Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 (In-Training)
Description
About WSDOT
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a skilled and motivated Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 to join our team in Okanogan, WA. In this journey-level role, you will perform inspections, diagnose mechanical issues, and complete major and minor repairs and preventive maintenance on a wide variety of vehicles and equipment essential to WSDOT’s highway maintenance and transportation operations. Your technical expertise will help keep our fleet safe, reliable, and ready to support the traveling public.
You will use your mechanical knowledge and problem-solving skills to identify equipment issues, determine appropriate repairs, and maintain equipment in safe operating condition. When complex or unusual problems arise, you will collaborate with higher-level Heavy Equipment Mechanics by presenting your findings, recommending potential solutions, and helping determine the best course of action. Your work will play an important role in supporting safe, efficient, and dependable transportation operations throughout the region.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 will:
- Perform preventive maintenance, repairs, and maintains all types of equipment used in the maintenance and construction of roadways
- Maintain and repair all types of diesels, gasoline, electric and alternative fuel type of motors or engines.
- Maintain, repair, trouble shoot, all types of gear boxes such as manual, computer controlled and automated or automatic transmissions, differentials, angle boxes, reduction boxes, transfer cases, torque converters, hydrostatically driven, etc.
- Maintain, repair, trouble shoot all types of hydraulic and control systems.
- Maintain, various braking systems, trouble shoot, repair brake systems of all types.
- Repair miscellaneous & various parts and components used in light and heavy equipment
- Perform diagnostic and repair work on various snow and ice removal equipment.
Qualifications
This is a Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.
To be considered at the HEM1 level, the following is required:
- Mechanical Aptitude & Preventive Maintenance: Basic knowledge of automotive, diesel, or heavy equipment maintenance principles. Experience assisting with or performing routine preventive maintenance, inspections, fluid changes, or minor repairs on vehicles or equipment under guidance.
- Heavy Equipment Operation: Basic experience in operating heavy equipment (e.g., graders, plows, loaders, excavators) commonly used in highways, construction, or logging.
- Safety Awareness & Compliance: Knowledge of typical workplace safety procedures and commitment to following safety policies. Ability to learn and comply with agency safety requirements, including confined space entry, fall protection, hazardous materials, and participation in Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP) and required safety training.
- Technical & Computer Skills: Basic ability to use computers and electronic systems for timekeeping, work orders, inventory, and maintenance documentation. Familiarity with Microsoft Office and email.
To be considered at the HEM2 level, the following is required:
- Heavy Equipment Maintenance: Demonstrated ability performing Journeyman level preventive maintenance on heavy equipment such as vehicles over 26,000 GVW and medium to light vehicles.
- Heavy Equipment Operation: Experience in operating and maintaining heavy equipment (e.g., graders, plows, loaders, excavators) commonly used in highways, construction, or logging.
- Safety Awareness & Compliance: Strong understanding of workplace safety procedures and commitment to following safety policies, including confined space entry, fall protection, and hazardous material handling. Ability to participate in the creation and implementation of Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP) and attend regular safety training.
- Technical & Administrative Proficiency: Demonstrated ability in the use of electronic systems for timekeeping, maintenance tracking, inventory management, and various equipment associated with PM work. Proficient in standard computer applications including Microsoft Office and email communication.
The following are required at all levels:
- Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently. Experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
- Respect and Equal Opportunity: Experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
- Licensing & Certification: Possession of a valid driver's license with the ability to obtain a Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) without restrictions, with N endorsement and without air brake restriction, along with a valid Medical Card, within twelve (12) months of hire.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Successful completion of vocational technical training in heavy equipment, light vehicles and/or industrial/commercial equipment repair, including welding/fabrication.
- ASE certifications in Automotive and/or Heavy-duty equipment.
- DOT brake certifications
- A/C certification.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Heavy Equipment and Vehicle Repair Knowledge: Knowledge of heavy equipment, light vehicle, and industrial or commercial equipment repair principles and practices, including the ability to apply technical training to diagnose, maintain, and repair mechanical systems and perform welding and fabrication tasks.
- Automotive and Heavy Equipment Technical Certifications: Relevant industry certifications, such as Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications in automotive or heavy-duty equipment repair, demonstrating technical knowledge and proficiency in equipment maintenance and repair.
- DOT Brake Systems Knowledge and Certification: Knowledge of Department of Transportation (DOT) brake system requirements, inspection procedures, repair practices, supported by applicable brake inspection or certification credentials.
- Vehicle Air Conditioning Systems Knowledge and Certification: Knowledge of vehicle air conditioning systems, including the ability to inspect, diagnose, service, and repair system components, supported by applicable air conditioning certification.
Important Notes
- Work is generally performed 6:00.AM - 4:30 PM, Monday- Thursday or Tuesday- Friday, possibly varying shifts seasonally.
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
- This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
- WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit
Why WSDOT
- Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
- Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
- Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
- Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
- An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
- An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
- Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 #20290 in the subject line.