About this role
Heavy Equipment & Diesel Mechanic
Location: Merrillville, IN
Job Type: Direct Hire
Starting Pay: $23.00/hour — higher pay available depending on experience
Travel: Up to 50%
Availability: 24/7 emergency response required
Position Overview
Seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment & Diesel Mechanic to keep heavy equipment, trucks, trailers, cranes, and other motorized equipment operating safely and reliably. This role involves routine maintenance, troubleshooting, field repairs, and emergency service.
Key Responsibilities
- Diagnose, maintain, and repair heavy equipment, trucks, trailers, cranes, and other motorized machinery.
- Attend daily briefings with the Shop Foreman to review priorities and coordinate repair assignments.
- Respond to emergency repair requests and coordinate urgent work with the Shop Foreman.
- Locate and organize the necessary tools, parts, and supplies to reduce equipment downtime.
- Complete work orders accurately and on time, documenting mileage, operating hours, repairs, and maintenance performed.
- Participate in team-based maintenance and repair projects to ensure timely completion of work.
- Follow all workplace safety rules and required procedures.
- Keep tools, equipment, and work areas clean, organized, and ready for use.
- Travel out of town and out of state to support emergency repairs and field service needs.
- Perform additional maintenance duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- At least 5 years of maintenance and repair experience involving heavy equipment, trailers, and/or cranes.
- At least 5 years of experience across two additional technical areas, such as hydraulics, electronics, or small-engine repair.
- High school diploma or GED, along with trade school education or equivalent training in diesel mechanical repair.
- Two years of technical or vocational school training and five years of hands-on repair experience.
- Valid driver's license with a good driving record.
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
- Proficiency with computers and maintenance documentation systems.
- Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to prioritize urgent work, meet deadlines, and maintain productivity under pressure.
- Results-oriented approach with a strong sense of urgency.
Certifications and Technical Training
- Professional certifications related to heavy equipment maintenance and repair.
- Technical or vocational training in diesel mechanics or a related field.
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
- Frequent bending, twisting, stooping, walking, and lifting.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and for extended hours.
- Regularly lift up to 50 pounds.
- Obtain assistance when handling items weighing more than 75 pounds.
- Flexibility to respond to emergency assignments at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Additional Requirements
- Must be available for 24/7 emergency response.
- Must be willing to travel up to 50%, including overnight and out-of-state assignments.
- Must be able to work collaboratively with the shop team and follow repair priorities.