Mechanic 1

Darling Ingredients repurposes and recycles materials from the animal agriculture and food industries, transforming them into essential ingredients that feed animals, fertilize crops, fuel planes, and nourish people. We operate a global network of over 260 facilities in more than 15 countries, making us the largest publicly traded company of our kind. Our scale enables us to reduce waste and advance sustainability, supporting a circular economy.

About the role

The Mechanic 1 performs routine maintenance and basic repairs on trailers, diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles, and plant equipment. This entry-level position is designed to develop core competencies in fleet equipment maintenance under the supervision of senior mechanics and fleet managers.

Responsibilities

• Perform all preventive maintenance and repair work on fleet vehicles and plant equipment (wheel loaders, skid steers, man lifts, scissor lifts, backhoes, lawn mowers, farm tractors).
• Review driver vehicle inspection reports and repair inspections as directed by Mechanic 3s or the Fleet Manager.
• Conduct routine maintenance such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks.
• Inspect and replace basic components like belts, hoses, batteries, and lights.
• Assist in diagnosing mechanical issues using basic diagnostic tools.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the shop and work areas.
• Document work performed and parts used through maintenance logs or fleet management systems.
• Support Mechanic 2 and 3 with more complex repairs and diagnostics under supervision.
• Respond to roadside service calls for disabled vehicles when required.
• Adhere to all company safety rules and regulations; attend regularly scheduled safety meetings.
• Participate in ongoing training and certification programs (travel as needed).
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Valid Driver’s license.
• 1+ year experience in vehicle maintenance or a related technical field.
• Personal basic tool set to perform preventive maintenance (requirements vary by location).
• Basic understanding of diesel and gasoline engine operation and components.
• Experience with hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment.
• Experience with basic computer tasks and fleet software.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized.

Preferred Qualifications

• Class A CDL (preferred; may be required based on location).
• Brake certification (preferred; must be obtained within 6 months of hire).
• Vocational training in a related field.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Self-starter with strong self-motivation.

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid Time Off.

Working Conditions

The role involves exposure to the following work environments and physical demands:

• Constant exposure to unpleasant or disagreeable physical environments (e.g., high noise levels, strong odors, heat, cold).
• Occasional exposure to biohazardous conditions and electrical hazards (risk of electrical shock).
• Frequent exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals, requiring attention to safety.
• Constant handling or working with potentially dangerous equipment.
• Occasional travel to offsite locations.

Physical Demands

• Constantly walk, use hands to handle or feel, stoop/kneel/crouch/crawl, climb or balance, and lift/move up to 25 pounds.
• Frequently lift/move up to 50 pounds.
• Occasionally lift/move up to 100 pounds.
• Must be able to communicate effectively (talk, hear) and detect hazardous conditions (taste, smell).
• Vision requirements: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.