Apprentice Equipment Technician

About Western States

Western States’ culture is built on passion for our Vision, Mission, and Values. We are fiercely committed to SAFETY — sending every employee home safely, every day. We strive for EXCELLENCE in all we do and are proud to be a “play to win” organization. We act with INTEGRITY in every decision. Our People and TEAMWORK drive a fun and engaging culture. We are ACCOUNTABLE as individuals and as an organization.

About the role

The Apprentice Equipment Technician performs basic maintenance and heavy equipment repair under the supervision of a Journeyman or Master level Technician. The developing skillset includes diagnosis, removing, repairing, installing, disassembling, assembling, rebuilding, and reconditioning components according to manufacturer specifications.

Responsibilities

Safety

• Actively care for, promote, manage, and advocate safety at Western States; ensure all employees, vendors, and clients have a safe work environment while adhering to all applicable safety policies, procedures, and standards.
• Complete Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) prior to any job-related tasks per WSECO policy and standards.
• Maintain clean, clutter-free personal work areas to ensure a safe environment for all WSECO employees.
• Adhere to required personal protective equipment (PPE) as identified in safety policy.

Diagnosis, Troubleshooting, and Repair

• Develop basic troubleshooting skills on various engine and equipment systems under supervision of a Journeyman or Master Level Technician.
• Assist with skill-level-appropriate testing while comparing data to specifications to determine if systems are working as designed.
• Assist with repairs and diagnosing machine failures according to WSECO’s time requirement guidelines.
• Perform experience-level-appropriate tasks independently, including inspections and minor troubleshooting, when scheduled for required preventative maintenance service.

Engines and Powertrain

• Independently complete engine preventative maintenance and inspect/repair external engine components.
• Perform preventative maintenance duties on powertrain including proper additive use and oil sampling.
• Basic troubleshooting and repair including identifying leaks, replacing seals/hub bearings and races, adjusting clutch brakes, removing/inspecting axles, and identifying u-joint and yoke series.
• Basic understanding and assisted replacement of various brake systems.

Electrical, Hydraulics, HVAC, and Cab

• Understand basic electrical components with ability to test, repair, and replace circuits — including Deutsch and Ampseal Connectors, 6/12/24 battery voltage systems, and repair/replacement of various harness types.
• Independently perform basic hydraulic systems maintenance: fluid and filter replacement, full system cleanout, adjusting relief valve pressures, and pump flows.
• Troubleshoot and service HVAC systems including evacuating, recharging, and replacing components when required.
• Basic understanding of general mechanical/electrical cab functions pertaining to operator interfaces.

Undercarriage

• Under supervision of Journeyman or Master level technician, perform general tasks in troubleshooting and repair of various frame and suspension systems including tracks, track pads, drive sprockets, and idlers.
• Identify undercarriage components and perform track sag measurements.

Continued Development

• Participate in continued education and training initiatives as outlined in the Western States Equipment Technician Career Development Plan (TCDP).
• Learn to utilize service manuals (STW, SIS, and parts books) to address technical issues and perform all required tasks within technician level abilities, in accordance with printed procedures.
• Develop familiarity with parts reusability guidelines.
• Develop ability to write and read complete, factual service reports for files and warranty purposes using STW for timely work order closing.
• Develop skill sets to address all inquiries promptly and courteously to meet or exceed internal/external client expectations.
• Perform other duties as assigned while developing a mindset for technician productivity.

Requirements

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Basic computer/typing skills.
• Ability to obtain job-related certifications for specialty equipment such as forklifts, rigging, and overhead cranes.
• Developing knowledge of manufacturer-specific software (SIS, ET, and STW).
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Consistent attendance and timeliness with ability to work overtime with limited notice.
• Working within and promoting Western States’ purpose, vision, and values.

Education and Experience

• Proof of high school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
• Associate’s degree in diesel technology, trade school diploma, or one-year equivalent experience in a Caterpillar or similar environment with hydraulic, engine, and powertrain experience required.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record required.
• Appropriate technician-level tooling required.
• Must be able to communicate (speak, read, comprehend, write in English).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods along with walking, sitting, repetitively climbing stairs, reaching (including above-shoulder reaching), repetitive bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, leaning, and twisting.
• Ability to generate 97 ft./lbs. of force by pushing and pulling.
• Ability to repeatedly lift up to 60 lbs from the ground and place on a shelf/platform up to 65 inches off the ground.
• Ability to carry up to 20 lbs while repeatedly ascending/descending a minimum of ten 8-inch stair steps.
• Ability to repeatedly ascend/descend a minimum of 10 rungs on various ladders.
• Ability to assemble/disassemble various sizes of nuts and bolts while repeatedly bending, stooping, squatting, kneeling, and/or crouching.
• Exposure to extreme temperatures and environments.
• Must be able to meet all safety requirements for applicable safety policies.

This role is designated as safety-sensitive.