Richard Merrin
Hopkinsville,KY
Summary
Proven leader and skilled automotive technician with extensive experience in vehicle maintenance and operations, notably with the US Army. Demonstrates exceptional decision-making and communication abilities, ensuring operational excellence and high client satisfaction. Expert in logistics management and safety protocols, significantly enhancing team productivity and efficiency.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Master Driver
US Army
Fort Campbell North, KY
07.2023 - Current
- Maintained high customer satisfaction with prompt and courteous service during deliveries.
- Developed strong relationships with clients through clear communication and professional demeanor.
- Updated management on daily operations through detailed reports highlighting successes or areas requiring improvement within the transportation department.
- Collaborated with other departments to address customer concerns or issues promptly, maintaining positive client relationships.
Heavy Vehicle Operator
US Army
Fort Bliss, TX
04.2015 - 11.2017
- Managed hours-of-service compliance, ensuring adherence to regulations and preventing driver fatigue-related incidents.
- Trained new hires in the safe operation of heavy vehicles, ensuring consistent adherence to company protocols and regulatory compliance.
- Participated in ongoing training programs aimed at enhancing heavy vehicle operator skills including safety courses, industry updates seminars.
- Ensured accurate load distribution by effectively loading and unloading cargo according to weight restrictions and guidelines.
- Improved heavy vehicle operational efficiency by conducting regular inspections and implementing preventative maintenance measures.
- Enhanced safety standards by strictly adhering to company policies and industry regulations during vehicle operation.
- Increased overall team productivity by efficiently completing assigned tasks within tight deadlines without compromising safety or quality standards.
- Performed thorough pre-trip inspections, identifying potential issues early and preventing costly road breakdowns or accidents.
- Assisted in emergency situations involving vehicle breakdowns or accidents by providing immediate support until professional help arrived.
- Mitigated risks associated with transporting hazardous materials through strict adherence to proper handling procedures.
- Loaded and unloaded goods and freight from tractor trailers, heavy duty trucks and flatbed vehicles.
Squad Leader
US Army
Fort Campbell North, KY
07.2019 - 07.2021
- Maintained discipline within the ranks by enforcing standards of conduct expected from a professional military organization consistently and fairly.
- Conducted thorough after-action reviews following each operation to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.
- Operated heavy equipment, fire equipment and mobile Incident Command Center vehicle.
- Developed tailored training programs to address individual skill gaps, resulting in improved performance across the entire squad.
- Maintained high morale within the squad by fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
- Provided critical input to higher-level decision-makers during strategic planning sessions based on first-hand experiences from field operations.
- Enhanced team cohesion with regular debriefings, feedback sessions, and team-building exercises.
Automotive Technician
Certified Tire Center
Riverside, CA
03.2004 - 03.2005
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment, demonstrating pride in personal workspace while contributing to overall shop cleanliness.
- Changed, rotated, and balanced tires on different types of vehicles.
- Inspected and tested vehicles and completed preventive maintenance such as engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotations, wheel balancing, and filter replacement.
- Troubleshot and diagnosed faults with vehicle systems and components using OEM-specific code readers, diagnostic trees, and online knowledge bases.
- Upheld high safety standards in the workplace by following proper protocols when handling hazardous materials and utilizing protective gear as needed.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing timely and accurate repair estimates for various automotive issues.
- Kept equipment in good working order by following operating instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, and maintaining supplies.
- Used specialized tools to detect leaks in gas and refrigerant systems.
- Repaired and replaced worn and damaged components.
- Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
- Read and followed technical documentation to complete accurate repairs.
- Investigated customer complaints to identify cause of malfunctions.
- Serviced air conditioning systems, changed and topped off fluids and completed maintenance inspections.
- Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
- Utilized special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines to align wheels, axles, frames and steering mechanisms of automobiles.
- Tore down, repaired and rebuilt faulty assemblies such as power systems, steering systems and linkages.
Automotive Technician
Goodyear
Highland, CA
07.2002 - 02.2004
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment, demonstrating pride in personal workspace while contributing to overall shop cleanliness.
- Replaced damaged, missing, or defective parts with new and refurbished components.
- Changed, rotated, and balanced tires on different types of vehicles.
- Inspected and tested vehicles and completed preventive maintenance such as engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotations, wheel balancing, and filter replacement.
- Upheld high safety standards in the workplace by following proper protocols when handling hazardous materials and utilizing protective gear as needed.
- Analyzed and located malfunctions in brakes, motors, switches, and control systems.
- Maintained accurate records of time and materials required to perform repairs and service.
- Used specialized tools to detect leaks in gas and refrigerant systems.
- Safeguarded customer trust by ensuring adherence to ethical repair practices and maintaining a transparent communication approach throughout the service process.
