Refuse Fleet Technician (Mechanic - trash truck)

Refuse Fleet Technician (Maintenance Mechanic)

The Refuse Fleet Technician (Maintenance Mechanic) diagnoses, repairs, and performs maintenance on a specialized fleet of heavy-duty trucks and equipment, such as rear-loaders, side-loaders, roll-off trucks, and transfer station equipment. This role requires expertise in diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and vehicle electronics, along with a strong focus on safety and compliance.

Pay is negotiable based on qualifications.

Works under the direction of the Collections Manager and Master Mechanic, but is allowed some latitude in carrying out the required maintenance functions.

Does not supervise others.

Essential Duties

• Perform diagnostic tests and repairs on mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems in solid waste vehicles and heavy equipment.
• Conduct routine inspections, oil and filter changes, brake adjustments, and other services to ensure vehicles operate safely and reliably.
• Use diagnostic tools and software to identify and fix issues with engines, transmissions, lift mechanisms, packer bodies, and compaction systems.
• Perform Department of Transportation (DOT) inspections and respond to emergency service calls for breakdowns in the field.
• Work on specific vehicle parts, including axles, suspensions, steering, brakes, and air conditioning systems.
• Use welding equipment for repairs and to fabricate or modify parts as needed.
• Lynchburg City utilizes a software program called FASTER to maintain detailed records of all repair and maintenance activities, parts used, and hours spent.
• Follow all safety protocols and procedures related to the job and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Proven experience as a diesel or heavy truck mechanic, preferably with prior experience in the waste management industry.
• Strong understanding of the methods, materials, tools, and techniques used in repairing heavy-duty diesel and gasoline equipment.
• The ability to use computerized diagnostic equipment and interpret electrical and hydraulic schematics.
• While not always required, ASE certifications (especially T1-T8 for trucks) are often preferred.
• A high school diploma or vocational school equivalent is required, along with a valid driver's license. "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required within the first 12 months of your employment (paid for by the City).
• The capacity to lift heavy objects (up to 100 - pounds), stand for extended periods, and work in confined or awkward spaces.
• Comfort working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and in a work environment that may be noisy, dirty, or muddy.

The work is typically performed in a maintenance shop or garage, but field repairs and road calls are also common. Mechanics are often exposed to a variety of environmental factors and hazards, including engine fumes, trash odors, chemicals, weather extremes, noise, and moving mechanical parts.

Minimum Education and Experience Required

High school diploma or GED equivalent and a minimum of five years of experience in vehicle and heavy equipment repairs and maintenance. Experience with municipal and winter operations is desirable. Any equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable.

Must possess a valid Virginia Driver's License Class B (CDL) with airbrake endorsement. Manufacturer's Dealership Training certificate in an Automotive Mechanic Specialty area(s), or have the ability to obtain one within 12 months of employment (paid for by the City).

Additional Requirements

Work requires significant physical effort. Work frequently requires talking, listening, standing, walking, bending/stooping and driving for extended periods. Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 100 pounds with the use of dollies and pallet jacks. The work requires regular and sustained periods of strenuous physical exertion both in the garage and on the road, requiring the ability to lift, carry, and position heavy objects by utilizing proper body mechanics and techniques. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. Work requires reaching with hands and arms, carrying/lifting (normally up to 100 pounds), and pushing/pulling.

The employee must have good vision to read general documentation and instruments for analytical purposes and be able to distinguish colors. Requires depth perception and close vision to operate vehicles and equipment. Requires manual dexterity in combination with eye-hand coordination for efficient operation and repair of equipment. Requires access to other Town departments.

Essential position functions require the ability to review documents for general understanding and analytical purposes and operate vehicles and motorized equipment. The physical demands listed are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.