Gearbox Mechanics - Humble, TX

HORSBURGH & SCOTT; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Horsburgh & Scott is seeking a skilled Gearbox Mechanic – Assembly & Disassembly to support our Humble, Texas operations. You will disassemble, inspect, evaluate, repair, and reassemble industrial gearboxes and related mechanical power transmission equipment, ensuring safety and adherence to quality standards.

The role requires hands-on expertise with rotating equipment, interpretation of technical drawings, and use of precision measuring instruments.

Qualifications

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Experience with inspection of gears, bearings, seals, housings, and related components.
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools and fitting tolerances.
• Experience in assembly and rebuild of industrial gearboxes.

Responsibilities

• Disassemble gearboxes and related equipment safely.
• Inspect gears, shafts, bearings, seals for wear and damage.
• Interpret mechanical drawings and specs for repairs.
• Use precision measuring tools accurately during inspection and assembly.
• Maintain disassembly and assembly documentation for each job.
• Collaborate with Engineering and QA to resolve technical issues.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Read drawings

Inspection

Troubleshooting

Manual dexterity

Education

High school diploma

Industrial mechanics training

Tools

Overhead cranes

Hoists

Forklifts

Job description

Position Title: Gearbox Mechanic – Assembly & Disassembly

Location: Humble, Texas
Department: Gearbox Repair & Assembly
Reports To: Shop Supervisor / Operations Manager
Employment Status: Full-Time
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY

Horsburgh & Scott is seeking a skilled and dependable Gearbox Mechanic – Assembly & Disassembly to support our industrial gearbox repair and rebuilding operations in Humble, Texas.

This position is responsible for the safe and efficient disassembly, inspection, evaluation, repair, and precision reassembly of industrial gearboxes and related mechanical power transmission equipment.

The successful candidate will possess strong mechanical aptitude, experience working with industrial rotating equipment, and the ability to interpret technical drawings, utilize precision measuring instruments, and perform mechanical assembly operations to established quality standards.

This position requires a hands-on individual who takes pride in workmanship, maintains a strong commitment to safety and quality, and demonstrates flexibility in supporting multiple shop activities as operational needs require.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Gearbox Disassembly & Inspection

• Safely disassemble industrial gearboxes, gear reducers, and related mechanical power transmission equipment.
• Inspect gears, shafts, bearings, seals, housings, and other internal components for wear, damage, and potential failure conditions.
• Utilize appropriate tools and equipment to remove bearings, gears, couplings, and other mechanical components.
• Identify and document damaged or worn components requiring repair, replacement, or further evaluation.
• Clean and prepare gearbox components for inspection, machining, and reassembly.
• Maintain accurate documentation of disassembly findings, component conditions, and recommended repairs.
• Work closely with Engineering, Quality, and Shop Leadership to identify repair requirements and resolve technical concerns.

2. Gearbox Assembly & Rebuilding

• Perform precision assembly and rebuilding of industrial gearboxes in accordance with engineering drawings, technical specifications, and established procedures.
• Install gears, shafts, bearings, seals, and related mechanical components.
• Measure and verify bearing fits, shaft tolerances, clearances, and component alignment.
• Set and verify gear backlash, bearing preload, and gear contact patterns as required.
• Utilize proper assembly techniques, torque specifications, and mechanical fastening procedures.
• Identify and correct assembly-related issues to ensure proper gearbox operation.
• Support final inspection, functional testing, and quality verification of completed gearbox assemblies.
• Ensure completed work meets customer specifications and Horsburgh & Scott quality standards.

3. Mechanical Troubleshooting & Technical Skills

• Read and interpret mechanical drawings, assembly diagrams, technical specifications, and work instructions.
• Utilize precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, dial indicators, bore gauges, calipers, and other inspection tools.
• Diagnose mechanical issues involving bearings, gears, shafts, seals, and related rotating equipment.
• Identify potential causes of mechanical failures and communicate findings to Engineering and Shop Leadership.
• Apply knowledge of mechanical fits, tolerances, lubrication, and alignment principles.
• Assist with determining appropriate repair methods and component replacement requirements.
• Maintain proper use and care of hand tools, power tools, hydraulic equipment, and precision measuring instruments.

