Apprentice Equipment Technician - Mining

Western States Equipment•Pocatello, ID
•Onsite

About The Position

Since 1956, Western States Equipment Company has been a leading employer across Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Montana, and Wyoming. We are driven by our mission of solving our customers’ toughest challenges, guided by our core values of Safety, Excellence, Teamwork, Integrity, Accountability, and Innovation. By joining Western States, you commit to upholding these values while contributing to our purpose of building our communities for a better tomorrow. Safety and our Customer Care Commitment remain foundational to our mission and the standard by which we measure our success.

Requirements

  • Basic computer/typing skills.
  • Ability to obtain job related certifications for any specialty equipment such as but not limited to forklifts, rigging and overhead cranes, etc.
  • Developing knowledge of manufacturer specific software. (SIS, ET, and STW)
  • Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Consistent attendance and timeliness with the ability to work overtime with limited notice.
  • Working within and promoting Western States’ purpose, vision and values.
  • Proof of high school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
  • Associates degree in diesel technology, trade school diploma, or one-year equivalent experience in a Caterpillar or similar environment with hydraulic, engine and powertrain experience required.
  • Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record required.
  • Appropriate technician level tooling required.
  • Must be able to communicate (speak, read, comprehend, write in English).

Responsibilities

  • Develops basic troubleshooting skills on various engine and equipment systems under the supervision of a Journeyman or Master Level Technician.
  • Assists with skill level appropriate testing while comparing data to specifications to determine if the system is working as designed.
  • Assists with repairs and diagnosing machine failures according to WSECO’s time requirement guidelines.
  • Performs experience level appropriate tasks independently, including inspections and minor troubleshooting, when scheduled for required preventative maintenance service.
  • Ability to independently complete engine preventative maintenance and inspect/repair external engine components.
  • Performs preventative maintenance duties on powertrain including proper additive use and oil sampling. Basic troubleshooting and repair include but not limited to identifying leaks, replacing seals/hub bearings and races, adjusting clutch brakes, removing/inspecting axles, and identifying u-joint and yoke series.
  • Basic understanding and assisted replacement of various brake systems.
  • Understands basic electrical components with the ability to test, repair, and replace circuits. Includes but not limited to Deutsch and Ampseal Connectors, 6/12/24 battery voltage systems, and ability to repair/replace varies harness types.
  • Ability to independently perform basic hydraulic systems maintenance to include but not limited to fluid and filter replacement, full system cleanout, adjusting relief valve pressures, and pump flows.
  • Troubleshoot and service HVAC systems to include evacuating, recharging, and replacing components when required.
  • Basic understanding of general mechanical/electrical cab functions pertaining to operator interfaces.
  • Under supervision of Journeyman or Master level technician performs general tasks in troubleshooting and repair of various frame and suspension systems including tracks, track pads, drive sprockets, and idlers.
  • Ability to identify undercarriage components and perform track sag measurements.
  • Participates in continued education and training initiatives as outlined in the Western States Equipment Technician Career Development Plan. (TCDP)
  • Learns how to utilize service manuals (STW, SIS and parts books) to address technical issues and perform all required tasks within technician level abilities, in accordance to printed procedures.
  • Develops familiarity with parts reusability guidelines.
  • Develops ability to write and read complete, factual service reports for files and warranty purposes using STW for timely work order closing.
  • Develops skill sets to address all inquiries in a prompt and friendly manner in an effort to meet or exceed internal/external client expectations.
  • Performs other duties as assigned while developing a mindset for technician productivity.
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