Lead Mechanic; HEM

Overview

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency that plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. WSDOT maintains over 20,000 lane miles of state highway, 4,100 bridges, the world’s longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation.

WSDOT is hiring a Heavy Equipment Lead Mechanic 3 to join the Olympia Region Transportation Equipment Fund (TEF) team. The Lead Mechanic will oversee the outfitting and fabrication of new equipment and manage statewide Road Warriors and Incident Response vehicle programs.

• Lead Heavy Equipment Mechanics in the daily performance of assigned work on vehicles over 15,000 GVW.
• Plan, schedule, and direct operations, maintenance, and repair activities.
• Coordinate equipment compliance, preparation, repair, and disposal with fellow Equipment Technician Leads and Supervisor.
• Perform Preventative Maintenance (PM), inspections, diagnoses, and major and minor mechanical repairs on a wide variety of WSDOT equipment and vehicles.
• Fabricate weld brackets, attachments, and specialized equipment attachments.
• Operate computer to maintain a fleet equipment management system for work orders.

• Advanced Heavy Equipment Diagnostics & Repair:
  Lead others in diagnosing, repairing, and overhauling heavy‑duty equipment systems, including diesel and gas engines, power trains, hydraulic systems, electronic fuel systems, steering and suspension, and braking systems. Proficient in electronic diagnostic tools.
• Preventive Maintenance & Equipment Reliability:
  Perform preventive maintenance on small, large, and heavy equipment used in highway maintenance and engineering. Minimize downtime and extend service life.
• Safety Awareness & Compliance:
  Knowledge of occupational safety requirements and commitment to safe work practices in shop and field environments. Implement safety programs and Pre‑Activity Safety Plans (PASP).
• Teamwork & Leadership:
  Lead and mentor lower‑level mechanics. Strong communication skills and experience contributing to a respectful and inclusive workplace.
• Technical & Administrative Proficiency:
  Proficient in Fleet Equipment Management software and standard computer applications (Excel, Word, Outlook). Maintain accurate repair and maintenance documentation.
• Growth Mindset:
  Demonstrate a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service‑Oriented:
  Actively meet the needs of others.

• Unrestricted valid Washington driver’s license to operate vehicles.
• Ability to obtain Class A CDL with N endorsement within 6 months of hire.
• Basic hand tools and ability to maneuver and transport materials up to 50 pounds.
• Work weekends and holidays and respond to non‑scheduled call‑out emergencies 24 / 7.

• Current Washington Class A CDL with N endorsement and no air‑brake restrictions.
• ASE certifications in automotive, light, or heavy equipment repair; DOT Brake Certification.
• Experience applying professional automotive repair practices in a service or fleet maintenance environment.
• Proficiency with shop tools such as welders, drill presses, grinders, hoists, jacks, and air tools.

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Include a résumé, cover letter, and contact details for at least three references. Click the “APPLY” button to proceed.

Equal Opportunity Employer
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value an inclusive environment and encourage applicants of all backgrounds. Persons with disabilities who need assistance in the application process may contact the specified recruiter.