Bike Mechanic Apprenticeship

About Seattle REconomy

Seattle REconomy (www.seattlereconomy.org) is a quickly growing nonprofit that supports economies of reuse, sharing and circularity. We do this through community based programs like the NE Seattle and Shoreline Tool Libraries (These community spaces are like book libraries but we lend a wide range of tools instead of books), DIY and sustainability classes, and community bike and wood shops. This internship offers incredible hands-on experience at high level strategic design, planning and project management. We work with every intern as a valued individual to identify the specific area that they want to focus on, that also supports the greater mission of Seattle REconomy.

Our Goals

• Reduce overall consumer consumption through tool sharing
• Reduce our community’s environmental footprint
• Educate community members on proper tool use and maintenance
• Enhance the community’s self-reliance and resilience
• Foster a sense of community and mutual support
• Encourage the growth of the reuse economy
• Empower people to make, repair and repurpose products themselves

Job Description: Bike Mechanic Apprentice

Organization: Seattle REconomy / The Bike Shack

Duration: 12 Weeks

Schedule: 10 Hours per week, schedule based on staff/volunteer availability

Start Date: TBD

Compensation: Paid, $21.66/hr

Location: Shoreline Tool Library Bike Shack, 16610 Aurora Ave N Shoreline, WA 98133

Age Requirement: 18+

Program Sponsor: Funding for this Environmental project/program has been provided, in full or in part, by the City of Shoreline’s Environmental Mini-Grant Program.

Position Overview

Seattle REconomy is seeking a motivated and community-minded individual for our 12-week Bike Mechanic Apprenticeship. This program is designed to bridge the gap between a casual interest in cycling and professional mechanical proficiency. Under the guidance of skilled staff and veteran volunteers, the apprentice will learn to "rescue" bicycles, support a circular economy, and manage a community-facing shop environment.

Program Structure

The apprenticeship is divided into three segments:

• Month 1: Technical Foundation & Instruction Focus is on intensive hands-on training. Working through a structured syllabus, you will master the anatomy of the bicycle, specialized tool usage, and core component and mechanical theory.
• Month 2: Integrated Hands-on Application Transition into the shop floor. You will work alongside mentors to tune up donated bikes for resale and assist Tool Library members with DIY repairs, as well as the selling of bikes to patrons. This month focuses on troubleshooting, speed, and understanding the operational flow of the Bike Shack.
• Month 3: Leadership & Proficiency Certification During the final month, you will take the lead. With light supervision, you will run shop shifts and manage volunteer interactions. The program concludes with a comprehensive final test of your mechanical knowledge and shop management skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform full safety inspections and tune-ups on various bicycle types (mountain, road, hybrid, kids), following defined protocols.
• Diagnose mechanical issues and execute repairs (braking systems, drivetrains, bearing overhauls, wheel trueing).
• Assist community members in the "Do-It-Yourself" space, providing guidance and technical advice.
• Process and manage bike donations and maintain an organized, safe shop environment.
• Manage shop administrative tasks during shifts, including point-of-sale systems and member check-ins.

Qualifications

• Passion for Sustainability: A strong interest in the circular economy and waste diversion.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Experience with basic tools is preferred, but a willingness to learn and a high attention to detail are required.
• Communication Skills: Ability to work patiently with volunteers and members of the public with varying levels of mechanical knowledge.
• Commitment: Ability to commit to the full 12-week schedule (10 hours/week). Reliable transportation.

How to Apply

Please fill out our Bike Mechanic Apprenticeship - Seattle REconomy Job Application and email bikeshack@seattlereconomy.org with any questions. Seattle REconomy is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate community, reuse, and the power of a well-tuned bicycle.

Fluent in English