Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 (In-Training)

September 16, 2026

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Description About WSDOT The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation! The Opportunity WSDOT is seeking a skilled and dedicated Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 (In-Training) to join our South-Central Region team in Union Gap, WA! Working out of the Union Gap shop, you’ll play a critical role in keeping WSDOT’s fleet safe, reliable, and ready to support the communities we serve. Under general supervision, this position performs journey-level mechanical work, independently inspecting, diagnosing, repairing, and performing preventative maintenance on a wide range of light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment, including vehicles and equipment over 26,000 GVWR. Your expertise will help ensure our crews have the dependable equipment they need to keep Washington’s transportation system moving safely and efficiently. What To Expect Work is generally performed Monday–Thursday or Tuesday through Friday or other four 10-hour shifts to accomplish our work; including weekends, holidays, night work, and extended hours may be required for emergency response and non-scheduled callouts. The position requires the ability to report to the duty station within 60 minutes, respond in all weather conditions, and participate in rotational night, standby, and call-back assignments. Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 will: <ul><li>Independently perform preventative maintenance and repairs to all types of agency vehicles and equipment used in highway maintenance and construction. </li><li>Maintain, diagnose and repair all types of diesel engines, gasoline, electric and alternative fuel type of motors or engines to maintain and restore to reliable condition.</li><li>Maintain, repair, and troubleshoot all types of hydraulic and control systems including pumps, motors, valves, and hydrostatic drives. </li><li>Maintain braking systems, troubleshoots and repairs brake systems of all types including air, mechanical, hydraulic, anti-lock, pilot operated, power assist and related components, including traction control and stability systems.</li><li>Perform diagnostic and repair work on various snow and ice removal equipment such as sanding and deicing application heavy equipment, snowplows, heavy snowblowers and various specialized snow removal heavy equipment as well as four-wheel drive equipment, marine equipment, material handling equipment, paving and asphalt equipment, aerial manlifts, bridge inspection equipment, heavy excavating equipment, catch basin cleaning equipment, mobile traffic control messaging, and lighting equipment.</li><li>Fabricate, weld and install additional equipment and components. </li></ul>Qualifications This is a Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan. To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required: <ul><li>Heavy Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance: Demonstrated experience independently performing preventive maintenance, mechanical repairs and fabrication on heavy equipment and/or vehicles over 26,000 GVW as well as light- or medium-duty vehicles; must be able to test drive or operate vehicles and equipment for diagnostic purposes and ensure operational status. Working knowledge of diesel, gasoline, electric, and alternative fuel engines, including principles of mechanical operation, diagnostics, and repair. </li><li>Shop Operations and Tools: Skilled in operating and maintaining a variety of automotive mechanic tools and shop equipment including welders, grinders, hoists, air tools, saws, forklifts, hand tools, jacks, etc. </li><li>Safety Awareness and Compliance: Strong understanding of workplace safety procedures and commitment to following safety policies, including confined space entry, fall protection, and hazardous material handling. Must be able to participate in the creation and implementation of safety plans and safety training. </li><li>Technical and Administrative Proficiency: Experience using electronic systems for timekeeping, maintenance tracking, vehicle or equipment history, and fleet and inventory management. Knowledge of researching and ordering parts, creating work orders, and charging accounts for parts and labor. Proficient in standard computer applications including Microsoft Office and email communication. </li><li>Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently. Experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity. </li><li>Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth</li><li>Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others. </li></ul>The Following Qualifications Are Also Required <ul><li>Possession of a valid driver’s license with the ability to drive a state vehicle, must obtain a Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with N endorsement and without air brakes restriction within the first twelve months of employment. Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 100 pounds. </li><li>Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency callouts/stand-by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.</li><li>Ability to respond to assigned duty station with 60 minutes of an afterhours callout.</li><li>Ability to perform hands on manual labor and operates vehicles, machinery, tools, or equipment with exposure to hazardous conditions, materials, and inclement weather at a field, site, roadway, construction or right of way activity, warehouse, or repair shop facility. </li></ul>It Is Preferred That Qualified Candidates Also Demonstrate <ul><li>Heavy Equipment Repair: Ability to inspect, diagnose, repair, and perform preventative maintenance on light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment, including welding and fabrication. Experience with industrial, commercial, highway, construction, or logging equipment is highly valued. </li><li>Electrical & Electronic Systems: Ability to diagnose and repair complex electrical and electronic systems, including CAN bus, multiplex, and electronic control systems. </li><li>Heavy Equipment Operation: Ability to safely operate, inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot heavy equipment such as graders, plows, loaders, and excavators. </li><li>Brake Systems: Knowledge of heavy-duty brake systems and ability to perform inspections, diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs in accordance with applicable standards. </li><li>Commercial Driving: Ability to safely operate commercial motor vehicles requiring a Class A CDL with N endorsement and maintain required FMCSA medical certification. </li><li>Technical Expertise & Certifications: Ability to apply recognized industry standards and repair practices, with ASE, DOT Brake Certification, or similar industry credentials demonstrating technical expertise. </li></ul>Important Notes <ul><li>This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.</li><li>This position is not eligible for remote work.</li><li>In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code. </li><li>This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing. </li><li>This is a Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan. The base salaries for each level are:</li><ul><li>Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2: $82,440 – $95,676</li><li>Heavy Equipment Mechanic 1: $74,748 – $86,688 </li></ul><li>WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit WSDOT <ul><li>Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.</li><li>Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!