About this role
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Location: Richmond, VA
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
Starting Pay: $24.00/hour; higher depending on experience, up to $35.00/hour
Travel: Up to 50% required
Position Overview
An established equipment services organization is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Mechanic to maintain and repair heavy machinery, trucks, trailers, cranes, and other motorized equipment.
This hands-on position requires strong mechanical knowledge, troubleshooting skills, and the ability to respond to emergency repair needs. The ideal candidate has extensive experience with heavy equipment maintenance, hydraulics, electronics, and other technical systems.
Responsibilities
- Perform inspections, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repairs on heavy equipment, trucks, trailers, cranes, and other motorized machinery.
- Diagnose mechanical failures and determine the necessary parts, tools, and repair procedures.
- Coordinate daily assignments and repair priorities with the Shop Foreman.
- Prepare equipment, tools, and replacement components before beginning maintenance work.
- Complete service documentation and work orders, recording equipment mileage, operating hours, repair details, and maintenance performed.
- Notify the Shop Foreman of urgent repair needs and equipment issues requiring immediate attention.
- Maintain equipment and work areas in a clean, safe, and organized condition.
- Follow established safety practices and applicable operating regulations.
- Work with other maintenance personnel to complete repairs and minimize equipment downtime.
- Assist with other mechanical and maintenance projects as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 years of hands-on repair and maintenance experience involving heavy equipment, trailers, and/or cranes.
- At least 5 years of experience in two or more additional technical specialties, including hydraulics, electronics, or small engine repair.
- High school diploma or GED.
- Technical training or trade school education in diesel mechanics, or equivalent practical training.
- Strong mechanical troubleshooting and diagnostic abilities.
- Ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and handle time-sensitive repair assignments.
- Effective communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Comfortable using computers and electronic maintenance or work order systems.
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
- Valid driver's license with a good driving history.
- Professional certifications in heavy equipment maintenance and repair are preferred.
Travel & Work Conditions
- Must be available for emergency service calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Willingness to travel outside the local area, including out-of-state assignments.
- Travel requirements may reach 50%.
- Flexibility to work extended hours when emergency repairs or service assignments arise.
- Ability to perform maintenance and repairs in changing weather conditions.
Physical Requirements
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, twisting, and stooping.
- Ability to work in physically demanding maintenance environments.
- Regularly lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Items weighing more than 75 pounds must be handled with assistance.
Education & Technical Experience
- Approximately two years of technical or vocational training in diesel mechanics or a related mechanical field.
- At least five years of practical mechanical maintenance and repair experience.
- Industry-recognized certifications in heavy equipment maintenance and repair are preferred.