Lead Diesel Mechanic & Shop Manager

Location: Duluth, MN

Compensation: $85,000 – $100,000 / year (Dependent on Experience)

Schedule: Full-Time | Monday–Friday | In-Person | Relocation Assistance Available

About the Opportunity

Are you a seasoned diesel mechanic ready to step into a leadership role—without leaving the shop floor behind?

Avenica has partnered with our customer—a locally owned, family-oriented hauling company serving the greater Duluth, MN area since 1952—to hire a Shop Manager / Tech Lead to oversee their growing fleet of 30+ trucks.

This is not a standard wrench-turning position. It’s a hands-on leadership role for an experienced diesel professional who can split their time between mentoring a growing team and diving into complex diagnostics and repairs. Our client will set you up for long-term success with a clear path into broader operations leadership.

Why Join Our Client?

• Competitive salary of $85,000–$100,000 per year based on experience.
• Relocation assistance available for the right candidate.
• Full benefits package: Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, HSA, and Life Insurance.
• 401(k) with company matching and retirement plan.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and employee discounts.
• Work with a stable, established company backed by over 70 years of community trust.
• Be a key player in a growing operation—your voice will shape how the shop runs.
• Clear path into broader management and operations leadership as the team expands.

  Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily maintenance and service needs for a fleet of 30+ trash and recycling trucks.
• Inspect, diagnose, and repair electrical, hydraulic, suspension, brake, and air systems across vehicles and equipment.
• Review driver-reported issues and determine whether to handle repairs in-house or outsource.
• Oversee and perform quick fixes as well as long-term mechanical solutions.
• Schedule repairs, maintenance timelines, and daily shop production.
• Inspect quality of outside/supplier repairs and rebuilds; assess structural damage and assign appropriate repair methods.
• Perform and oversee installation of camera systems, automated arm systems, and electrical components.
• Brief and lead technicians on daily service plans; provide hands-on training and mentorship.
• Collaborate with the in-house fabrication team on custom fixes and system builds.
• Conduct vehicle safety checks—employee and community safety is the team’s top priority.
• Purchase parts, equipment, and accessories; maintain in-house inventory and record keeping.
• Manage clerical maintenance records electronically and in hard copy.
• Maintain a clean, safe shop in compliance with Corporate/OSHA standards.
• Foster communication between shop staff and corporate leadership as the company grows.

  What You Bring

• 10+ years of experience in a diesel mechanic shop (diesel experience required).
• Proven experience managing or leading a technical team (strongly preferred).
• Strong electrical diagnostic and wiring skills: camera systems, wiring harnesses, sensors, and more.
• Advanced proficiency across key vehicle systems: chassis, refuse bodies, hydraulics, air brakes, engines, drivetrain, suspension, and HVAC.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve both routine and complex mechanical issues.
• Comfort working alongside a fabrication team and interpreting driver feedback accurately.
• Self-starter who can manage shifting priorities between hands-on work and team oversight.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and desktop computer use for record keeping.
• Strong communication skills for coordinating across shop staff, drivers, and leadership.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.

  Equal Employment Opportunity

  Avenica is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are respected and valued. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

  We believe that diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences strengthens our team and drives innovation. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.