- Boosted team morale and productivity by actively participating in staff training, sharing knowledge and skills with coworkers.
- Repaired and replaced worn and damaged components.
- Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
- Analyzed vehicle data using advanced diagnostic equipment.
- Read and followed technical documentation to complete accurate repairs.
- Investigated customer complaints to identify cause of malfunctions.
- Serviced air conditioning systems, changed and topped off fluids and completed maintenance inspections.
- Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
Automotive Alignment Specialist
Biggio Ford Dealership
Steubenville, OH
07.2001 - 06.2002
- Performed test drives on vehicles before inspection to assist with diagnosing problems and after inspection to confirm problem resolution.
- Conducted beginning and end of shift tool inventory to provide good tool serviceability and accountability.
- Diagnosed customer vehicle problems and assigned specific model repair kit needed for misalignment.
- Reduced tire wear and improved vehicle handling for clients through precise alignment corrections.
- Drove and guided vehicles onto vehicle lifts and safely secured vehicles to prevent shift.
- Optimized vehicle performance by conducting thorough pre-alignment inspections and making necessary adjustments.
- Performed wheel balancing tasks, ensuring smooth driving experiences for clients post-alignment services.
- Maintained tidy, clean work environment, reducing risk of lost tools or parts and enhancing shop safety.
- Maintained a clean workspace, promoting a safe environment for both technicians and customers alike.
- Interacted with customers to explain issues causing misalignment or damage to vehicle.
- Explained alignment diagnostic results to customers and recommended best course of action.
- Rotated, mounted and balanced tires on cars, trucks, and vans.
- Dismounted, mounted, and repaired tires according to manufacturer specifications.
- Serviced customer vehicles quickly and accurately to meet daily appointment schedules.
- Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
- Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
- Read and followed technical documentation to complete accurate repairs.
- Analyzed vehicle data using advanced diagnostic equipment.
- Serviced air conditioning systems, changed and topped off fluids and completed maintenance inspections.
- Coordinated with parts department to determine availability of necessary components.
- Tore down, repaired and rebuilt faulty assemblies such as power systems, steering systems and linkages.
- Utilized special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines to align wheels, axles, frames and steering mechanisms of automobiles.
Auto Mechanic
Bills Auto Service
East Springfield, OH
06.2000 - 06.2001
- Improved vehicle performance by diagnosing and repairing a wide range of automotive issues.
- Repaired engine failures and mechanical and electrical systems malfunctions and replaced parts and components to maintain vehicle functional condition.
- Maintained a safe working environment by adhering to safety procedures and proper use of tools and equipment.
- Maintained vehicle records by recording service and repairs.
- Protected company reputation by consistently following ethical practices when performing all job duties.
- Inspected and tested vehicles and completed preventive maintenance such as engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotations, wheel balancing, and filter replacement.
- Performed diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures to find and identify root causes of mechanical issues.
- Completed full vehicle inspections to check for leaks, damage, or other issues of concern.
- Replaced damaged, missing, or defective parts with new and refurbished components.
- Changed, rotated, and balanced tires on different types of vehicles.
- Serviced vehicles according to OEM recommended maintenance schedules for oil changes, engine tune-ups and fluid changes.
- Used specialized tools to detect leaks in gas and refrigerant systems.
- Repaired and replaced worn and damaged components.
- Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
- Analyzed vehicle data using advanced diagnostic equipment.
- Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
- Tore down, repaired and rebuilt faulty assemblies such as power systems, steering systems and linkages.
- Tuned automotive systems and components to optimize functionality and prolong life of each piece.
- Utilized special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines to align wheels, axles, frames and steering mechanisms of automobiles.
- Corrected faults and maximized performance by rebuilding systems and individual components.
- Read and followed technical documentation to complete accurate repairs.
Auto Mechanic
Good Year
Highland, CA
03.1999 - 05.2000
- Improved vehicle performance by diagnosing and repairing a wide range of automotive issues.
- Repaired engine failures and mechanical and electrical systems malfunctions and replaced parts and components to maintain vehicle functional condition.
- Maintained a safe working environment by adhering to safety procedures and proper use of tools and equipment.
- Maintained vehicle records by recording service and repairs.
- Protected company reputation by consistently following ethical practices when performing all job duties.
- Verified vehicle serviceability by conducting test drives and adjusting controls and systems.
- Examined components and general state of vehicle engine to diagnose issues accurately.
- Utilized advanced diagnostic equipment to quickly identify issues, resulting in faster repair turnaround times for customers.
- Inspected and tested vehicles and completed preventive maintenance such as engine tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotations, wheel balancing, and filter replacement.
- Performed diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures to find and identify root causes of mechanical issues.
- Completed full vehicle inspections to check for leaks, damage, or other issues of concern.
