Mechanic Apprentice

Village of Villa Park; Villa Park (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

IMRF pension

Paid vacation

Job summary

The Village of Villa Park is seeking a Mechanic Apprentice to learn by doing in our fleet maintenance shop. You’ll assist with repairs on police squads, fire equipment, backhoes, loaders, street sweepers, tractors and generators under the guidance of seasoned mechanics.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma, 18+, one year of automotive repair experience or equivalent training, a valid Illinois driver’s license, and CDL Class B with air brake/tanker endorsements or the ability to obtain

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and at least 18 years old.
• At least 1 year of automotive repair/maintenance experience or equivalent training.
• Valid Illinois Driver’s License.
• CDL Class B with air brake and tanker endorsements — or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire.
• Ability to pass background, physical, and driving record checks.

Responsibilities

• Assist in repairing and maintaining vehicles and equipment listed (police squads, fire equipment, backhoes, loaders, street sweepers, tractors, generators).
• Perform routine maintenance (oil changes, fluid checks, lubrication, tire work, brake adjustments).
• Use scan tools/diagnostics to identify issues and assist in repairs.
• Help order parts and materials for ongoing work.
• Inspect/replace batteries, belts, hoses, and other components.
• Assist with repairs of brakes, electrical systems, transmissions, fuel systems, hydraulics, and more.
• Participate in road tests and emergency repair responses.
• Maintain a clean, safe shop environment.
• Take on additional duties as needed.

Skills

Automotive repair

Mechanical knowledge

Problem solving

Teamwork

Customer focus

Education

High school diploma

CDL Class B incl. air brake & tanker

Tools

Scan tools

Diagnostic equipment

Job description

Now Hiring: Mechanic Apprentice

Are you passionate about engines, tools, and hands‑on problem‑solving? Ready to kick‑start your mechanical career while learning from seasoned professionals? The Village of Villa Park is looking for a motivated Mechanic Apprentice to join our team and grow into a skilled automotive and equipment technician.

This is your opportunity to work with an experienced crew, get exposure to a wide variety of vehicles and heavy equipment, and build the foundation for a long‑term career in the mechanic trade.

What You’ll Do

As a Mechanic Apprentice, you’ll roll up your sleeves and learn by doing. Working alongside our Mechanic Foreman and senior mechanics, you will:

• Assist in repairing and maintaining everything from police squads and fire equipment to backhoes, loaders, street sweepers, tractors, and generators.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks like oil changes, fluid checks, chassis lubrication, tire repair and replacement, brake adjustments, and light repairs.
• Use scan tools and diagnostic equipment to identify vehicle issues and support repair solutions.
• Help order parts, supplies, and materials needed for ongoing work.
• Inspect and replace batteries, belts, hoses, shocks, and other components.
• Assist with repairs of brakes, electrical systems, transmissions, fuel systems, hydraulics, and more.
• Perform road tests to ensure vehicles are safe and road‑ready; respond to calls for disabled vehicles and assist with emergency repairs.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well‑organized shop environment.
• Take on additional duties as needed — every day brings variety and hands‑on learning.

What You Bring

We’re looking for someone who is eager to learn, dependable, and excited to build real skills in the mechanic trade.

You must have:

• A high school diploma or equivalent and at least 18 years old.
• At least one year of experience in automotive repair/maintenance OR equivalent training.
• A valid Illinois Driver’s License.
• CDL Class B with air brake and tanker endorsements — or the ability to obtain within 12 months of hire.
• The ability to pass a background check, physical exam, and driving record review.

To succeed here, you’ll also need:

• Practical knowledge of automotive and mechanical systems.
• The ability to diagnose and troubleshoot basic mechanical issues.
• Familiarity with tools, safety practices, and repair terminology.
• Strong communication skills and a customer‑focused attitude.
• The ability to work well with coworkers and the public — patience and professionalism are key.
• Good judgment, problem‑solving abilities, and the desire to grow in the field.

Physical Requirements

This is an active, hands‑on role. You’ll frequently lift, walk, climb, kneel, crawl, and move equipment. You should be comfortable lifting up to 50lbs regularly and up to 100lbs occasionally with assistance and working both indoors and outdoors in varying conditions.

What to Expect

• Work primarily in our fully equipped fleet maintenance shop.
• Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required.
• Must be available for emergency call‑outs.

Why Join Us? (Benefits & Perks)

The Village of Villa Park offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your well‑being, career development, and financial security. Benefits typically include:

• Health, dental, vision and life insurance with generous employer contributions.
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension participation.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave to support work‑life balance. One week of vacation following the first 60 days!
• Professional training and advancement opportunities, pathway to Journeyman Mechanic.
• Stable, long‑term employment with a supportive team and positive work environment.
• Employee assistance programs and other wellness resources.
• Tool, equipment, and safety gear provided — so you can focus on learning and doing great work.