Mechanical Laborer

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a hands-on individual with a natural curiosity for how things work? We're on the hunt for a motivated and dependable Mechanical Laborer to become the backbone of our operations team. In this critical, physically active role, you will support our skilled mechanics and technicians in the assembly, maintenance, and repair of a wide range of industrial equipment. This is a fantastic entry point for someone with a strong mechanical aptitude looking to build a stable, long-term career in the skilled trades. If you thrive in a team-oriented setting, enjoy solving tangible problems, and are deeply committed to safety and quality, we encourage you to apply.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer
Construction Worker
Warehouse Associate
Automotive Lube Technician

Advancement To:

Industrial Mechanic
Maintenance Technician
Apprentice Millwright or Welder
Field Service Technician
Lead Hand / Shop Foreman

Lateral Moves:

Equipment Operator
Parts Technician
Quality Control Inspector

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Assist skilled mechanics with the diagnosis, disassembly, repair, and reassembly of complex industrial machinery and equipment.
Safely operate a variety of hand and power tools, such as grinders, drills, impact wrenches, and cutting tools, to complete assigned tasks.
Perform routine and preventative maintenance, including lubricating components, changing oil and filters, and inspecting equipment for wear and tear.
Execute material handling duties, utilizing forklifts, pallet jacks, and overhead cranes to move heavy parts, raw materials, and finished assemblies.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment by sweeping floors, cleaning machinery, and properly storing tools and supplies.
Read and interpret basic mechanical blueprints, diagrams, and technical manuals to assist in the assembly and installation of new equipment.
Prepare surfaces for welding or painting by grinding, sanding, and cleaning components to ensure quality finishes.
Conduct basic quality checks on parts and assemblies to ensure they meet company standards and specifications.
Act as a safety watch (fire watch, confined space attendant) during specialized jobs to ensure the well-being of the team.
Support fabrication tasks by cutting, fitting, and positioning metal components for welders.
Operate stationary shop equipment such as drill presses, band saws, and hydraulic presses under supervision.
Respond to urgent repair needs and assist in troubleshooting equipment breakdowns to minimize operational downtime.
Set up and tear down job sites, ensuring all necessary tools, equipment, and materials are available and properly managed.
Perform basic rigging and assist in the lifting of heavy components, ensuring proper techniques are used to prevent accidents.

Secondary Functions

Assist with inventory management by counting and organizing parts, reporting low stock levels to a supervisor.
Accurately document completed work orders and maintenance logs, detailing the tasks performed and parts used.
Participate actively in daily safety briefings, toolbox talks, and team meetings to understand work assignments and potential hazards.
Provide flexible, general support throughout the facility as directed, demonstrating a willingness to contribute to overall team success.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Hand & Power Tool Proficiency: Confident and safe operation of tools like angle grinders, impact wrenches, drills, and saws.
Mechanical Aptitude: A fundamental understanding of mechanical principles, gears, and how machinery operates.
Material Handling: Experience or certification in operating forklifts, pallet jacks, or overhead cranes.
Basic Blueprint Reading: Ability to interpret simple technical drawings, schematics, and work instructions.
Measurement Skills: Proficiency in using tape measures, calipers, and other measuring tools with accuracy.
Shop Safety Knowledge: Understanding of core safety protocols, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) usage.
Basic Fabrication: Familiarity with cutting, fitting, or preparing metal for welding is a plus.

Soft Skills

Strong Work Ethic: Punctual, reliable, and dedicated to completing tasks efficiently and to a high standard.
Physical Stamina & Strength: Ability to stand for long periods, work in various positions, and regularly lift objects up to 50 lbs.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Works well with others, willing to assist teammates, and follows direction from senior technicians and supervisors.
Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail to ensure tasks are done correctly and safely, preventing rework and accidents.
Problem-Solving Attitude: Eager to learn and contribute to finding solutions for mechanical issues.
Clear Communication: Ability to listen to instructions and communicate needs or concerns effectively.
Adaptability: Can adjust to changing work priorities, conditions, and tasks in a dynamic environment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Certificate from a vocational or technical college in Industrial Mechanics, Welding, or a related trade.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Industrial Maintenance Technology
Welding Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0-3 years of experience in a relevant hands-on environment.

Preferred: 1+ years of experience as a shop helper, construction laborer, or in a similar role within a manufacturing, industrial, or heavy equipment repair setting is highly advantageous.