Diesel Mechanic

Overview

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the greater New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets with a rail-served landfill in Ohio. IWS is committed to delivering high-quality waste, recycling and environmental services, while prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers and communities. We cater to a diverse range of industrial, medical and commercial/residential customers.

Founded in 1998, IWS has grown over the years through acquisitions, many of which were family-owned businesses that remain a part of our team today. We’re proud to combine the resources of a large company with the values and care of a family-run business.

Essential Job Summary:

The Level B Fleet Mechanic/Technician is a journeyman-level role responsible for independent diagnosis and repair of most mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues on refuse trucks, heavy trucks/tractors, trailers, and heavy equipment. This role also mentors Level C technicians, supports road calls, and ensures high uptime and DOT compliance for the fleet.

Essential Job Functions: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other minor duties may be assigned.

Diagnostics & Repair

• Independently diagnose and repair:
  • Diesel and gasoline engines (intake, fuel, cooling, aftertreatment/emissions components).
  • Drivetrain components including clutches, transmissions, differentials, PTOs, and drive lines.
  • Air and hydraulic brake systems, ABS, and suspension components.
  • Hydraulic systems on refuse equipment (packer bodies, arms, cylinders, pumps, valves, and hose routing).
  • Electrical systems including starting/charging, multiplex wiring, sensors, and lighting.

Preventive Maintenance & Compliance

• Perform and sign off on DOT-compliant inspections and PMs, ensuring all safety-critical items are addressed and documented.
• Accurately interpret and close out DVIR/eDVIR defects; communicate recurring defects to leadership for root-cause analysis.
• Use OEM and aftermarket diagnostic software, service bulletins, and wiring schematics to troubleshoot complex issues.

Road Calls & Operational Support

• Respond to road calls and breakdowns throughout the NYC tri-state area; perform safe temporary or permanent repairs to return vehicles to service or coordinate towing as needed.
• Communicate clearly with dispatch, supervisors, and drivers on repair status and estimated completion times.

Mentorship, Training & Documentation

• Guide and mentor Level C technicians on best practices, safety, troubleshooting, and proper repair methods.
• Complete work orders thoroughly, capturing complaint, cause, correction, labor hours, and parts used.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives for PM compliance, repeat repair reduction, and parts standardization.

Requirements and Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 3–5+ years hands-on experience as a diesel, truck, or heavy equipment mechanic/technician, including diagnostics and major component replacement.
• Valid CDL Class B (or higher) with air brake endorsement strongly preferred to perform road tests and move equipment on public roads within NY/NJ/CT.
• Demonstrated proficiency with hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret OEM service manuals, wiring diagrams, and hydraulic schematics.
• Experience in refuse/solid waste, municipal, or LTL/heavy trucking fleet operating in urban environments preferred.
• ASE certifications in Medium/Heavy Truck (T series) or Truck Equipment (E series); working toward Master status preferred.
• Basic welding and cutting skills (MIG, stick, torch) for brackets, hangers, and minor body fabrication preferred.
• Familiarity with computerized fleet maintenance and parts inventory systems preferred.

Additional Information

This job description is intended to be an accurate representation of the general functions of the job, rather than exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or experience. Other duties may be assigned, requested, or required. Aspects of the job may be altered without notice.

Interstate Waste Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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