Experienced Diesel Mechanic

Indrebuild; Brighton, Northern (CO, KY); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Paid holidays

401(k) and matching

Job summary

Independent Rebuild Specialist seeks an experienced Diesel Mechanic to lead engine rebuild projects on Caterpillar engines in a high-precision environment.

You will assemble engines, inspect components, and ensure documentation meets strict Caterpillar standards while mentoring apprentices and coordinating with support staff. A strong safety mindset and leadership are essential for success.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2–5 years of diesel engine rebuild experience on Caterpillar engines or heavy-duty diesels.
• Strong knowledge of teardown, inspection, and assembly procedures.
• Experience reading Caterpillar specifications, service manuals, and schematics.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital photo documentation.
• Ability to document inspections and completed work accurately.
• Experience operating forklifts and overhead cranes or willingness to become certified.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks with minimal supervision.
• Commitment to safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Assemble Caterpillar diesel engines per OEM specs and internal standards.
• Lead engine rebuild projects from start to finish with coordination of support staff.
• Organize and stage engine components prior to assembly.
• Read and interpret Caterpillar documentation and schematics.
• Complete assemblies using proper tools, torque specs, and procedures.
• Document inspections, QC reports, and photo records throughout builds.
• Verify measurements meet Caterpillar standards before progressing.
• Operate forklifts, cranes, and material handling equipment safely.
• Mentor apprentices and collaborate with team members.
• Meet production deadlines while maintaining quality.

Skills

Diesel engine rebuild

Caterpillar engine knowledge

Teardown and inspection

Measurement tools

Torque procedures

Reading schematics/manuals

Tool familiarity (Caterpillar tooling)

Documentation accuracy

Team leadership

Safety procedures

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Caterpillar OEM tooling

Precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers)

Dial indicators and bore gauges

Job description

We’re seeking an experienced Diesel Mechanic looking to take the next step in their career while working on some of the largest Caterpillar mining engines in the world. This role is ideal for someone who takes pride in building engines to the highest standards of quality, precision, and craftsmanship while leading projects from assembly through completion.
As an Experienced Diesel Mechanic, you’ll work alongside and learn from industry professionals, including an owner with over 30 years of Caterpillar engine rebuilding experience, while continuing to develop your technical expertise and leadership abilities. You’ll be responsible for managing your own engine builds, coordinating with support personnel, and ensuring every engine is assembled to Caterpillar specifications through accurate documentation, quality inspections, and strict attention to detail.
We’re looking for someone who genuinely enjoys building diesel engines, thrives in a team environment, embraces accountability, and is committed to continuous learning. Success in this position requires professionalism, organization, leadership, and an uncompromising commitment to safety and quality.

• Assemble Caterpillar diesel engines according to OEM specifications and internal quality standards.
• Lead engine rebuild projects from assembly through completion while coordinating work with support personnel.
• Organize, stage, and prepare engine components prior to assembly.
• Read and interpret Caterpillar assembly specifications, manufacturing schematics, service information, and documentation.
• Complete engine assemblies using proper tooling, torque specifications, measuring equipment, and approved assembly procedures.
• Accurately complete assembly documentation, inspection reports, QC paperwork, and photo documentation throughout the build process.
• Verify all measurements, clearances, and specifications meet Caterpillar standards before advancing to the next stage of assembly.
• Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, and material handling equipment safely.
• Utilize hand tools, power tools, hydraulic equipment, and specialty Caterpillar tooling.
• Maintain clean, organized workstations and properly care for company tools and equipment.
• Work closely with management, machining, teardown, and quality control departments to ensure production schedules are met.
• Maintain excellent communication with team members regarding job status, material needs, and potential issues.
• Meet production deadlines while maintaining the highest quality standards.
• Demonstrate leadership by mentoring apprentices and working collaboratively with team members.
• Lift up to 75 pounds and safely perform physically demanding work throughout the day.
• Maintain a positive attitude, remain coachable, and continually expand technical knowledge.
• Perform additional duties assigned by management.
• Follow all PPE requirements and company safety procedures without exception.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license.
• 2–5 years of diesel engine rebuild experience on Caterpillar engines (C15, C18, C27, C32, C175, 3500 Series) or comparable heavy-duty diesel engines.
• Strong understanding of diesel engine teardown, inspection, and assembly procedures.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and digital photo documentation.
• Experience using precision measuring equipment including micrometers, dial indicators, feeler gauges, dial bore gauges, and calipers.
• Ability to read and interpret Caterpillar assembly specifications, service manuals, schematics, and technical documentation.
• Advanced knowledge of diesel mechanic hand tools, specialty tooling, torque procedures, bolt grades, thread repair, and fastener identification.
• Ability to interpret and apply Caterpillar Reuse Criteria.
• Strong understanding of Caterpillar assembly specifications and documentation requirements.
• Ability to accurately document inspections, measurements, and completed work.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience operating forklifts and overhead cranes or ability to become certified.
• Ability to prioritize workload and manage multiple tasks with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Leadership ability with experience directing or assisting team members.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving, conflict resolution, and critical thinking abilities.
• Ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Ability to safely lift up to 75 pounds and perform physically demanding work.
• Commitment to following all company safety procedures and quality standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of Caterpillar diesel engine rebuild procedures.
• Thorough understanding of Caterpillar OEM assembly standards and specifications.
• Experience applying Caterpillar Reuse Criteria during engine rebuilding.
• 2–5 years rebuilding Caterpillar diesel engines.
• Experience with Caterpillar C15, C18, C27, C32, C175, and 3500 Series engines.
• Previous leadership or lead technician experience.
• Trade school, diesel technology degree, or related technical education.
• Light fabrication, thread repair, and component repair experience.
• Experience mentoring apprentices or junior technicians.
• Experience using digital inspection systems and photo documentation.
• Strong understanding of Caterpillar engine component identification and part applications.
• Full on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced diesel technicians
• A ten-year career path within a world-class diesel remanufacturing facility
• Competitive hourly wage with rapid advancement potential
• All tools are provided at no expense
• A clean, professional, and safety-first work environment
• After a 90-day probationary period, benefits that include:
• 100% employer provided insurance plan options
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) and matching after the first year

Will I learn the complete engine rebuild process or work on an assembly line?

What benefits does Independent Rebuild Specialist offer employees?

Is there a defined career path for technicians who want to advance?

Where are Independent Rebuild Specialist positions located, and what are the typical work schedules?

What qualities do you look for when hiring technicians and other team members?