Difficult situation need advice 9

[geekmaiden]

I am an engineer in an equipment repair shop. I work with older men who as they put it 'they have dirt in their toolboxes older than me'. I have only been in an engineering position for a year. I have endured harrassment for the year. The job was worth while because the ops manager, who was the engineer previously, and I had a great working relationship and he had much to teach me. He has been promoted to a different facility. I am currently trying to be the shop engineer and cover his prior duties.

A key part of my job is to make decisions based on information I receive from the guys on the floor. The problem is that they lie. So as a new engineer I can never be sure that I am making the right choices. I have to cross-examine them to be sure the information I am receiving is what they have actually done. This is a long standing situation. My prior boss had the same problem but his experience was his guide. I feel that I am not qualified for the job as it is and having to conduct the third degree is not helping. Since I am doing two jobs I don't have time to perform through interrogations.

I am considering leaving but the thought of quitting is hard for me to handle. I do not see a solution in my current situation. Please advise

 

[martymarrr]

I would advise you have your "guys" document (in writing or electronic email) every step they have performed when they are trouble shooting a problem. THEN, when you find the real reason for the problem, you will have a documented LIE from your "guys" and something to take to your supervisor. I have found out that when someone has to fill out a permanent report verse a verbal report, they seem to remember the truth a little better. It’s that accountability thing...
Right now they are playing you because they know its just your word against theirs. But with documentation backing you up, it will change their ways. Now this may force you to witness the trouble shooting to keep them from tossing evidence. Ask to see ALL the damaged "pins" or parts. If they are going to act like kids, then treat them like kids by having them show you how or what they did to get to the current problem. If they throw a fit or start getting defensive, that probably means they are not telling the truth and afraid of being found out.