- Replaced damaged, missing, or defective parts with new and refurbished components.
- Changed, rotated, and balanced tires on different types of vehicles.
- Serviced vehicles according to OEM recommended maintenance schedules for oil changes, engine tune-ups and fluid changes.
- Used specialized tools to detect leaks in gas and refrigerant systems.
- Repaired and replaced worn and damaged components.
- Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
- Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
- Tuned automotive systems and components to optimize functionality and prolong life of each piece.
- Read and followed technical documentation to complete accurate repairs.
Auto Technician
Bolger Bros
Fontana, CA
06.1997 - 03.1999
- Replaced damaged, missing, or defective parts with new and refurbished components.
- Serviced vehicles according to OEM recommended maintenance schedules for oil changes, engine tune-ups and fluid changes.
- Completed full vehicle inspections to check for leaks, damage, or other issues of concern.
- Tested vehicle components and systems to identify issues.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by maintaining open lines of communication with colleagues and management regarding potential areas for improvement or need for assistance.
- Optimized vehicle longevity by performing routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, brake pad replacements, fluid checks, and filter changes.
- Performed diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures to find and identify root causes of mechanical issues.
- Kept equipment in good working order by following operating instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, and maintaining supplies.
- Analyzed and located malfunctions in brakes, motors, switches, and control systems.
- Used specialized tools to detect leaks in gas and refrigerant systems.
- Serviced air conditioning systems, changed and topped off fluids and completed maintenance inspections.
- Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
- Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
- Repaired and replaced worn and damaged components.
- Read and followed technical documentation to complete accurate repairs.
- Tuned automotive systems and components to optimize functionality and prolong life of each piece.
- Analyzed vehicle data using advanced diagnostic equipment.
- Tore down, repaired and rebuilt faulty assemblies such as power systems, steering systems and linkages.
- Maintained awareness of vehicle market trends to assess customer demands and budgets.
Automotive Alignment Specialist
Ramona Firestone
Riverside, CA
02.1995 - 01.1997
- Performed test drives on vehicles before inspection to assist with diagnosing problems and after inspection to confirm problem resolution.
- Demonstrated flexibility in adapting to various vehicle types, confidently navigating differences in design while executing precision alignments.
- Provided excellent customer service through detailed explanations of alignment findings and necessary repairs.
- Enhanced workshop efficiency by maintaining tools and equipment essential for automotive alignment tasks.
- Consulted manufacturer specifications when aligning vehicles to ensure adherence to established parameters effectively.
- Reduced tire wear and improved vehicle handling for clients through precise alignment corrections.
- Drove and guided vehicles onto vehicle lifts and safely secured vehicles to prevent shift.
- Streamlined inspection processes, identifying and addressing any underlying suspension or steering concerns impacting alignment.
- Utilized advanced diagnostic equipment to pinpoint specific malfunctions contributing to misalignment concerns accurately.
- Optimized vehicle performance by conducting thorough pre-alignment inspections and making necessary adjustments.
- Performed wheel balancing tasks, ensuring smooth driving experiences for clients post-alignment services.
- Updated knowledge of industry trends, staying current with the latest alignment technology advancements.
- Maintained tidy, clean work environment, reducing risk of lost tools or parts and enhancing shop safety.
- Maintained a clean workspace, promoting a safe environment for both technicians and customers alike.
- Interacted with customers to explain issues causing misalignment or damage to vehicle.
- Explained alignment diagnostic results to customers and recommended best course of action.
- Rotated, mounted and balanced tires on cars, trucks, and vans.
- Dismounted, mounted, and repaired tires according to manufacturer specifications.
- Replaced and repaired tires using best practices for safe vehicle maintenance.
- Repaired tires to avoid costly replacements by patching, plugging and replacing valves.
- Disposed of old tires correctly, meeting safety and environmental requirements.
- Inflated tires to prescribed PSI per load requirements to optimize tire safety.
- Maintained and managed tire and hardware inventory with regular stock assessments.
- Inspected vehicle brakes, shocks and suspension systems, making repair recommendations to restore condition.
- Verified vehicle safety by testing batteries, performing oil changes and inspecting fluid levels.
- Repaired and replaced worn and damaged components.
- Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
- Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
- Read and followed technical documentation to complete accurate repairs.
- Investigated customer complaints to identify cause of malfunctions.
- Tore down, repaired and rebuilt faulty assemblies such as power systems, steering systems and linkages.
Auto Mechanic Assistant
Pep Boys
Upland, CA
08.1993 - 02.1995
- Promoted a positive workplace culture through effective communication skills when collaborating with team members during high-pressure situations.
- Played an integral role in reducing shop overhead expenses by efficiently managing inventory levels and minimizing waste during repairs.
