Mechanic 1

Darling Ingredients; Wadesboro (NC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Darling Ingredients is seeking a Mechanic 1 to perform preventive maintenance and basic repairs on trailers, diesel and gasoline powered vehicles, and plant equipment under supervision. This role develops core fleet maintenance skills and supports more senior mechanics.

The position emphasizes safety, documentation, and teamwork, with ongoing training and potential travel for certification as needed; a valid driver's license and basic tools are required.

Qualifications

• 1+ year experience in vehicle maintenance or related field.
• Basic understanding of diesel and gasoline engine operation.
• Familiarity with fleet maintenance practices and documentation.
• Ability to use basic diagnostic tools.

Responsibilities

• Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on fleet vehicles and plant equipment.
• Review vehicle inspection reports and coordinate with senior mechanics.
• Conduct oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks.
• Inspect belts, hoses, batteries, and lights; replace as needed.
• Assist in diagnosing mechanical issues using basic tools.
• Maintain shop cleanliness and organize work areas.
• Document work performed and parts used in logs or systems.
• Support more experienced mechanics on complex repairs and diagnostics.
• Respond to roadside service calls when required.

Skills

Vehicle maintenance experience

Basic diagnostic tools usage

Hand tools and power tools

Fleet software familiarity

Detail oriented

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Basic hand tools

Power tools

Job description

Job Description

The Mechanic 1 is responsible for conducting routine maintenance and performing basic repairs on trailers, diesel, and gasoline powered vehicles and plant equipment. A Mechanic 1 is designed to develop core competencies in fleet equipment maintenance under the supervision of Mechanic 2, 3, and Fleet Managers.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

• Performs all preventive maintenance and repair work necessary on all fleet vehicles and plant vehicle, and plant equipment (wheel Loaders, Skid Steers, Man Lifts, Scissor Lifts, Backhoe, Lawn mowers, and Farm Tractors)
• Reviews driver vehicle inspection reports and repair inspections as directed by Mechanic 3s and/or the Fleet Manager
• Performs routine maintenance such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks
• Inspects and replaces basic components like belts, hoses, batteries, and lights
• Assists in diagnosing mechanical issues using basic diagnostic tools
• Maintains cleanliness and organization of the shop and work areas
• Documents work performed and parts used through maintenance logs or fleet management systems
• Supports Mechanic 2 and 3, under their supervision, with more complex repairs and diagnostics
• Responds to roadside service calls for disabled vehicles when required
• Responsible for being familiar with and observing all company safety rules and regulations; recognizes that safety is top company priority; attends regularly scheduled safety meetings
• Participate in ongoing training and certification programs (travel as needed)
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• Must have valid Driver's license
• 1+ year experience in vehicle maintenance or related technical field
• Must have personal basic tool set to perform preventative maintenance (based on location)
• Basic understanding of diesel and gasoline engine operation and components
• Experience with hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment
• Experience with basic computer tasks and use of fleet software
• Detail oriented; highly organized

Preferred Qualifications

• Class A CDL preferred, may be required based on requirements of the location
• Brake certification preferred, must be obtained within 6 months of hire date
• Vocational training preferred
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills
• Self-starter; self-motivated

The information contained in this job description is intended to describe the essential job functions required of those assigned to this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the job. Please note that management retains the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. The ability to competently perform all the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, demonstrated commitment to effective customer service delivery, integrity, and the ability to work productively as a member of a team or work group are basic requirements of all positions at Darling Ingredients.

About Us

We’re one of the world’s leading practitioners of circularity, transforming materials from the animal agriculture and food industries into valuable ingredients. Ingredients that nourish people, feed animals and crops, and fuel the world with renewable energy.

About The Team

Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser: https://www.eeoc.gov/poster of this job.