4. Production Support & Operational Efficiency

• Complete assigned work orders and repair activities within established labor estimates and production schedules.
• Accurately record labor hours, job progress, and completed work activities.
• Communicate potential delays, material shortages, equipment concerns, and technical issues promptly to Shop Leadership.
• Coordinate with machinists, Engineering, Quality, and other departments to maintain efficient workflow.
• Assist with material handling, component preparation, equipment setup, and other production activities as needed.
• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to perform multiple shop functions based on operational priorities.
• Identify opportunities to improve assembly processes, reduce rework, and increase productivity.
• Maintain an organized and efficient work area.

5. Safety, Quality & Workplace Expectations

• Follow all company safety procedures, OSHA requirements, and established safe work practices.
• Properly operate overhead cranes, hoists, forklifts, and other material-handling equipment when trained and authorized.
• Utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Follow established lifting, rigging, and equipment-handling procedures.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment consistent with 5S principles.
• Inspect tools and equipment before use and report unsafe conditions.
• Ensure all work meets established quality requirements and customer expectations.
• Demonstrate consistent attendance, punctuality, professionalism, and accountability.
• Support a respectful, cooperative, and team-oriented workplace.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Technical training in industrial mechanics, millwright work, mechanical assembly, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2–5 years of experience in industrial mechanical assembly, gearbox repair, rotating equipment maintenance, or a related mechanical trade preferred.
• Experience with industrial gearbox disassembly and reassembly strongly preferred.
• Experience working with large industrial components and heavy mechanical equipment is highly desirable.

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands‑on troubleshooting abilities.
• Knowledge of industrial gearboxes, bearings, seals, shafts, and mechanical power transmission components.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and technical specifications.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments.
• Understanding of mechanical tolerances, bearing fits, gear backlash, and alignment.
• Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, hydraulic presses, and mechanical assembly equipment.
• Experience operating overhead cranes, hoists, and forklifts preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a manufacturing environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience rebuilding large industrial gearboxes used in steel, mining, power generation, marine, or other heavy industrial applications.
• Familiarity with helical, bevel, planetary, and worm gear configurations.
• Experience with gearbox failure analysis and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of industrial lubrication systems and bearing installation practices.
• Experience performing precision shaft and gear alignment.
• Familiarity with repair documentation, work orders, and ERP systems.
• Experience supporting gearbox testing and final quality inspections.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Mechanical Aptitude: Demonstrates a strong understanding of mechanical systems and the ability to troubleshoot equipment and component issues.

Quality & Attention to Detail: Performs accurate work while maintaining established tolerances, specifications, and workmanship standards.

Productivity: Completes assigned work efficiently while maintaining safety and quality expectations.

Accountability: Takes ownership of assigned responsibilities, accurately reports work activities, and follows established procedures.

Problem-Solving: Identifies mechanical challenges and works collaboratively to develop effective solutions.

Teamwork: Communicates effectively and supports coworkers and other departments to achieve operational goals.

Adaptability: Demonstrates a willingness to learn new skills, operate different equipment, and assist in other shop functions when required.

Continuous Improvement: Actively identifies opportunities to improve processes, reduce waste, and enhance operational efficiency.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

Performance will be evaluated based on:

Performance Area

Measurement

Productivity Actual labor hours compared to established job estimates

Quality Assembly accuracy, rework, and workmanship

Technical Competency Ability to independently perform assigned mechanical work

Safety Compliance with safety procedures and equipment requirements

Documentation Accuracy of inspection reports and labor records

Reliability Attendance, punctuality, and completion of assigned work

Teamwork Communication and support of shop operations

Continuous Improvement Participation in process and efficiency improvements

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and perform hands‑on mechanical work throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, with mechanical assistance or team lifting for heavier components.
• Ability to safely work around heavy industrial machinery, overhead cranes, and moving equipment.
• Ability to use hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring instruments.
• Ability to work in an industrial environment with exposure to noise, oils, lubricants, and mechanical equipment.
• Must wear required personal protective equipment and comply with all company safety procedures.
• Must be available to work overtime when required by operational demands.

EXPECTATIONS FOR SUCCESS

The Gearbox Mechanic – Assembly & Disassembly is expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, quality, productivity, and teamwork.

Success in this position requires the ability to complete mechanical work accurately, maintain consistent productivity, communicate technical concerns, and take ownership of assigned responsibilities.

Employees must demonstrate a willingness to expand their technical capabilities, assist in multiple areas of the repair operation, and contribute to the continuous improvement of Horsburgh & Scott's manufacturing and gearbox repair processes.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Horsburgh & Scott is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to legally protected characteristics, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.