Apprentice Equipment Technician

Western States Careers•Pasco, WA

About The Position

The Apprentice Equipment Technician performs basic maintenance and heavy equipment repair under the supervision of a Journeyman or Master level Technician. The role develops skills in diagnosing, removing, repairing, installing, disassembling, assembling, rebuilding, and reconditioning equipment according to manufacturer specifications. The apprentice supports safety practices, troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and repair across engine, powertrain, electrical, hydraulic, HVAC, cab, frame, and suspension systems. The role also includes continued technical training, use of service manuals and manufacturer-specific software, documentation of service work, and timely, friendly responses to client inquiries. This position is designated as safety-sensitive.

Requirements

Proof of a high school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
An associate degree in diesel technology, a trade school diploma, or one year of equivalent experience in a Caterpillar or similar environment with hydraulic, engine, and powertrain experience.
Valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record.
Appropriate technician-level tooling.
Ability to communicate in English by speaking, reading, comprehending, and writing.
Basic computer and typing skills.
Ability to obtain job-related certifications for specialty equipment such as forklifts, rigging, and overhead cranes.
Consistent attendance and timeliness, with the ability to work overtime with limited notice.
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships and to work within and promote Western States’ purpose, vision, and values.
Ability to stand for long periods and walk, sit, repeatedly climb stairs, reach above shoulder level, bend, stoop, push, pull, lean, and twist.
Ability to generate 97 ft./lbs. of force by pushing and pulling.
Ability to repeatedly lift up to 60 lbs. from the ground and place it on a shelf or platform up to 65 inches high.
Ability to carry up to 20 lbs. while repeatedly ascending and descending at least ten 8-inch stair steps.
Ability to repeatedly ascend and descend at least 10 rungs on various ladders.
Ability to assemble and disassemble various sizes of nuts and bolts while repeatedly bending, stooping, squatting, kneeling, or crouching.
Ability to work in environments with extreme temperatures and conditions and meet applicable safety requirements.

Responsibilities

Actively promote and follow safety policies, procedures, and standards; complete Job Hazard Analyses before job-related tasks; maintain clean work areas; and use required personal protective equipment.
Develop troubleshooting skills and assist with testing and repairs of equipment systems under Journeyman or Master Technician supervision.
Perform inspections, minor troubleshooting, and skill-appropriate preventative maintenance tasks independently when scheduled.
Perform engine preventative maintenance and inspect or repair external engine components.
Perform powertrain preventative maintenance, use additives appropriately, and take oil samples; assist with powertrain troubleshooting and repairs.
Understand basic electrical components and test, repair, or replace circuits and harnesses.
Perform basic hydraulic system maintenance, including fluid and filter replacement, system cleanout, relief valve pressure adjustment, and pump flow adjustment.
Troubleshoot and service HVAC systems, including evacuation, recharging, and component replacement when required.
Perform supervised troubleshooting and repair tasks on frame and suspension systems, and identify undercarriage components and measure track sag.
Participate in continued education and training in accordance with the Western States Equipment Technician Career Development Plan.
Learn to use service manuals and parts books to address technical issues and perform tasks according to printed procedures.
Develop familiarity with parts reusability guidelines and prepare complete, factual service reports for files and warranty purposes using STW.
Develop the ability to respond promptly and courteously to internal and external client inquiries.
Perform other duties as assigned while developing a focus on technician productivity.