Diesel Technician/Mechanic III - Entry Level

Penske•West Columbia, SC
•Onsite

About The Position

Penske is hiring an entry-level Diesel Technician/Mechanic to perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs on a diverse fleet of vehicles. The technician helps keep customer vehicles safe, reliable, and on the road. Working alongside experienced supervisors and master technicians, the employee will learn Penske’s vehicle maintenance processes, technology, and repair practices through industry-certified training and hands-on coaching. Penske provides major shop tools and training on a variety of OEM equipment. The position is based at 107 Saxe Gotha Dr., West Columbia, SC 29172. It is DOT-regulated or designated safety-sensitive and requires working in a constant state of alertness and safely accepting responsibility for personal and others’ safety. The role requires regular, predictable attendance and the ability to work the required schedule and location. Training travel within a nearby geographic area may be required.

Requirements

  • Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort using tools.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to solve problems.
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills.
  • Ability to work well as part of a team and outside.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Ability to understand and comply with instructions, guidelines, rules, regulations, and other information established by Penske management.
  • Ability to perform work in compliance with DOT, OSHA, and Penske safety and maintenance policies.
  • Regular, predictable, full attendance.
  • Ability to meet the role’s driver qualification file requirements, including an annual motor vehicle records check, completed DOT physical, and safety performance history records request from prior employers in the last three years; CDL holders must also complete a DOT drug screening within 30 days of starting and are subject to an FMCSA Clearinghouse review.
  • Willingness to work the required schedule and at the specified location, complete a Penske employment application, undergo background screening, pass a drug screen and physical as required by the DOT, and potentially travel nearby for training.
  • Ability to remain alert and work safely in a DOT-regulated or safety-sensitive role.
  • Ability to move frequently and stand, walk, climb, bend, and sit for extended periods.
  • Ability to routinely use hands to grasp, reach, touch, handle, feel, and operate tools or controls.
  • Ability to work safely at heights using applicable ladders and elevated work platforms and to work safely in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to see and hear well enough to safely navigate a workplace with frequent large-truck movement.
  • Ability to regularly lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 100 pounds, and regularly push or pull truck tires weighing over 100 pounds.

Nice To Haves

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Vocational or technical certification in vehicle repair.
  • One to two years of automotive or diesel repair experience.

Responsibilities

  • Maintain vehicles and ensure they are safe for customers.
  • Use Penske tools and technologies to log, research, and complete repairs, including basic vehicle diagnostics.
  • Perform preventative maintenance, including tire replacement or rotation, vehicle component lubrication and replacement, some electrical system repairs, and cooling system maintenance on gas and diesel engine vehicles.
  • Partner with a manager to learn new skills through technician training and hands-on coaching.
  • Complete other projects and tasks as assigned by a supervisor.
  • Follow DOT, OSHA, and Penske safety and maintenance policies, including proper tool and PPE selection and use.

Benefits

  • Competitive starting salary.
  • Shift premiums for second shift ($2), third shift ($3), and weekends ($2).
  • Career stability.
  • Opportunity for growth.
  • Excellent benefits, including lots of time off.
  • Training on a variety of OEM equipment through Penske’s Technician Certification Program, certified as a Continuing Automotive Service Education provider.
  • Advanced vehicle maintenance technology.
  • Location and schedule flexibility.
  • Major shop tools provided.
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