Diesel Mechanic Trainee Entry Level

Ryder•Columbia, SC
•Onsite

About The Position

Ryder is hiring an entry-level Diesel Technician Trainee in Columbia, South Carolina. This paid training position offers a path to become a Ryder Diesel Mechanic Technician, with weekly hourly pay of $23.00 and pay increases as trainees progress through program stages. The role works Monday through Friday, with weekends off, on the second shift from 3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Ryder provides state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and equipment for maintaining heavy-duty vehicles. The trainee performs vehicle movements, washing, detailing, fueling, inspections, facility upkeep, and minor maintenance tasks while following shop safety policies and procedures. The role also includes completing hands-on and online training and assessments through Ryder’s Technician Training Development Program, covering service island work, preventive maintenance, tire and wheel service, and heavy-duty electrical and brake systems. A CDL must be obtained within six months after hire.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Zero to one year of mechanical experience working with and maintaining primarily diesel engines preferred.
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Proficiency in written and verbal English communication.
  • Demonstrated customer service skills.
  • Strong technical aptitude and ability to learn to use and maintain equipment and machinery preferred.
  • Ability to quickly troubleshoot and resolve problems preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
  • Ability to professionally represent Ryder and engage with Ryder employees and customers.
  • Demonstrated time management and priority-setting skills.
  • Track record of performance and good attendance.
  • Strong personal accountability and a proven track record of achieving desired results.
  • Basic computer skills and competency in a Microsoft Office environment.
  • Beginner-level knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance preferred.
  • Beginner-level knowledge of shop management systems preferred.
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver License preferred.
  • Must be able to obtain a CDL within six months after hire.
  • Must pass a Ryder drug test, DOT physical, Ryder road test, and Ryder background and motor vehicle check, including drug and alcohol verification from previous employers for the last three years.
  • This is a DOT safety-regulated and safety-sensitive position; minimum age requirements and work hours are determined by state law.

Nice To Haves

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Zero to one year of mechanical experience working with and maintaining primarily diesel engines.
  • Strong technical aptitude and ability to learn to use and maintain equipment and machinery.
  • Ability to quickly troubleshoot and resolve problems.
  • Beginner-level knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
  • Beginner-level knowledge of shop management systems.
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver License.

Responsibilities

  • Move heavy-duty vehicles into or out of the yard, wash bay, service shop, or rental shop.
  • Wash and detail vehicles manually or with automated equipment.
  • Fuel diesel, natural gas, and hybrid vehicles according to shop safety policies and procedures.
  • Record fuel activity and maintain fuel and DEF inventories and reconciliation, including using handheld devices to identify customers and required services.
  • Perform multi-point inspections on inbound units as required, including checking tire pressure and tread, fluid levels, lights, washing windows, changing tires, and inspecting truck refrigeration units.
  • Report service or driver issues to the shop.
  • Maintain the fuel island area to Six Sigma standards and policies, perform some facility maintenance, and complete minor maintenance tasks assigned by a supervisor.
  • Attend and complete all Technician Training Development Program requirements and assessments, including hands-on and online training and learned tasks.
  • Complete Service Island Training in multi-point inspections, vehicle fueling and washing, environmental safety and spill response, safe driving, and service island organization and cleanliness.
  • Complete Technician I training in preventive maintenance, tire and wheel service, and bay tools.
  • Complete Technician II training in heavy-duty electrical systems and air and hydraulic brakes.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • Weekly pay at $23.00 per hour.
  • Pay increases as trainees successfully progress through each stage of the program.
  • $100 certification bonus for each new ASE certification obtained, up to $700.
  • Quarterly bonus of up to $500, four times per year.
  • Paid on-the-job training.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage after 30 days.
  • PTO accruing from day one, up to 80 hours in the first year.
  • Yearly merit pay increases.
  • 401(k) company match.
  • PPE, uniforms, and boot allowance.
  • Safety-first workplace and state-of-the-art equipment.
  • Top Tech Competition earnings of $250–$50,000 per year.
  • Extra paid day off for U.S. military veterans.
  • 15% company stock discount.
  • Up to $5,000 in technician tuition repayment.
  • 12 weeks of paid maternity leave, subject to eligibility criteria including work tenure.
  • Employee discounts on tools, vehicles, travel, technology, and more.
  • Unlimited bonuses up to $1,500 for each hired Diesel Mechanic Technician and Fuel Service Employee referred.
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