Field Service Technician - Heavy Equipment

Ziegler•Altoona, IA
•Onsite

About The Position

Ziegler CAT is hiring a Field Service Diesel Technician to support customers around its Altoona location. The technician works on heavy construction, compact, aerial, and paving equipment, including Caterpillar machines. A company truck is provided. The role requires independent troubleshooting and repair across mechanical, hydraulic, diesel, and electrical systems, along with safe work practices, responsive customer service, and accurate work-order documentation. The technician may be directed to respond to after-hours emergency calls and will collaborate with other technicians as needed. The position may involve indoor and outdoor work, with noise that can be loud at times. Ziegler describes itself as a third-generation, family-owned CAT dealer founded in 1914, with more than 2,400 employees across more than 30 locations in Minnesota, Iowa, and northern Missouri. The company emphasizes customer success, career development, training, work/life balance, and a safe, clean, and friendly work environment. The pay range is $38.00 to $51.00; starting wage depends on skills, experience, education, and location, and the range may vary by 10% depending on applicant location. Full-time positions are eligible for the listed benefits.

Requirements

  • Have a two-year technical college degree in diesel technology or a related field, or a high school diploma/GED and two years of comparable shop mechanic experience.
  • Have at least three years of relevant diesel equipment repair experience; some field experience is preferred.
  • Have working knowledge of hydraulics, transmissions, undercarriage, track systems, engine and emission components, electrical systems, and fuel systems.
  • Be able to write and communicate effectively and interact with supervisors, customers, and team members.
  • Have basic computer skills to document work orders and use online diagnostic systems.
  • Own a mechanic tool set.
  • Be able to maintain a safe and clean work environment, including the service truck.
  • Be willing and able to respond to after-hours emergency calls as directed by a supervisor.
  • Be able to operate equipment safely.
  • Have and maintain a clean driving record.
  • Pass a DOT pre-employment drug screen and physical because the role is deemed safety-sensitive.
  • Have a DOT medical card or be able to obtain one.
  • Have a Class A CDL or be willing to obtain one within a defined period.
  • Meet the physical requirements, including pushing or pulling up to 50 pounds, lifting or carrying up to 60 pounds, and lifting bulky objects, as well as the listed standing, walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, reaching, crawling, and hand-use activities.

Nice To Haves

  • Previous experience with Caterpillar equipment.
  • Some field experience.

Responsibilities

  • Diagnose and repair Caterpillar equipment, including compactors, excavators, loaders, dozers, and other heavy construction, compact, aerial, and paving equipment.
  • Use independent judgment to repair complex equipment and tools involving mechanical, hydraulic, diesel, and electrical systems.
  • Work safely and follow company policies, procedures, and standards.
  • Respond to customer needs positively, supportively, and in a timely manner to ensure maximum value for work performed.
  • Respond to after-hours emergency calls when directed by a supervisor.
  • Work collaboratively and assist other technicians with troubleshooting and repairs.
  • Document work orders completely and promptly, and identify and communicate parts needs for inventory.

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • 15 days of PTO in the first year, with accrual starting on day one
  • Nine paid holidays
  • 401(k) plan with company contribution and match
  • Health Savings Account, with Ziegler contributing up to $1,000 tax-free each year
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid parental leave
  • Funeral leave
  • Fitness membership discount
  • Education assistance
  • Safety boot reimbursement
  • PPE and uniforms provided
  • Tool insurance
  • Company truck
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