Electric Vehicle Specialist

CARTA, or the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority, is a key public transportation provider in Chattanooga, Tennessee, dedicated to offering efficient, reliable, and sustainable transit services to the community. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and environmental stewardship, CARTA operates a modern fleet that includes diesel, gas, electric, and hybrid-electric vehicles. The organization emphasizes inclusivity and diversity within its workforce, ensuring a positive and supportive workplace culture for all employees. As an established transportation authority, CARTA is at the forefront of integrating new technologies in public transit to reduce environmental impact while maintaining high standards of service and safety for the community it serves.

The position of Electric Vehicle Specialist at CARTA offers a unique opportunity to be part of a progressive team focused on the maintenance and advancement of cutting-edge vehicle technologies. This full-time role, based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, provides a competitive hourly pay rate of $32.96 and features a Monday through Friday work schedule with evening hours from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The initial training schedule is from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, helping new hires gain the necessary skills and familiarity with CARTA's systems and vehicles. Reporting directly to the Foreman, the Electric Vehicle Specialist will play a crucial role in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining the electrical and electronic systems across a diverse fleet that includes diesel, gas, electric, and hybrid-electric vehicles.

This role requires in-depth knowledge and hands-on expertise in a variety of electrical systems, including both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) for vehicles, commercial applications, and household power. Specialists will work with high-voltage systems — including batteries, chargers, and converters — and must be adept at connecting test equipment to live system circuits safely. The Electric Vehicle Specialist will utilize precision instruments and gauges to measure electrical parameters accurately and interpret wiring schematics and maintenance manuals for effective diagnostics and repair.

Proficiency with computer-based tools and software is essential, as the role involves using laptops and other devices to update Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), program AC drives, and perform vehicle diagnostics with manufacturer support. Duties also include minor repairs of onboard computer motherboards and troubleshooting complex electronic systems using oscilloscopes and other diagnostic instruments.

Safety is a paramount concern at CARTA, and the Electric Vehicle Specialist must demonstrate a strong awareness of workplace hazards, especially when working with high-voltage electrical components and live circuits. The role demands adherence to strict safety protocols to protect both personnel and equipment.

In addition to electrical diagnostics and repairs, the Electric Vehicle Specialist will maintain expertise in battery care and troubleshooting for a variety of battery chemistries used within CARTA's fleet. A basic understanding of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, as well as vehicle multiplexing and PLC systems, is expected. Bonus skills include familiarity with CAD/AVL equipment and security electronic repairs.

CARTA values professionalism, technical expertise, and a commitment to continuous learning. This role is ideal for candidates who possess strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret technical instructions clearly. Candidates should be prepared to maintain a clean, safe work environment and demonstrate physical capability to handle equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Overall, the Electric Vehicle Specialist position at CARTA offers a rewarding career path within the growing field of electric vehicle technology in public transportation, supported by a stable employer committed to employee development and workplace safety.