Brand new for 2023: We are psyched to announce that we have moved into Artisan’s Asylum HQ. Now we can supplement our seasonal outdoor programming with year-round, indoor options to engage with you in the dynamic, creative community space that is A2!

Planning for 2023 is underway now and we need your help to turn the ideas and the passion of our staff and volunteers into butts on bikes in Allston-Brighton. Make a recurring or one-time donation now to support our work this year, and beyond.

We’re hiring program staff/mechanics for our 2024 season (and beyond)!

CommonWheels is seeking a passionate and self-directed person with demonstrated mechanics experience to staff Open Shops and other events in conjunction with other mechanics and additional volunteers. This is a part-time, seasonal position.

Responsibilities:

  • Greet participants, make sure they sign our waiver

  • Diagnose major repair issues and make recommendations (everything from “go buy this part and come back and we’ll fix it together” to “you’re really better off with a new bike”)

  • Guide participants through repair process by instructing them on how to do the repairs themselves and demystifying bicycle maintenance of minor and moderate intensity (e.g. fix flat tires, adjust/replace brakes and cables, true wheels, adjust/replace chains, repack hubs and bottom brackets, adjust derailleurs, adjust bike fit), particularly related to safety check

  • Manage logistics of event setup and equipment: Transport bike trailer of equipment (about 100 pounds) from storage to events; keep tools organized and accounted for; manage inventory of materials/parts used; prepare orders for resupply.

  • Design and run workshops on bicycle repair topics such as fixing a flat, cleaning and lubing drivetrain, and occasionally more advanced topics

Requirements:

  • Must have at least 1 year mechanics experience, either in a bike shop or with their personal bike(s), including patching tubes, changing tires, adjusting derailleurs, adjusting brakes, recabling. 

  • Must be comfortable working with a wide range of bicycles of all styles, ages, and levels of disrepair

  • Comfortable working outdoors from April through October (events canceled in cases of severe weather)

  • Conversational proficiency in Spanish is strongly desired. Knowledge of Portuguese, Russian, Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese), or Korean also a plus

  • Must be organized, highly responsible, and able to work independently with little to no supervision

  • Must be friendly, patient, and excited to empower others to learn bicycle mechanics

  • Comfortable working with the general public of Allston/Brighton

Time Commitment: April through October; One weeknight (preferably Wednesday) between 4pm and 9pm; Saturdays between 11am and 6pm
Please note: the exact schedule will not be set until staffing is complete.

Location: Various locations in Allston and Brighton 

Compensation: $20 - $22/hr, commensurate with experience

How to apply:
Please send a resume and brief (one page) cover letter to info@commonwheels.org with the subject line “Mechanic 2024.”

CommonWheels is an equal employment opportunity employer. Women, people of color, LGBT persons, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

DEADLINE: Sunday, March 31, 2024