Apprentice Equipment Technician

Western States Equipment Company; Kalispell (MT); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Apprentice Equipment Technician role at Western States Equipment Company involves performing basic maintenance and heavy equipment repair under supervision, with development of diagnostic and repair skills across engines, hydraulics, powertrain, and electrical systems. Emphasis on safety, accuracy, and continuing training.

You will work under a Journeyman or Master level technician to develop practical skills, complete tasks, and learn service reporting while adhering to company policies and

Qualifications

• Proof of high school diploma or GED.
• Associates degree in diesel technology, trade school diploma, or one-year equivalent experience in a Caterpillar or similar environment with hydraulic, engine and powertrain experience required.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record required.
• Must be able to communicate (speak, read, comprehend, write in English).

Responsibilities

• Perform basic maintenance and heavy equipment repair under supervision.
• Assist with diagnosis, tests, and repairs per manufacturer specifications.
• Contribute to safety programs and proper documentation of work performed.
• Support journeyman or master technician in various system repairs and inspections.

Skills

Basic computer/typing skills

Job-related certifications

Manufacturer software knowledge

Teamwork and relationship building

Attendance and overtime discipline

Understanding of company values

Education

HS diploma or GED

Associate degree or equivalent experience

Valid driver's license

English communication ability

Job description

SUCCESS AT WESTERN STATES: Western State’s culture is based on passion for our Vision, Mission, and VALUES. We are fiercely committed to SAFETY and sending every employee, safely home, every day. We strive for EXCELLENCE in all we do and are proud to be a “play to win” organization. We act with INTEGRITY in each and every decision we make. Our People and TEAMWORK drive a fun and engaging culture. We are ACCOUNTABLE as individuals and as an organization.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Apprentice Equipment Technician is responsible for basic maintenance and heavy equipment repair, under the supervision of a Journeyman or Master level Technician. Developing skillset include diagnosis, removing, repairing, installing, disassembling, assembling, rebuilding, and reconditioning, according to manufacturer specifications.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Safety

• Actively cares, promotes, manages, and advocates safety at Western States. As a team member in the organization, it is critical to ensure all employees, vendors, and clients have a safe work environment while adhering to all applicable safety policies, procedures and standards.
• Ability to complete Job Hazard Analysis (JHA’s) prior to any job-related tasks according to WSECO’s policy and standards.
• Maintains clean/clutter free personal work areas to ensure safe environment for all WSECO employees.
• Adhering to required personal protective equipment (PPE) as identified in safety policy.

Diagnosis, Troubleshooting, and Repair

• Develops basic troubleshooting skills on various engine and equipment systems under the supervision of a Journeyman or Master Level Technician.
• Assists with skill level appropriate testing while comparing data to specifications to determine if the system is working as designed.
• Assists with repairs and diagnosing machine failures according to WSECO’s time requirement guidelines.
• Performs experience level appropriate tasks independently, including inspections and minor troubleshooting, when scheduled for required preventative maintenance service.

Engines and Powertrain

• Ability to independently complete engine preventative maintenance and inspect/repair external engine components.
• Performs preventative maintenance duties on powertrain including proper additive use and oil sampling. Basic troubleshooting and repair include but not limited to identifying leaks, replacing seals/hub bearings and races, adjusting clutch brakes, removing/inspecting axles, and identifying u-joint and yoke series.
• Basic understanding and assisted replacement of various brake systems.

Electrical, Hydraulics, HVAC, and Cab

• Understands basic electrical components with the ability to test, repair, and replace circuits. Includes but is not limited to Deutsch and Ampseal Connectors, 6/12/24 battery voltage systems, and ability to repair/replace varies harness types.
• Ability to independently perform basic hydraulic systems maintenance to include but not limited to fluid and filter replacement, full system cleanout, adjusting relief valve pressures, and pump flows.
• Troubleshoot and service HVAC systems to include evacuating, recharging, and replacing components when required.
• Basic understanding of general mechanical/electrical cab functions pertaining to operator interfaces.

Undercarriage

• Under supervision of Journeyman or Master level technician performs general tasks in troubleshooting and repair of various frame and suspension systems including tracks, track pads, drive sprockets, and idlers.
• Ability to identify undercarriage components and perform track sag measurements.
• Participates in continued education and training initiatives as outlined in the Western States Equipment Technician Career Development Plan. (TCDP)
• Learns how to utilize service manuals (STW, SIS and parts books) to address technical issues and perform all required tasks within technician level abilities, in accordance to printed procedures.
• Develops familiarity with parts reusability guidelines.
• Develops ability to write and read complete, factual service reports for files and warranty purposes using STW for timely work order closing.
• Develops skill sets to address all inquiries in a prompt and friendly manner in an effort to meet or exceed internal/external client expectations.
• Performs other duties as assigned while developing a mindset for technician productivity.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

• Basic computer/typing skills.
• Ability to obtain job related certifications for any specialty equipment such as but not limited to forklifts, rigging and overhead cranes, etc.
• Developing knowledge of manufacturer specific software. (SIS, ET, and STW)
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Consistent attendance and timeliness with the ability to work overtime with limited notice.
• Working within and promoting Western States’ purpose, vision and values.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Proof of high school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
• Associates degree in diesel technology, trade school diploma, or one-year equivalent experience in a Caterpillar or similar environment with hydraulic, engine and powertrain experience required.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record required.
• Must be able to communicate (speak, read, comprehend, write in English).

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

• Ability to stand for long periods of time along with walking, sitting, repetitively climbing stairs, reaching (including but not limited to above-shoulder reaching), repetitive bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, leaning and twisting.
• Ability to generate 97 ft./lbs. of force, by pushing and pulling.
• Ability to repeatedly lift up to 60lbs from the ground and place on a shelf/platform set up to 65 inches off the ground.
• Ability to carry up to 20 lbs. while repeatedly ascend/descend a minimum of ten