Automotive Equipment Mechanic I

City of Cedar Rapids; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

AFSCME union

Job summary

The City of Cedar Rapids is hiring an Automotive Equipment Mechanic to maintain and repair a diverse municipal fleet, from fire apparatus to snowplows and loaders. You’ll work on engines, transmissions, hydraulics, electrical systems, and more, with opportunities to expand your skills and make a tangible impact on city services.

Expected schedule is Monday–Friday, 3:00pm–11:00pm. Starting pay is $28.46/hour with annual step increases to $31.51, $33.37, and $35.13 under the AFSCME contract.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required.
• 1–3 years journeyman automotive mechanic experience or equivalent.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to work with diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Rebuilds, repairs, and replaces engines, transmissions, differentials in cars, trucks, bulldozers, loaders, sweepers and other equipment.
• Diagnoses engine problems.
• Performs complete engine overhauls.
• Repairs suspension systems, hydraulic systems, hydraulic braking systems, complete electrical systems.
• Attends work regularly and adheres to safety practices.
• Supports continuous process improvement initiatives.

Skills

Effective communication

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

High School Diploma

Equivalent education/experience

Tools

CDL Class B

Air brake endorsement

Medical Examiners Certificate

EPA 609 Certificate

Job description

Are you the kind of mechanic who enjoys solving problems, working on a wide variety of equipment, and knowing your work makes a real difference every day? If so, we'd love to have you join our team!

As an Automotive Equipment Mechanic, you'll do far more than routine repairs. You'll maintain and repair one of the most diverse municipal fleets in the region, working on fire apparatus, and heavy-duty trucks to construction equipment, snowplows, reuse trucks, utility vehicles, and special equipment. Every day brings something new, giving you the opportunity to expand your skills and tackle rewarding challenges.

If you're looking for a career where your expertise is appreciated, your work has a lasting impact, and no two days are exactly alike, this is the opportunity for you. Come build your future with a team that's committed to excellence, dedicated to serving our community, and proud of the work we do together.

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city.

Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!

About the Position

Provides technical mechanical services in the maintenance and repair of City vehicles and automotive equipment.

The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Rebuilds, repairs, and replaces engines, transmissions, differentials in cars, trucks, bulldozers, loaders, sweepers and other equipment
• Rebuilds sweepers, salt spreaders, carburetors, generators, starters and other moving parts
• Diagnoses engine problems
• Performs complete engine overhauls
• Repairs suspension systems, hydraulic systems, hydraulic braking systems, complete electrical systems
• Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies, procedures, and safety practices
• Attends work regularly at the designated place and time
• Supports continuous process improvement initiatives
• Maintains regular and consistent attendance at work
• Performs related work as required

Required Education and Experience

• High School Diploma and
• One (1) to three (3) years of experience as a journeyman automotive mechanic or
• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse populations

Required Licenses or Certifications

• Valid Commercial Driver's License Class B with air brake endorsements and valid Medical Examiners Certificate within one year of hire
• AC EPA Section 609 Certification within 6 months

Desired Qualifications

• Diesel experience

Work Schedule

• Monday-Friday 3:00pm-11:00pm (2nd Shift Hours)

Hourly Rate

The Automotive Equipment Mechanic I is covered under the AFSCME Bargaining Union, and all new hires begin employment at $28.46 per hour, regardless of years of experience. Employees in this classification receive a step increase on their anniversary. Employees in this classification receive a step increase on their anniversary.

The steps effective 7/1/2026 include:

• New Hire: $28.46
• 1 year: $31.51
• 2 years: $33.37
• 3 years: $35.13