Junior Diesel Fleet Technician — Grow to Lead Technician

Beacon Recycling, Inc.; Grand Rapids (MI); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ASE certification support

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Beacon Recycling is seeking a Junior Fleet Maintenance Technician in Grand Rapids, MI to assist with maintenance, repair, and servicing of our Class 8 trucks, trailers, and heavy equipment. You will learn Beacon’s Limble CMMS, build diagnostic skills, and support fleet operations across Michigan locations, advancing toward independent technician status.

You will perform PMs, basic repairs, and DOT-related tasks under supervision, while maintaining safety and cleanliness in the shop and

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical school or vocational training in automotive/diesel mechanics preferred.
• Currently enrolled in or completed diesel mechanics program a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on trucks and trailers according to manufacturer specs.
• Change oil and filters; lubricate chassis and grease fittings.
• Inspect air brake systems and rotate tires; check all fluid levels.

Skills

Diesel engines

Hand & power tools

Technical manuals & diagrams

Electrical systems

Mechanical troubleshooting

Willingness to learn

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Technical/vocational training in automotive/diesel

Currently enrolled or completed diesel mechanics program

Tools

Limble CMMS

Diagnostic tools

Multimeters

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Junior Fleet Maintenance Technician

Intern Technical GRAND RAPIDS, MI, US

12 days ago Requisition ID: 1033

POSITION SUMMARY

The Junior Fleet Maintenance Technician is an entry-level to intermediate technician responsible for assisting with the maintenance, repair, and servicing of Beacon’s fleet of Class 8 trucks, trailers, containers, and heavy equipment. This position focuses on building technical skills through hands-on work under the guidance of the Senior Fleet Maintenance Technician while performing routine maintenance, basic repairs, and supporting fleet operations across all Michigan locations.

This role provides an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual to develop diesel mechanics expertise, gain experience with commercial fleet operations, and advance their career in heavy truck maintenance. The Junior Fleet Maintenance Technician will learn Beacon’s maintenance systems (Limble CMMS), develop diagnostic skills, and progress toward becoming a fully independent fleet technician.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Preventive Maintenance Services (40% of Role)

• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) services on trucks and trailers according to manufacturer specifications
• Change oil and filters (engine oil, fuel filters, air filters, transmission filters)
• Lubricate chassis components and grease fittings per maintenance schedule
• Inspect and service air brake systems (adjust brakes, drain air tanks, check for leaks)
• Check and top off all fluid levels (coolant, transmission, differential, power steering, DEF)
• Inspect belts, hoses, and fluid lines for wear or damage
• Rotate tires and check tire pressure on trucks and trailers
• Inspect lighting systems and replace bulbs as needed
• Clean and service batteries, check connections and charging systems
• Complete PM checklists thoroughly and document work in Limble CMMS
• Assist Senior Fleet Technician with complex PM services

Basic Repairs & Troubleshooting (30% of Role)

• Replace worn brake components (shoes, pads, drums, rotors) under supervision
• Repair or replace lights, switches, and basic electrical components
• Replace air lines, fittings, and brake chambers
• Repair trailer doors, latches, and landing gear
• Replace worn suspension components (springs, bushings, shackles)
• Perform minor welding repairs on trailers and containers
• Replace damaged or worn tires and perform wheel mounting/dismounting
• Assist with diagnostics using scan tools and basic test equipment
• Repair hydraulic hoses and fittings on containers and equipment
• Complete basic troubleshooting under guidance of Senior Fleet Technician

DOT Inspections & Compliance (15% of Role)

• Assist with DOT annual inspections on trucks and trailers
• Perform pre-inspection walk-arounds and identify obvious defects
• Learn DOT inspection criteria and FMCSA regulations
• Complete inspection checklists thoroughly
• Address defects found during inspections
• Ensure all safety equipment is functional (fire extinguishers, triangles, first aid)
• Maintain cleanliness of trucks and trailers
• Support roadside inspection preparation

Shop Operations & Housekeeping (10% of Role)