- Supported lead mechanic in completing large-scale projects such as engine rebuilds or transmission replacements.
- Consistently met deadlines for repair orders while maintaining exceptional attention to detail and workmanship.
- Performed thorough inspections on incoming vehicles to identify necessary repairs or maintenance needs.
- Replaced gaskets, flushed coolant and performed tune-ups as part of minor vehicle maintenance.
- Raised vehicle on hydraulic jack or hoist to gain access to mechanical units bolted to underside of vehicle.
- Inspected cars to diagnose problems and perform repairs.
- Conducted road tests on vehicles per to verify safe operating order of vehicle.
- Used wrenches and hoists to remove units such as engines and transmissions.
- Repaired and replaced worn and damaged components.
- Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
- Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
- Read and followed technical documentation to complete accurate repairs.
- Coordinated with parts department to determine availability of necessary components.
Automotive Alignment Specialist
Firestone Tire & Service
Upland, CA
07.1991 - 07.1993
- Performed test drives on vehicles before inspection to assist with diagnosing problems and after inspection to confirm problem resolution.
- Diagnosed customer vehicle problems and assigned specific model repair kit needed for misalignment.
- Enhanced workshop efficiency by maintaining tools and equipment essential for automotive alignment tasks.
- Supported inventory management efforts, monitoring stock levels of critical parts required for successful alignment interventions regularly.
- Remained educated and trained on new technology to enhance repair quality and achieve good alignment results for multiple vehicle types.
- Drove and guided vehicles onto vehicle lifts and safely secured vehicles to prevent shift.
- Minimized downtime between appointments by efficiently completing alignments within scheduled timeframes.
- Performed wheel balancing tasks, ensuring smooth driving experiences for clients post-alignment services.
- Updated knowledge of industry trends, staying current with the latest alignment technology advancements.
- Operated under time constraints while prioritizing safety and emphasizing quality.
- Maintained tidy, clean work environment, reducing risk of lost tools or parts and enhancing shop safety.
- Maintained a clean workspace, promoting a safe environment for both technicians and customers alike.
- Explained alignment diagnostic results to customers and recommended best course of action.
- Rotated, mounted and balanced tires on cars, trucks, and vans.
- Dismounted, mounted, and repaired tires according to manufacturer specifications.
- Operated machines safely and correctly, including tire changers and wheel balancers.
- Repaired tires to avoid costly replacements by patching, plugging and replacing valves.
- Inflated tires to prescribed PSI per load requirements to optimize tire safety.
- Maintained and managed tire and hardware inventory with regular stock assessments.
- Inspected vehicle brakes, shocks and suspension systems, making repair recommendations to restore condition.
- Verified vehicle safety by testing batteries, performing oil changes and inspecting fluid levels.
- Repaired and replaced worn and damaged components.
- Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
- Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
- Investigated customer complaints to identify cause of malfunctions.
- Utilized special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines to align wheels, axles, frames and steering mechanisms of automobiles.
Education
Associate Of General Studies - Science Education
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, ALDiploma -
Etiwanda High School
Etiwanda, CA06.1990
Skills
- Strong decision-making
- Vehicle maintenance knowledge
- Traffic law expertise
- Driver Training Experience
- Accident prevention strategies
- Advanced Vehicle Handling
- Logistics Management Expertise
- Extreme Weather Driving
- Time Management
- Punctual and Reliable
- Valid Driver's License
- Clean Driving Record
- Transportation
- Defensive Driving
- Vehicle inspections
- Vehicle Inspection
- Safety Protocols
- Route Planning
- Problem-solving abilities
- Multitasking
- Excellent Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Tractor-Trailer Operation
- Trailer Coupling and Uncoupling
- Load Inspection
- Visual Inspection
Accomplishments
Army good conduct award
Timeline
Master Driver
US Army
07.2023 - Current
Squad Leader
US Army
07.2019 - 07.2021
Heavy Vehicle Operator
US Army
04.2015 - 11.2017
Automotive Technician
Certified Tire Center
03.2004 - 03.2005
Automotive Technician
Goodyear
07.2002 - 02.2004
Automotive Alignment Specialist
Biggio Ford Dealership
07.2001 - 06.2002
Auto Mechanic
Bills Auto Service
06.2000 - 06.2001
Auto Mechanic
Good Year
03.1999 - 05.2000
Auto Technician
Bolger Bros
06.1997 - 03.1999
Automotive Alignment Specialist
Ramona Firestone
02.1995 - 01.1997
Auto Mechanic Assistant
Pep Boys
08.1993 - 02.1995
Automotive Alignment Specialist
Firestone Tire & Service
07.1991 - 07.1993
Associate Of General Studies - Science Education
Columbia Southern University
Diploma -
Etiwanda High School