Job Description: Heavy Equipment Shop Mechanic
Department: Equipment Maintenance / Shop Operations
Reports To: Shop Supervisor / Shop Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: Clearwater, FLPosition Summary
We are seeking an experienced, dependable, and motivated Heavy Equipment Shop Mechanic to join our equipment maintenance team. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical troubleshooting, diagnostic, repair, and preventative maintenance experience working with heavy construction equipment used in underground utility construction. This position is responsible for maintaining and repairing excavators, backhoes, skid steers, and other construction equipment to ensure safe, reliable operation and minimize equipment downtime. Experience with pipe fusion machines, boring equipment, directional drilling rigs, and specialized underground utility equipment is highly desirable but not required. Fabrication and welding experience are considered additional advantages.
Preferred Qualifications:- Technical school diploma or certification in diesel mechanics, heavy equipment maintenance, or a related field.
- OEM training or certifications from Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar manufacturers.
- Experience in underground utility construction, pipeline construction, or trenchless installation operations.
- Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), including E360 or similar software.
- Welding or fabrication capabilities.
- Field service mechanic experience.
- Primary Responsibilities1. Heavy Equipment Maintenance & Repair
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain heavy construction equipment, including:
- Excavators (Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, etc.)Backhoes and tractor loaders
- Skid steers and compact track loaders
- Wheel loaders and other earthmoving equipment
- Trenchers, compactors, and miscellaneous construction equipment
- Perform mechanical repairs on diesel engines, hydraulic systems, transmissions, electrical systems, and powertrains.
- Identify equipment failures and determine appropriate repair solutions.
- Repair or replace hydraulic hoses, cylinders, pumps, valves, bearings, and other mechanical components.
- Perform scheduled preventative maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid inspections, lubrication, and equipment servicing.
- Inspect equipment for excessive wear, damage, leaks, and potential safety concerns.
- Perform operational testing following repairs to verify equipment performance.2. Troubleshooting & Diagnostics
- Utilize diagnostic tools, testing equipment, and manufacturer service manuals to identify equipment issues.
- Troubleshoot hydraulic, electrical, mechanical, and diesel engine problems.
- Diagnose equipment performance issues and recommend cost-effective repairs.
- Identify recurring equipment failures and recommend corrective actions to prevent future breakdowns.
- Communicate repair findings, estimated labor hours, and required replacement parts to the Shop Supervisor.3. Shop Operations & Documentation
- Maintain accurate records of equipment inspections, repairs, preventative maintenance, and labor hours.
- Document all parts and materials used for each equipment repair.
- Update work orders and maintenance records in the company's equipment management software.
- Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work environment.
- Properly maintain and care for company tools, diagnostic equipment, and shop machinery.
- Coordinate with the Shop Supervisor regarding repair priorities, equipment availability, and scheduled field deployments.
- Assist with emergency equipment repairs and field service when necessary.
Preferred Specialized Equipment Experience: Experience with the following equipment is highly desirable but not required:
Pipe Fusion Equipment:
McElroy, Ritmo, or similar HDPE pipe fusion machines.
Hydraulic fusion systems, heating plates, facing tools, and clamping assemblies.
Troubleshooting and servicing hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical fusion components.
Boring & Trenchless Equipment: Horizontal boring machines.