• Maintain clean, organized work area at all times
• Properly store tools and equipment after use
• Keep shop floor clear of hazards and debris
• Organize and maintain parts inventory in Grand Rapids stockroom
• Assist with receiving and stocking parts shipments
• Clean and maintain shop equipment (lifts, jacks, air compressors, welders)
• Dispose of waste oil, fluids, and filters properly
• Follow all environmental and safety protocols for waste handling

Administrative Support & Documentation (5% of Role)

• Document all work performed in Limble CMMS accurately
• Record parts used on work orders
• Report completed work to Senior Fleet Technician and Fleet & Driver Manager
• Communicate equipment status to dispatch when requested
• Maintain accurate time records and work logs
• Assist with parts ordering as directed
• Learn to navigate Limble CMMS for work order management

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all Beacon safety policies and procedures at all times
• Wear required PPE (safety glasses, steel-toed boots, gloves, hearing protection)
• Practice lockout/tagout procedures on all equipment
• Report all safety hazards, unsafe conditions, and near misses immediately
• Maintain 5S standards in work area
• Attend all safety meetings and training sessions
• Report all injuries and accidents immediately
• Work safely around moving equipment and vehicles
• Never take shortcuts that compromise safety

Learning & Development

• Actively pursue technical knowledge and skill development
• Ask questions and seek guidance from Senior Fleet Technician
• Study manufacturer service manuals and technical materials
• Work toward ASE certifications (company-supported)
• Attend training courses and webinars as assigned
• Practice diagnostic and troubleshooting techniques
• Learn proper use of diagnostic equipment and software
• Accept constructive feedback and apply it to improve performance
• Take initiative to expand capabilities and responsibilities

QUALIFICATIONS

Education • High School Diploma or equivalent required • Technical school or vocational training in automotive/diesel mechanics preferred • Currently enrolled in or completed diesel mechanics program a plus

Work Experience • 1-3 years of experience in automotive repair, diesel mechanics, or heavy equipment maintenance • Entry-level candidates with strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn considered • Military vehicle maintenance experience valuable • Agricultural or construction equipment experience helpful • Previous experience in trucking, logistics, or fleet operations a plus

Certifications & Licenses (Required or Preferred) • Valid Driver’s License required • CDL Class B or willingness to obtain preferred • ASE certifications preferred but not required (company will support obtaining) • Forklift certification or willingness to be certified • OSHA 10-hour safety training preferred

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Technical Skills • Basic understanding of diesel engines and vehicle systems • Familiarity with hand and power tools • Ability to read and follow technical manuals and diagrams • Basic electrical knowledge (12V systems) • Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability • Willingness to learn air brake systems, hydraulics, and diagnostics • Basic welding skills or willingness to learn • Computer literacy for CMMS and parts lookup systems

Work Habits & Attributes • Strong work ethic and reliability • Attention to detail and quality workmanship • Ability to follow directions and procedures • Willingness to learn and accept coaching • Self-motivated and takes initiative • Team player who supports others • Professional and respectful demeanor • Punctual and dependable attendance • Positive attitude toward challenges

Physical Capabilities • Ability to lift 50 lbs frequently and up to 75 lbs occasionally • Able to stand, walk, bend, squat, kneel, and crawl for extended periods • Manual dexterity to use hand and power tools • Ability to work in confined spaces (under trucks, inside trailers) • Ability to work at heights (ladders, platforms) • Good vision for detail work and safety • Hearing ability to work safely around equipment

Communication & Teamwork • Ability to communicate clearly with supervisors and team members • Receptive to feedback and coaching • Asks questions when unsure rather than guessing • Reports problems and issues promptly • Works cooperatively with others • Maintains professional relationships with drivers and dispatch

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical Demands • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs frequently with proper lifting techniques • Standing and walking for up to 8-10 hours per day • Frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, and crawling • Working in awkward positions under vehicles • Using hand and power tools requiring grip strength • Climbing ladders and working on elevated platforms • Good hand-eye coordination for precise work

