Seasonal Public Works Mechanic

Salary: $17.00 - $21.00 Hourly
Location : Johnston, IA
Job Type: Seasonal
Job Number: Pub Works Mec  Seasonal
Department: Public Works
Division: Roads, Bridges, Sidewalks
Opening Date: 02/23/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

Under general supervision of fleet mechanics, performs minor mechanical repairs on various kinds of gasoline and diesel powered equipment, and performs other public works tasks as needed or directed.

The following duties are normal for this position but dependent upon the level of skill, ability, and experience of the individual. They are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. This position will assist 2 full time Public Works Mechanics with their job duties relating to maintenance and repair of City fleet vehicles and equipment.

This is a seasonal position
Assist Public Works mechanics to Inspect, diagnose and repair mechanical defects in automobiles, trucks, graders, rollers, street sweepers, mowers, generator sets, all types of emergency vehicles/apparatus, and other mechanical equipment. Performs preventative maintenance for city fleet.

Assist Public Works mechanics tear down motors and perform general overhauling; grinding valves; repairing transmissions, clutches, differentials, carburetors, fuel injection systems, alternators, universal joints, sirens and other police related electrical systems, and hydraulic systems; adjusts brakes.

Assist Public Works mechanics to install and repair municipal snow plows and winter maintenance equipment.

Assist Public Works mechanics with installing auxiliary equipment, batteries, tires, wiring, lighting, door glass, door handles, and brakes.

Assist Public Works mechanics maintain records of repairs made, work orders and time worked.

Assist Public Works mechanics works in the field and in the shop as assigned.

TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must have a valid Iowa Drivers License
  • Drug Screen and Background check required
  • Position requires work to be performed in various outdoor environmental conditions
  • Steel Toed shoes are required

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the principles and operation of gasoline and diesel engines.
• Knowledge of the methods, tools, equipment and materials used in the repair and maintenance of motorized construction equipment.
• Knowledge of welding methods and materials.
• Knowledge of cutting torch operation and use. oxy/acetylene.
• Ability to operate mechanical testing and repair devices for servicing and repairing equipment.
• Ability to estimate time and materials needed to complete a job.
• Ability to read mechanical diagrams.
• Ability to utilize automotive computer diagnostic equipment

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF WORK

Job requires constant standing, walking and frequent stooping, laying, crawling, kneeling, crouching, reaching and grasping of objects such as parts and components. Frequent moving, lifting of tools, objects requiring force and physical effort of 50 lbs. or more. Regular exposure to noise, fumes, odors and related environmental conditions. Considerable exposure to bodily injury working with moving parts, electricity; requires concentrated eye/foot coordination, motor coordination, manual and finger dexterity.

Shift: Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Hours may vary and may be subject to be on call 24 hours a day during emergency and / or weather conditions.

REQUIRED PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES

Driving, climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, walking, lifting, reaching, talking, hearing, grasping, and finger dexterity, repetitive motions.

LANGUAGE ABILITY AND INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION

Requires basic human relations skills in talking and/or signaling people to convey basic program information. Receiving and acting upon the instructions or orders of another person. Requires the ability to speak the English language using proper emphasis, variations and tense in the exchange of information. Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with contractors and the general public.

VISION REQUIREMENTS

Requires clarity of vision 20' or less and 20' or more working with gauges, meters and related equipment requiring precise measurements and depth perception.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Work is performed in an environment with undesirable conditions: exposure to extreme heat and cold, rain and snow, noise, dust, fumes, moving parts, electrical shock, burns and toxic agents. Occupational hazards are those generally associated with regular direct exposure to moving machinery i.e. saws, backhoes, loaders, aerial lifts, asphalt and concrete paving work, leading to cuts, bruises, burns, strains, backaches and potentially more serious injury.

OTHER DAILY DUTIES WITH OVERSIGHT FROM FLEET MECHANICS

- performing diagnostics on equipment and associated systems to identify and make needed repairs on items such as: hydraulic systems including valves, pumps, cylinders
- overhauling components on gasoline and diesel equipment
- completing repair work and preventative…