Torchora
Back to Home

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Highway Mechanic

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

Skilled TradesAutomotiveTransportationGovernmentFleet Maintenance

🎯 Role Definition

As a Highway Mechanic, you are the backbone of our transportation infrastructure's operational readiness. This pivotal role is responsible for ensuring the safety, reliability, and longevity of a diverse fleet of vehicles and heavy equipment, from dump trucks and snowplows to loaders and pavers. You will apply advanced diagnostic techniques and expert repair skills to minimize downtime and keep essential public services running smoothly in all conditions. This position demands a proactive, safety-conscious professional who thrives on complex problem-solving and takes pride in maintaining mission-critical machinery.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Automotive Technician
  • Diesel Mechanic Apprentice
  • Heavy Equipment Technician
  • Fleet Maintenance Technician

Advancement To:

  • Lead Highway Mechanic / Shop Foreman
  • Fleet Maintenance Supervisor
  • Equipment Manager
  • Public Works Superintendent

Lateral Moves:

  • Heavy Equipment Field Mechanic
  • Diesel Engine Specialist
  • Fleet Analyst
  • Welder / Fabricator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Execute comprehensive preventive maintenance programs on a diverse fleet of state highway equipment, including dump trucks, front-end loaders, motor graders, and specialized snow removal vehicles.
  • Conduct advanced diagnostics on complex mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems using schematics, multimeters, and OEM diagnostic software to accurately identify and resolve malfunctions.
  • Perform major and minor repairs on diesel and gasoline engines, including complete overhauls, fuel system services, and emissions control system repairs.
  • Diagnose, repair, and rebuild transmissions, differentials, final drives, and other powertrain components to restore full functionality.
  • Service and repair advanced hydraulic systems, including pumps, valves, cylinders, and hoses, ensuring proper operation of plows, sanders, and lifting mechanisms.
  • Troubleshoot and repair sophisticated 12/24-volt electrical and electronic systems, including lighting, central controllers, and telematics hardware.
  • Perform certified inspections and repairs on air and hydraulic brake systems, ensuring compliance with all DOT and state safety standards.
  • Overhaul and repair steering and suspension components, performing alignments to ensure vehicle stability and operator safety.
  • Mount, dismount, and balance a wide range of heavy-duty tires and perform necessary repairs to ensure maximum service life.
  • Perform skilled welding, cutting, and fabrication using MIG, TIG, and stick welders to repair or modify equipment frames, bodies, and attachments.
  • Maintain and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems within vehicle cabs to ensure operator comfort and safety.
  • Respond to and perform emergency roadside repairs on disabled equipment to minimize traffic disruption and restore assets to service quickly.
  • Prepare and outfit new vehicles and equipment with specialized hardware, such as plows, salt spreaders, and emergency lighting systems.
  • Maintain and repair auxiliary power units (APUs), generators, and other ancillary equipment attached to the primary vehicle fleet.

Secondary Functions

  • Meticulously document all maintenance activities, parts usage, and labor time in a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).
  • Assist in managing inventory of spare parts, tools, and supplies, and create parts requisitions as needed for upcoming repairs.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to apprentice mechanics and other team members.
  • Participate in safety meetings and contribute to the continuous improvement of shop safety protocols and procedures.
  • Operate a variety of heavy equipment for the purpose of testing, diagnostics, and repositioning within the maintenance facility.
  • Uphold a clean, safe, and organized work environment in the shop and in field service vehicles.
  • Collaborate with equipment operators to understand reported issues and verify that repairs have been successfully completed.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Diesel Engine Diagnostics & Repair: Expertise in troubleshooting and overhauling engines from manufacturers like Cummins, Caterpillar, and Detroit Diesel.
  • Hydraulic System Troubleshooting: Proficient in reading hydraulic schematics and repairing pumps, cylinders, and control valves.
  • Electrical System Analysis: Skilled in using multimeters and diagnostic software to resolve complex wiring and electronic module issues.
  • Welding and Fabrication: Certified or highly proficient in MIG, TIG, and stick welding for structural repairs and modifications.
  • Air Brake Systems: In-depth knowledge of diagnosing, repairing, and certifying heavy-duty air brake systems per DOT regulations.
  • Preventive Maintenance (PM): Ability to develop and execute detailed PM schedules to maximize fleet uptime.
  • Heavy Equipment Operation: Competency in operating equipment such as loaders, graders, and dump trucks for testing purposes.
  • CDL (Commercial Driver's License): A Class A or B CDL is often required or highly preferred for road testing vehicles.
  • ASE Certifications: Certifications in Heavy-Duty Truck (T-Series) or related areas are highly desirable.
  • CMMS Software: Experience using maintenance management software to track work orders and inventory.

Soft Skills

  • Diagnostic Problem-Solving: A logical and systematic approach to identifying the root cause of complex equipment failures.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous in performing repairs and completing documentation to ensure safety and accuracy.
  • Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment with competing demands.
  • Adaptability: Flexibility to switch between different types of equipment and repair challenges throughout the day.
  • Safety Consciousness: A strong, unwavering commitment to personal and workplace safety protocols.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Works effectively with other mechanics, supervisors, and equipment operators to achieve common goals.
  • Strong Work Ethic: A self-motivated individual who can work independently and takes pride in their quality of work.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate or Associate's Degree from a vocational or technical college in Diesel Technology, Heavy Equipment Mechanics, or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Diesel Mechanics
  • Automotive Technology
  • Heavy Equipment Maintenance
  • Welding Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5+ years of hands-on experience as a diesel mechanic or heavy equipment technician.

Preferred: Demonstrable experience working on a diverse fleet of public works vehicles, including snow and ice removal equipment. Experience in a state, county, or municipal fleet maintenance facility is a significant plus.

Explore More Careers