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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Truck Trailer Mechanic

💰 $25 - $45 per hour

Skilled TradesTransportationLogisticsAutomotive Maintenance

🎯 Role Definition

As a Truck Trailer Mechanic, you are the backbone of our logistics and transportation operations. You will perform a wide range of maintenance tasks, from routine preventive maintenance and federal inspections to complex structural repairs and electrical system diagnostics on various types of trailers, including dry vans, reefers, flatbeds, and tankers. Your expertise ensures the safety of our drivers and the public, minimizes fleet downtime, and upholds our commitment to operational excellence. This role requires a proactive problem-solver with a strong work ethic and a commitment to quality.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Automotive Technician
  • Mechanic's Helper or Apprentice
  • Trade School Graduate (Diesel Technology, Welding)

Advancement To:

  • Lead Trailer Mechanic / Senior Technician
  • Shop Foreman / Maintenance Supervisor
  • Fleet Maintenance Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Diesel Engine Mechanic
  • Heavy Equipment Mechanic
  • Fleet Safety Inspector

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform comprehensive preventive maintenance (PMs) on semi-trailers, including chassis, landing gear, and suspension systems, following established schedules and checklists.
  • Conduct thorough DOT/FHWA annual inspections to ensure full compliance with federal and state safety regulations, identifying and documenting all required repairs.
  • Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair complex 12v electrical systems, including lighting, wiring harnesses, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking Systems) using multimeters and diagnostic tools.
  • Service and repair complete air brake systems, including replacing brake chambers, slack adjusters, s-cams, drums, and troubleshooting air supply and valve issues.
  • Perform major structural repairs on trailer bodies, including patching or replacing side panels, roofs, and flooring using riveting, welding, and bonding techniques.
  • Execute welding and fabrication tasks (MIG, TIG, Stick) for repairing frames, cross-members, bumpers, and other critical structural components.
  • Inspect, repair, and replace suspension components such as air springs (airbags), leaf springs, shock absorbers, and bushings to ensure proper ride height and stability.
  • Service and replace wheel-end components, including tires, wheels, hubs, bearings, and seals, ensuring proper torque and lubrication procedures are followed.
  • Diagnose and repair hydraulic systems on specialized trailers, such as liftgates, dump trailers, or moving floor systems.
  • Address and repair issues with trailer doors (swing and roll-up), including hinges, latches, rollers, and seals to ensure cargo security and weatherproofing.
  • Mount, dismount, and balance tires on trailer wheels, performing inspections for irregular wear and damage and ensuring proper inflation levels.
  • Perform alignment checks and adjustments on trailer axles to prevent irregular tire wear and improve fuel efficiency.
  • Troubleshoot and perform basic repairs on refrigeration units (reefers) on temperature-controlled trailers, and coordinate with specialized technicians for major repairs.
  • Utilize computerized maintenance management software (CMMS) to accurately document all work performed, parts used, and time spent on each repair order.
  • Communicate effectively with drivers and operations staff to understand reported issues and provide clear updates on repair status and timelines.
  • Perform quality control checks on all completed repairs to ensure the work meets high standards of safety and reliability before releasing the trailer back into service.
  • Repair and replace flooring in trailers, including wood, aluminum, and composite materials, ensuring a durable and safe surface for freight.
  • Test and certify landing gear assemblies for proper operation, performing repairs or replacements of cranks, legs, and cross shafts.
  • Operate service trucks to perform roadside assistance and mobile repairs on disabled trailers in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and wiring diagrams to effectively diagnose and complete complex repairs on a variety of trailer makes and models.

Secondary Functions

  • Maintain and clean shop equipment and tools to ensure they are in safe and optimal working order.
  • Assist in training and mentoring junior mechanics or apprentices, sharing knowledge and best practices.
  • Participate in regular safety meetings and contribute to the continuous improvement of shop safety procedures.
  • Provide input to management on vehicle and equipment specifications for new purchases based on maintenance experience and trends.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Air Brake & ABS Expertise: Proficiency in diagnosing, repairing, and replacing complete air brake systems and ABS components to DOT standards.
  • Welding & Fabrication: Strong welding and metal fabrication skills (MIG and Stick are essential) for structural trailer repair.
  • Electrical Systems Diagnostics: Expertise in troubleshooting and repairing 12v electrical systems, including complex wiring, lighting, and computer-controlled circuits.
  • DOT/FHWA Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of federal and state regulations for commercial vehicles.
  • Suspension & Wheel-End Repair: Ability to service and repair trailer suspension systems (air and spring) and complete wheel-end assemblies.
  • Tire & Wheel Service: Competence in tire mounting, dismounting, repair, and understanding of wear patterns.
  • Hydraulic Systems: Knowledge of hydraulic principles and ability to troubleshoot and repair systems like liftgates.
  • Diagnostic Software: Familiarity with using diagnostic software and tools for modern trailer systems (e.g., Bendix, Wabco).

Soft Skills

  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical-thinking abilities to efficiently diagnose and resolve mechanical issues.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and thorough in all inspections and repairs to ensure safety and quality.
  • Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision.
  • Communication: Clear and effective communication skills for collaborating with team members, managers, and drivers.
  • Safety Mindset: A strong commitment to adhering to all safety protocols and maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Adaptability: Willingness to learn new technologies and repair techniques as trailer systems evolve.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

  • Technical/Vocational degree or certificate in Diesel or Trailer Mechanics.
  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications in Brakes, Suspension, and Electrical Systems are highly desirable.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Diesel Technology
  • Heavy Equipment Maintenance
  • Welding Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5 years of hands-on experience as a trailer mechanic, diesel technician, or in a related role.

Preferred:

  • Experience working in a high-volume fleet maintenance environment.
  • Possession of a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a significant plus.
  • Documented experience with multiple trailer types (e.g., dry van, reefer, flatbed, tanker).
  • A personal set of tools is often required.
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