Lead Diesel Mechanic

Job Title

Heavy-Duty Diesel Technician

Key Responsibilities

Perform advanced diagnostics, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair on heavy-duty waste collection vehicles and related equipment.

Diagnose engine, electrical, emissions, hydraulic, transmission, brake, aftertreatment, and drivetrain issues using appropriate diagnostic tools and software.

Identify root causes of equipment failures rather than relying on unnecessary parts replacement.

Perform repairs on diesel engines, including troubleshooting fuel, cooling, air intake, exhaust, and electronic engine-management systems.

Diagnose and repair DEF, DPF, EGR, SCR, and other emissions/aftertreatment systems.

Troubleshoot electrical systems, wiring, sensors, modules, charging systems, starting systems, and communication faults.

Diagnose and repair hydraulic systems commonly found on refuse and roll-off equipment.

Perform preventive maintenance inspections and identify developing mechanical issues before they result in breakdowns.

Complete DOT-related repairs and help ensure fleet equipment meets applicable safety and regulatory requirements.

Respond to breakdowns and assist with emergency repairs when necessary.

Review recurring equipment failures and help develop corrective maintenance strategies.

Work closely with operations to minimize downtime and return equipment to service quickly and safely.

Maintain accurate maintenance records, repair documentation, parts usage, and work-order information.

Help maintain a clean, safe, organized, and efficient shop environment.

Promote a strong safety culture and ensure repairs are completed correctly—not simply quickly.

Required Qualifications

Advanced diesel diagnostic and troubleshooting experience is REQUIRED.

Demonstrated ability to diagnose complex mechanical problems rather than relying solely on component replacement.

Proficiency with computerized diesel diagnostic software and scan tools.

Strong knowledge of heavy-duty electrical systems and ability to read wiring diagrams and electrical schematics.

Experience diagnosing diesel engine and emissions/aftertreatment systems.

Strong knowledge of hydraulic systems and hydraulic troubleshooting.

Experience with air brakes, suspension, steering, drivetrain, and related heavy-truck systems.

Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, service information, fault codes, and repair procedures.

Ability to independently prioritize repairs and make sound maintenance decisions.

Ability to coach and assist less-experienced technicians while remaining hands-on in the shop.

Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

Minimum 5 years of hands-on heavy-duty diesel maintenance and repair experience preferred.

Previous experience working on waste hauling, refuse, recycling, roll-off, front-load, rear-load, side-load, or similar vocational trucks strongly preferred.

Previous experience serving as a Lead Mechanic, Senior Diesel Technician, Shop Foreman, or similar leadership role is highly preferred.

CDL is preferred but not required unless otherwise specified by company policy.

ASE or manufacturer certifications are a plus.

Skills

Diesel Diagnostics

Troubleshooting

Heavy-Duty Vehicle Repair

Maintenance

Diagnostic Software

Scan Tools

Electrical Systems

Hydraulic Systems

Emissions Systems

Air Brakes

Suspension Systems

Steering Systems

Drivetrain Systems

Preventive Maintenance

DOT Compliance

Technical Manual Interpretation

Mentoring

Coaching

Shop Management

Safety Management

CAN Bus Diagnostics

Engine Management Systems

Wiring Diagrams

Electrical Schematics

Hydraulic Troubleshooting

Emissions Troubleshooting

Vocational Truck Maintenance

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.