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 family of brands and businesses spanning more than 260 facilities in over 15 countries, making entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable.

About the role

The Mechanic 1 is responsible for conducting routine maintenance and performing basic repairs on trailers, diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles, and plant equipment. This role is designed to develop core competencies in fleet equipment maintenance under the supervision of Mechanic 2, 3, and Fleet Managers.

Responsibilities

• Performs all preventive maintenance and repair work on fleet vehicles and plant equipment (wheel loaders, skid steers, man lifts, scissor lifts, backhoes, lawn mowers, and farm tractors).
• Reviews driver vehicle inspection reports and repair inspections as directed by Mechanic 3s and/or the Fleet Manager.
• Performs routine maintenance such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks.
• Inspects and replaces basic components like belts, hoses, batteries, and lights.
• Assists in diagnosing mechanical issues using basic diagnostic tools.
• Maintains cleanliness and organization of the shop and work areas.
• Documents work performed and parts used through maintenance logs or fleet management systems.
• Supports Mechanic 2 and 3, under their supervision, with more complex repairs and diagnostics.
• Responds to roadside service calls for disabled vehicles when required.
• Ensures familiarity with and observes all company safety rules and regulations; attends regularly scheduled safety meetings.
• Participates 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 related technical field.
• Personal basic tool set to perform preventative maintenance (based on 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 use of 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 date.
• Vocational training preferred.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Self-starter and self-motivated.

Benefits

• 401(k).
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Paid Time Off.

Working Conditions

The role involves exposure to:

• Unpleasant or disagreeable physical environments (e.g., high noise levels, strong odors, heat, and cold).
• Biohazardous conditions.
• Toxic or caustic chemicals, requiring attention to safety considerations.
• Electrical hazards and risk of electrical shock.
• Potentially dangerous equipment.
• Occasional travel to offsite locations.

Physical Demands

• Constantly (at least 51% of the time): Walk, use hands to finger/handle/feel, stoop/kneel/crouch/crawl, climb or balance, lift up to 10 pounds.
• Frequently (21% to 50% of the time): Sit, lift up to 25 pounds, lift up to 50 pounds.
• Occasionally (up to 20% of the time): Lift up to 100 pounds.

• Vision demands: Close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.