heavy-duty equipment repair, structural maintenance, and sheet metal work-- gained through any combination of work experience, education, or specialized training in relevant techniques, tools, and practices.
- Examples of experience/education combinations include:
- 4 years of hands-on experience performing body/ structural repairs and sheet metal fabrication for automotive and heavy-duty equipment. OR
- Verified completion of a recognized 2-year apprenticeship or community college program for automotive body repair AND 2 years of hands-on experience performing body/ structural repairs and sheet metal fabrication for automotive and heavy-duty equipment.
- Examples of experience/education combinations include:
- Knowledge of current methods, materials, and techniques used for body/structural repairs of automotive and heavy-duty equipment, and related sheet metal fabrication
- Demonstrates knowledge of sheet metal fabrication techniques, and essential layout and bench work skills that include measuring to specifications, drilling, riveting, welding, and assembling to meet exact requirements.
- Demonstrates skill in using the full range of hand tools and equipment used in body and structural repairs and sheet metal fabrication.
- Demonstrates knowledge of industrial safety rules, shop safety rules, applicable regulations, and procedures that apply to working safely in a vehicle repair facility setting. This includes the use of any/all personal protective equipment (PPE) recommended or required for any job-related task.
- Skilled in the use of personal computer office software programs including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and email.
- Ability to effectively communicate and understand instructions, both verbally and in writing.
- Basic mathematic and measuring skills
- Ability to collaborate with others, work effectively as part of a team, and work independently.
- Skill in working with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Experience repairing heavy equipment such as passenger coaches, buses, trailers, utility and tow trucks, or other similar vehicles.
- Experience performing body and structural repair and maintenance on all types of transit coaches, buses, trailers, utility and tow trucks, automotive vehicles, and related heavy-duty equipment.
- Skill in fabricating custom metal work, metal restoration, automotive panel replacement, and windshield replacements
- Documented experience as a certified body shop technician or master collision repair technician.
- For this position, you must supply your own tools for the job, including a 5-drawer (minimum) rolling tool cart. A list of required tools will be provided if invited to interview. You may also contact the recruiter if you would like to review this list prior to applying.
- Must be willing and available to work varying shifts on weekdays, nights, weekends, and holidays as needed. Metro’s Vehicle Maintenance Division operates 24 hours, 365 days per year- so the position being filled may occur on any shift.
- Must be willing to work at any King County Metro worksite as required. Work locations and shifts are “picked” based on seniority.
- Candidates must be willing and able to report to the worksite in inclement weather.
- Commercial Driver’s License Requirements: Within 90 days of hire, a candidate must be able to obtain a Class B Commercial Driver License (CDL) with a passenger endorsement and the air brake restriction removed.
- Candidates without a current CDL will be required to obtain a Class B Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) with a passenger endorsement and air brake restriction removed before receiving a formal offer. After hire, King County Metro Transit will provide you with paid training on our equipment, so you can obtain the required Class B CDL.
- Please Note: to obtain a CLP in Washington State, you must be able to provide your current license, the medical certification obtained through the required physical (DOT Card,) your social security number, and proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residency. For more information visit the official Washington State Department of Licensing official website at: https://www.dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/commercial-driver-licenses-cdl
- Must pass drug and alcohol testing provision for safety-sensitive positions as required by the U.S. Department of Transportation, 49 CFR Parts 40 and 655.
- Must pass a post-offer, pre-employment physical examination.
- A valid Washington State driver's license and acceptable five-year driving record. If you have an out-of-state driver’s license you must obtain a WA state license within 30 days of hire
Work Schedule and Location: Work is performed at the job site, 40-hours per week with two consecutive days off (not necessarily Saturday and Sunday). Work schedules and locations are based on a seniority “pick” system. This position is not exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act, and is therefore eligible for overtime hours. Employees must be able and willing to work any shift, including any combination of days off, at any location.
How to apply: If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application process, or if you have questions: please contact Emily Clark (She/Her), Senior Talent Advisor: emclark@kingcounty.gov or 206-877-8373.
The following application materials are required:
Submit an online employment application at KingCounty.gov/jobs or Governmentjobs.com. Ensure your application includes:
Detailed work history going back at least 10 years, if you have that amount of experience
Accurate dates of employment and clearly explained reasons for leaving each position
Clear and detailed job duties listed for each job that describes what tasks you performed, and how you completed them
Responses to all required supplemental questions in the application
No additional attachments or documents will be considered.
Note: As a public employer, King County adheres to strict guidelines when reviewing applications. When listing the job duties within your Work Experience section, describe how you specifically meet the job experience and qualifications needed. List all important information and transferable skills, abilities, knowledge, and experience for the review team to consider, and leave out the non-transferable duties. The experience, skills, and abilities you mention in your answers to supplemental questions should match the job duties and work experience you list within your application, and should follow the outlined application instructions.