</li><li>Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness. </li><li>Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information. </li></ul>Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT? How To Apply Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: <ul><li>An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date. </li><li>Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment. </li></ul>Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity. WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter listed. Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference Heavy Equipment Mechanic 2 #51433 in the subject line. More than Just a Paycheck! Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs. Read About Our Benefits The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time. Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits. Insurance Benefits Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state. Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts. To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs. Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses. Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction. The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees. Retirement And Deferred Compensation State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site. Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options. Social Security All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system. Public Service Loan Forgiveness If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Holidays Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year. Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information. Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday. Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave. Sick Leave Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave. Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday. Vacation (Annual Leave) Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave. Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday. As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165. Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave. Military Leave Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year. Bereavement Leave Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave. Additional Leave Leave Sharing Parental Leave Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Leave Without Pay Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits. Updated 01-07-2026 01 What type of driver’s license do you currently possess? <ul><li>Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A</li><li>Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B</li><li>Standard Driver’s License</li><li>None of the above </li></ul>02 Please list any and all endorsements on your driver's license. If your driver's license does not have any endorsements, please type "N/A." 03 Do you have the ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing 100 pounds in a safe manner? <ul><li>Yes</li><li>No </li></ul>04 Do you have the ability to report in service to assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call, or be willing to relocate to meet the response time? <ul><li>Yes</li><li>No </li></ul>05 This role requires the ability to work varying shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed to respond to unscheduled work, call-outs, or emergencies. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement? <ul><li>Yes</li><li>No </li></ul>06 Which best describes your experience independently performing preventive maintenance, diagnostics, mechanical repairs, and fabrication on heavy equipment and vehicles? <ul><li>I have extensive experience independently diagnosing, repairing, and performing preventive maintenance and fabrication on heavy-duty equipment and vehicles over 26,000 GVW, as well as light- and medium-duty vehicles. I routinely test drive or operate equipment for diagnostic purposes and have experience working with diesel, gasoline, electric, and/or alternative fuel systems.</li><li>I have substantial experience independently performing preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and mechanical repairs on heavy-duty vehicles or equipment, including some experience with vehicles over 26,000 GVW, and have operated equipment for diagnostic purposes.</li><li>I have experience performing preventive maintenance and mechanical repairs on vehicles or equipment, with some experience diagnosing mechanical problems or performing fabrication.</li><li>I have limited experience assisting with vehicle or equipment maintenance and repairs but have not routinely performed this work independently.</li><li>I have no professional experience performing vehicle or heavy equipment maintenance or repair. </li></ul>07 Have you independently operated or test-driven vehicles or equipment for the purpose of diagnosing mechanical problems or verifying repairs? <ul><li>Yes</li><li>No </li></ul>08 Which best describes your experience safely operating and maintaining automotive mechanic tools and shop equipment? <ul><li>I have extensive experience independently operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting a wide variety of mechanic tools and shop equipment, including welders, grinders, hoists, air tools, saws, forklifts, jacks, and both powered and hand tools.</li><li>I have substantial experience using and maintaining a variety of mechanic tools and shop equipment and can independently select the appropriate tools and equipment for different repair tasks.</li><li>I have experience using common automotive or mechanical hand and power tools and some shop equipment under general supervision.</li><li>I have limited experience using mechanic tools or shop equipment and have primarily assisted others with their use.</li><li>I have no professional experience using automotive mechanic tools or shop equipment. </li></ul>09 Have you participated in developing, implementing, or delivering safety plans or safety training related to mechanical, equipment, or shop operations? <ul><li>Yes</li><li>No </li></ul>10 Which best describes your experience using electronic systems and computer applications to support vehicle, equipment, parts, and maintenance operations? <ul><li>I have extensive experience independently using electronic maintenance, fleet, inventory, or work-order systems to document vehicle/equipment history, create and close work orders, track time and labor, research and order parts, manage inventory, and accurately charge parts and labor to appropriate accounts. I also routinely use Microsoft Office and email for work-related communication and documentation.</li><li>I have substantial experience using electronic systems to document maintenance activities, track vehicle or equipment history, enter time, create work orders, research/order parts, or manage fleet and inventory information, along with regular use of Microsoft Office and email.</li><li>I have experience entering maintenance, timekeeping, inventory, or work-order information into electronic systems and using standard computer applications such as Microsoft Office and email.</li><li>I have limited experience using computer systems for maintenance or administrative purposes and have primarily entered information under the direction of others.</li><li>I have no professional experience using electronic systems to support vehicle, equipment, fleet, or maintenance operations. </li></ul>11 How did you learn of this employment opportunity? <ul><li>Indeed</li><li>LinkedIn</li><li>Direct Email Notification</li><li>WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)</li><li>Career Fair</li><li>Monster</li><li>WorkSource</li><li>"NOW HIRING" banner/sign</li><li>Radio advertisement</li><li>WSDOT Employment Site</li><li>Careers.wa.gov</li><li>governmentjobs.com</li><li>Other (specify below) </li></ul>12 | If You Selected 'Other' On The Previous Question, Please Specify How You Learned Of This Employment Opportunity In The Space Provided <ul><li> Required Question</li></ul>

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