Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Jones•Natchez, MS

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Jones Lumber turns raw timber into premium grade hardwood lumber and durable access mats. We exist to enhance the lives of our employees, customers, vendors, and the communities we serve. This Heavy Equipment Mechanic keeps our Cat and John Deere wheel loaders running safely and reliably so the whole operation keeps moving. We run on five core values: Integrity, Passion, Unity, Sustainability, and Humility. Safety, teamwork, productive feedback, and genuine care for our people guide how we operate every shift, not just slogans on a wall. Wheel loaders are the workhorses of our yard and mill. When they go down, material stops moving. This mechanic's skill directly protects uptime, safety, and production. Reporting to the Equipment Fleet Manager, you are the specialist we count on to keep these machines in top condition. The Heavy Equipment Mechanic diagnoses, repairs, and maintains Caterpillar and John Deere wheel loaders and supports other fleet equipment as needed. This is a hands-on role focused on preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and quality repairs that keep machines safe and available.

Requirements

Proven ability to diagnose and repair heavy equipment and rolling stock.
Strong knowledge of diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical, and powertrain systems.
Ability to use diagnostic software and read schematics and service manuals.
Preventive maintenance and inspection skills.
Safe use of shop tools, lifts, and diagnostic equipment.
Basic computer skills, including work order and service record entry.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Proven hands-on experience repairing heavy equipment, with wheel loader experience strongly preferred.
Demonstrated track record of quality, reliable repairs.
Safety-first mindset: treats safe work as non-negotiable.
Strong troubleshooter: stays methodical and calm when diagnosing tough faults.
Quality-focused: takes pride in repairs that last.
Dependable: shows up and follows through.
Team player: communicates clearly and supports the crew.
Adaptable: shifts priorities as breakdowns and production needs change.
Eager to learn: keeps current on Cat and John Deere technology.

Nice To Haves

Technical or trade school training preferred.
Open to a range of experience levels.
Experience with Caterpillar ET and John Deere Service Advisor diagnostic tools.
Welding and fabrication skills.
Experience with a broader mixed fleet of heavy equipment.
Familiarity with sawmill, log yard, or forestry equipment.
OSHA 10 or 30, or willingness to obtain.
Caterpillar or John Deere factory training (preferred).
ASE, diesel or Heavy equipment certification (preferred).
Forklift or equipment operation certification (a plus).
Welding certification (a plus).
Understanding of heavy equipment operation in an industrial setting.
Familiarity with lumber, forestry, or material-handling environments.
Awareness of OEM maintenance standards and intervals.

Responsibilities

Follow all safety procedures, including lockout/tagout and machine guarding.
Participate in daily toolbox talks and safe work practices.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
Follow environmental rules for fluids, waste, and disposal.
Perform preventive maintenance on heavy equipment and rolling stock on schedule.
Diagnose and repair engine, hydraulic, electrical, powertrain, and brake systems.
Troubleshoot faults using diagnostic software and OEM procedures.
Perform welding and fabrication repairs as needed.
Support repairs on other heavy equipment and vehicles when required.
Complete accurate work orders, service records, and inspection reports.
Identify and request the correct parts and track usage.
Communicate equipment status and repair timelines to the Equipment Fleet Manager.
Recommend repairs or part replacements before failures occur.
Support root cause analysis on recurring issues.