King County’s Workforce Development page offers free guidance, resources, and checklists to help candidates present their skills and experience competitively for King County recruitments. We highly encourage you to visit the General Career Resources section on their website for more information and resources: King County Workforce Development. Applicants who are unable to apply online should follow the instructions at Application FAQ’s- King County. For technical support related to your application, contact the GovernmentJobs' applicant support team for assistance during regular business hours: 1 855-524-5627.
Selection process: Applications will be reviewed to determine if the candidate meets the qualifications and requirements posted within this job announcement. The most competitive candidates presenting evidence that they meet or exceed the qualifications noted above will be invited to participate in the “One-Stop” hiring event on one of the dates listed below:
**ONE-STOP HIRING EVENT**: Tentatively scheduled for June 2nd through June 4th, in-person in Tukwila, WA
TESTING: Candidates must pass a 2.5-hour hands-on skills test intended to gauge their ability to follow directions and showcase their abilities. Outlined below are some of the competencies that will be assessed. It is recommended that you refresh your knowledge and skills in these specified areas:
Welding and fabrication
Metal straightening and body filler
Fiberglass and composite repair
Layout and riveting
Frame alignment and straightening using pull equipment
Correct use of safety techniques and tools for areas above
**Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Please be prepared to bring a respirator that complies with all OSHA regulations related to performing Auto Body Repair work. If you are invited to test and do not have an appropriate respirator, one will be provided for you to use. Welding helmets, gloves, coveralls, and ear/eye protection will be provided for testing, but feel free to bring your own PPE if you are more comfortable using your own. All necessary tools and safety equipment will be provided, and you will have the ability to ask clarifying questions prior to beginning each testing station.
INTERVIEWS: After a brief break, candidates with satisfactory test scores will be asked to participate in a 30-minute panel interview. You will be allowed to preview a printed copy of the interview questions for 15 minutes prior to your interview, and any notes you make on the preview document may be used as a point of reference for yourself when interviewing
CONTINGENT OFFERS: The human resources team will be on-site to offer contingent offers to candidates who pass the interview. Passing candidates who are not selected for initial placement will remain on the eligibility list for future openings, ranked by performance. Candidates who accept a contingent offer of employment must meet all pre-employment screening requirements for King County safety-sensitive positions. These requirements include items such as:
Passing a pre-employment physical for the Sheet Metal Worker classification,
Verification of a valid Commercial Driver’s License or Commercial Learner's Permit
Passing a driving abstract review with an acceptable five-year driving record.
Completing satisfactory reference checks from your previous employers (and/or a King County Work Record Review if you already work at King County)
Passing a drug/alcohol screen and two-year FTA background verification
**SAME DAY** DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING: Candidates who accept our contingent offer will be asked to complete their Drug and Alcohol screening the same day, at the testing location. Most other pre-hire requirements can be completed online and in-person at the hiring event, but additional time away from your current employment will be required to complete a job-specific physical at one of our partner provider clinic locations (Concentra clinics), and to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, as necessary.
Final offers will be extended once the pre-employment screening steps have been successfully completed by the candidate. Our goal is to have new hires start on July 21, 2025, but this start date is determined by how quickly the candidate completes the requirements listed above. Candidates hired from an eligibility list at a later date will have their pre-employment process begin at that time.
Union Representation: This position is represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 587
Classification Code: 8445100 Transit Sheet Metal Worker
About King County and Metro Transit Vehicle Maintenance - #TradesJobs
As a mobility agency, we move hundreds of thousands of people in our region each day, helping connect them to greater opportunities such as new jobs, better education, critical medical appointments, or a chance to start over. Metro Transit's Vehicle Maintenance Division operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and we take pride in meeting our customers' expectations by providing safe, dependable, clean, and environmentally sound vehicles.
Metro has long been an innovator in green vehicle technology and is steadily pursuing our goal of becoming a zero-emission fleet by transitioning to battery-electric buses. Our Vehicle Maintenance Division values teamwork, communication, diversity, and social justice, and we are committed to working in a timely, cost-effective, and environmentally sensitive manner.
Forbes named King County one of Washington State's best employers.
Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.
Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion, and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention are how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles- we are one team; we lead the way; and are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native Americans, people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQIA , people living with disabilities, and veterans.
King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay, or other forms of compensation.
For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact:
Emily Clark (she/her), Senior Talent Advisor: EmClark@kingcounty.gov
Salary : $80,746 - $115,357
