Heavy Equipment Mechanic Apprentice

Compensation Grade: AT19

Salary Range: $21.01-$33.26

Opening Date: May 29, 2026

Closing Date: June 13, 2026

Please Note:

All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.

This is a non‑career, term job. Serves in the Engineering and Maintenance Department at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Participates in a state‑approved Trades Apprentice Employment Program to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to become a licensed, journey‑level Heavy Equipment Mechanic. Performs progressively complex and responsible equipment maintenance and repair work as knowledge, skills and abilities increase.

Training received is both on‑the‑job and in the classroom. Performs related functions.

Learns to determine causes of operating problems and repair heavy equipment, from elementary to fully proficient levels, as consistent with the Trades Apprentice Employment Program.

Learns to proficiently use manuals, technical guides, electrical diagrams and schematics, various hand and power tools, instruments, and devices used by the trade.

Assists full performance (journey) level Heavy Equipment Mechanics to assemble and transport tools and materials to the job site, and at the job site to complete the work including handling of tools and cleaning up.

Guided by a full performance (journey) level Heavy Equipment Mechanic, learns to perform preventive maintenance, determine causes of operating problems, trace and locate defects, and make repairs and modifications to mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems for light and heavy mobile gasoline and diesel‑fueled equipment.

Performs other tasks as assigned including storing and stocking materials and equipment, removing debris, and cleaning shop/work areas, shop‑keeping tasks common to the trade requiring elementary to fully proficient levels of Heavy Equipment Mechanic knowledge and skill consistent with the Trades Apprentice Employment Program.

Learns and applies knowledge of EPA regulations for proper handling of refrigerants, and other codes and regulations pertinent to the trade or airport environment.

Assists in preparing and maintaining work orders, trouble calls, and preventive maintenance; utilizing the Airports Authority's computerized work order system.

Drives a pick‑up truck or similar vehicle (with tools, parts, etc.) on the airport complex, to landside and airside, and to/from suppliers with tools, parts, etc.

Assists in the diagnosis and repair of Plug‑in Hybrid (EV) and Gas Hybrid vehicles.

Performs other duties as assigned.

• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.
• Ability to learn bodies of knowledge and gain skills in the Equipment Maintenance trade consistent with the schedule for progression as an Apprentice in the Trades Apprentice Employment Program.
• Ability to drive a pick‑up truck and learn to use a similar vehicle (with tools, parts, etc.).
• Ability to work safely and knowledge of safety rules, regulations, and procedures needed.
• Ability to speak and write effectively.
• Skill in using a computer, computerized work order, and time and attendance system.
• Ability to successfully complete an Airports Authority background investigation.

• Plug‑in Hybrid (EV) and Gas Hybrid Vehicle diagnosis and repair.

A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED) at the time of hire.

Completion of at least one trades course (such as Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, Automotive Mechanics) in high school OR be currently enrolled in a degree or certificate program at a trades school accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Labor.

• A state driver's license in good standing.
• Depending on assignment, may be required to obtain a Class B Commercial Driver's License within 90 days of hire, promotion, or placement in the job.

Work is physically demanding and requires stooping, crouching or otherwise positioning self to…