Working Conditions • Work primarily performed in shop environment with some outdoor work • Exposure to diesel fumes, oils, greases, and cleaning chemicals • Exposure to loud noise (hearing protection required) • Work in varying temperatures (hot shop in summer, cold in winter) • Occasional evening or weekend work as needed • Potential for emergency call-ins for breakdowns • Shop environment with moving equipment and vehicles • May be assigned to different Beacon locations as needed

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

Must be able to learn and use: • Hand tools (wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers) • Power tools (impact guns, drills, grinders, air chisels) • Shop equipment (floor jacks, jack stands, lifts, presses) • Basic welding equipment (MIG welder) • Grease guns and fluid service equipment • Tire changing equipment • Basic diagnostic tools (multimeters, pressure gauges) • Air compressors and pneumatic tools • Cleaning equipment (pressure washers, parts washers)

PERFORMANCE REVIEW

Performance will be reviewed quarterly for the first year, then semi-annually thereafter. Reviews will focus on technical skill development, work quality, safety compliance, and professional growth. Success in this role requires consistent improvement in capabilities, strong work ethic, and commitment to learning.

REPORTS TO

• Direct Supervisor: Senior Fleet Maintenance Technician (day-to-day direction and training) • Indirect Supervisor: Fleet & Driver Manager (overall performance accountability)

KEY RELATIONSHIPS

• Senior Fleet Maintenance Technician: Primary mentor and technical instructor • Fleet & Driver Manager: Performance management, career development • Maintenance Coordinator: Cross-functional coordination on equipment and resources • Other Maintenance Technicians: Team collaboration and knowledge sharing • Drivers: Understanding vehicle issues, feedback on repairs • Dispatch: Communication on vehicle availability and repair status • Parts Vendors: Learning parts identification and ordering (under supervision)

BEACON RECYCLING - EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Beacon Recycling is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, or any other legally protected status.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the job. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

✓ MECHANICAL APTITUDE You have a natural curiosity about how things work and enjoy figuring out mechanical problems. You’re comfortable with tools and eager to learn diesel systems.

✓ STRONG WORK ETHIC You show up on time, work hard throughout the day, and take pride in doing quality work. You don’t cut corners or look for easy ways out.

✓ COACHABLE & HUMBLE You’re willing to admit when you don’t know something and ask for help. You accept feedback positively and apply it to improve your skills.

✓ SAFETY-MINDED You never compromise safety for speed. You follow procedures, wear PPE, and look out for your own safety and that of your teammates.

✓ TEAM PLAYER You help others when needed, share knowledge, and contribute to a positive shop culture. You understand that everyone wins when the team succeeds.

✓ GROWTH-ORIENTED You’re committed to becoming an expert technician. You study on your own time, pursue certifications, and constantly look for ways to improve.

✓ DEPENDABLE Your teammates and supervisors can count on you. You’re there when scheduled, complete assignments, and follow through on commitments.

✓ PROBLEM-SOLVER When you encounter obstacles, you think creatively and seek solutions rather than giving up or making excuses.

✓ STRUCTURED TRAINING PROGRAM Learn from experienced technicians with a clear development path. We invest in your growth through hands-on training, mentorship, and formal education.

✓ ASE CERTIFICATION SUPPORT Beacon pays for ASE exam fees and study materials. We want you to become a certified professional and will support your journey.

✓ MODERN FLEET & EQUIPMENT Work on a diverse fleet of Class 8 trucks, trailers, and heavy equipment. Gain experience with multiple manufacturers and systems.

✓ CAREER ADVANCEMENT Clear path from Junior Technician to Senior Technician to Lead/Supervisor. Beacon is growing from $115M to $300M+ - opportunities will expand.

✓ COMPETITIVE PAY & BENEFITS Strong starting wage with regular increases based on skill development and certifications. Comprehensive benefits package from day one.

✓ STABLE INDUSTRY Recycling and waste management are essential industries. Beacon has been in business for decades and is positioned for continued growth.

✓ FAMILY-OWNED CULTURE Work for a family-owned company that values long-term relationships over short-term profits. We take care of our people.

✓ VARIED WORK No two days are exactly the same. You’ll work on different types of equipment and face new challenges regularly - never boring!