Maintenance Shop Foreman/Heavy Equipment Mechanic

The Maintenance Shop Foreman / Heavy Equipment Mechanic is a working supervisor responsible for leading the daily operations of the maintenance shop while performing advanced diagnostics, repairs, and preventive maintenance on heavy equipment, trucks, and diesel-powered machinery. This position balances hands-on mechanical work with shop leadership to ensure equipment is repaired safely, efficiently, and with minimal downtime.

Responsibilities

• Hands-On Maintenance & Repairs
  • Perform preventive maintenance and major repairs on heavy equipment, trucks, trailers, and support equipment.
  • Diagnose and repair diesel engines, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, drivetrains, brakes, steering, and HVAC systems.
  • Utilize OEM diagnostic software and electronic testing equipment.
  • Perform engine, transmission, hydraulic pump, and component rebuilds as needed.
  • Conduct inspections and testing to ensure equipment meets manufacturer specifications.
  • Complete field service repairs when necessary.
  • Maintain detailed repair records, work orders, and equipment histories.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Shop Leadership
  • Lead the daily activities of mechanics and shop personnel.
  • Assign work based on priorities, equipment availability, and operational needs.
  • Assist mechanics with difficult diagnostics and complex repairs.
  • Inspect completed work to ensure quality and compliance with company standards.
  • Monitor shop productivity and minimize equipment downtime.
  • Train and mentor mechanics while promoting professional development.
  • Assist with hiring, onboarding, coaching, and performance management.
• Shop Operations
  • Coordinate preventive maintenance schedules.
  • Prioritize repair work based on operational needs.
  • Manage work orders from initiation through completion.
  • Coordinate with operations regarding equipment availability.
  • Communicate repair status and estimated completion times.
  • Assist in developing maintenance schedules and long-term fleet planning.
• Parts & Inventory
  • Coordinate parts ordering with Purchasing.
  • Ensure required parts are available before repairs begin.
  • Maintain inventory of commonly used parts and shop supplies.
  • Process warranty claims, core returns, and vendor returns.
  • Monitor tool inventories and shop equipment.
• Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, EPA, and company safety requirements.
  • Enforce PPE requirements and safe work practices.
  • Conduct toolbox talks and safety meetings.
  • Investigate equipment failures and safety incidents.
  • Maintain documentation for inspections and regulatory compliance.
  • Ensure proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Administrative Responsibilities
  • Maintain accurate maintenance records.
  • Approve completed work orders.
  • Track labor hours, repair costs, and equipment downtime.
  • Monitor shop productivity and maintenance KPIs.
  • Assist in budget planning and cost control.
  • Prepare reports on fleet maintenance performance.

Requirements

• Education
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Diesel Technology or Heavy Equipment Technology preferred.
• Experience
  • Minimum five (5) years of heavy equipment diesel mechanic experience.
  • Minimum two (2) years of supervisory, lead mechanic, or foreman experience preferred.
  • Experience repairing construction equipment, off-road equipment, and heavy trucks.
• Preferred Certifications
  • ASE Certifications
  • OEM Certifications (CAT, Cummins, John Deere, Komatsu, Volvo, etc.)
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
  • CDL preferred
• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Advanced diesel engine diagnostics
  • Hydraulic troubleshooting
  • Electrical diagnostics
  • Welding and fabrication experience preferred
  • Ability to read service manuals and schematics
  • Strong leadership and coaching skills
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
  • Computer proficiency with maintenance management systems
  • Commitment to safety and quality workmanship

Physical Requirements

• Lift up to 75 pounds.
• Stand, bend, kneel, climb, and work in confined spaces.
• Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to respond to emergency breakdowns outside normal business hours when required.

Working Conditions

• Combination of maintenance shop, equipment yard, and field service environments.
• Exposure to heavy equipment, noise, vibration, dust, fuels, lubricants, and weather conditions.
• Overtime, weekends, and occasional on-call work may be required.

Core Competencies

• Leadership
• Mechanical Expertise
• Safety Leadership
• Accountability
• Communication
• Planning & Organization
• Customer Service
• Team Development
• Quality Focus
• Continuous Improvement