Heavy Equipment Mechanic 3 | Colfax & Spokane

Heavy Equipment Mechanic 3 | Colfax & Spokane

Salary

$88,788.00 - $102,996.00 Annually

Location

Multiple Locations - Eastern Washington, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-ER-60390m

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Eastern Region

Opening Date

09/03/2026

Closing Date

9/17/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

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 worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking two Lead Heavy Equipment Mechanics to support the safe, reliable operation of the vehicles and equipment essential to delivering transportation services across Eastern Washington. One position is in Colfax and one is in Spokane. In these roles, you will help ensure critical maintenance and operations equipment remain safe, dependable, and ready to support highway maintenance, emergency response, and other essential agency activities. As a lead, you will provide technical guidance and direction to fellow mechanics while helping maintain high standards for quality, safety, and efficient shop operations. Join WSDOT in keeping the equipment behind Washington's transportation system operating safely and effectively for the communities we serve.

What to Expect

These positions work in a hands-on shop environment and may be exposed to hazardous conditions, materials, machinery, and roadway or field activities. Work requires manual labor, including maneuvering materials up to 50 pounds, operating shop and diagnostic equipment, and safely moving throughout work areas. The regular schedule is Monday through Friday, with emergency call-outs, standby, nights, weekends, holidays, and all-weather response as needed, including the ability to report within 60 minutes after an after-hours call. Occasional regional and statewide travel may be required for service calls, meetings, or temporary assignments.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role you will:

• Plan, schedule, and assign repair work and shop operations based on mechanic workload and shifting Maintenance and Operations priorities; provide technical direction and conduct final inspections of completed repairs.
• Receive and inspect equipment entering the shop; consult with operators and review maintenance histories, orders, and preventive maintenance records to determine repair needs and scope.
• Inspect, diagnose, repair, and road-test a wide variety of vehicles and heavy equipment, including complex gas and diesel engines, transmissions, braking, hydraulic, electrical, exhaust, axle, and differential systems.
• Use advanced digital diagnostic and scanning tools, specialized field service equipment, machinist skills, and welding fabrication to perform repairs and emergency equipment fixes in shop and field environments.
• Service and maintain specialized highway equipment, including dump trucks, snow and ice equipment, distributors, mowers, sweepers, backhoes, graders, loaders, man lifts, road-flusher trucks, VMS signs, and liquid-application equipment.
• Oversee the shop's Preventive Maintenance program, assist with equipment operator training, provide input on employee performance and training needs, and coordinate warranty work with contract vendors.
• Request, procure, inventory, and account for repair parts, equipment, goods, and services in accordance with WSDOT purchasing policies; ensure proper invoice processing and storage and disposal of waste and hazardous materials.
• Utilize the M5 Fleet Management System to manage shop workflows, service orders, repair estimates, parts, maintenance schedules, and performance data; audit and close service orders for accuracy and remain available for 24/7 emergency callbacks.

Qualifications

To be considered the following is required:

• Heavy Equipment Repair and Diagnostic Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge and ability to diagnose, repair, and maintain light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment, including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and electronic systems.
• Problem Solving: Ability to evaluate complex issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions in a timely manner.
• Lead Work and Work Coordination: Ability to organize, prioritize, assign, and monitor repair activities to support efficient shop operations and meet changing operational demands.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical and operational information clearly.
• Planning Coordination: Ability to prioritize, schedule, and coordinate work across multiple locations and competing demands.
• Safety Practices: Knowledge of workplace safety practices, hazardous material handling requirements, and the ability to promote compliance with applicable safety policies and procedures.
• Technology & Systems: Experience in using fleet management systems (e.g., M5), diagnostic tools, and reporting software.
• Experience: Three years of experience performing preventive maintenance, inspections, diagnosis, and repair of automotive or heavy equipment systems while assisting or working under the direction of a journey-level mechanic.
• License: Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL), with "N" and Air Brake endorsements, no automatic transmission restriction and DOT Medical Certification OR obtain within 12 months of hire date.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certifications in automotive, light, or heavy equipment repair.
• DOT Brake Certification.
• Automotive and Diesel Systems Expertise: Demonstrated ability to inspect, diagnose, maintain, and repair automotive and diesel-powered vehicles and equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable performance.
• Mechanical Diagnostic and Repair Skills: Proven proficiency in performing complex diagnostic procedures, identifying mechanical and electrical issues, and conducting repairs using appropriate tools, technology, and industry-standard practices.
• Technical Knowledge of Vehicle Systems: Comprehensive understanding of vehicle systems, including engines, transmissions, braking, steering, and electrical systems, with the ability to apply technical knowledge to resolve performance and safety issues.
• Industry Experience and Application: Experience applying professional automotive repair practices in a service or fleet maintenance environment, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, performance standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Power Tool Operation: Proficiency in operating shop tools such as welders, drill presses, grinders, hoists, jacks, and air tools.

Important Notes

• Typical schedule is 6:30.AM - 5:00 PM, Monday- Thursday or Tuesday- Friday, possibly varying shifts seasonally.
• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• 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.
• This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing
• 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 www.uscis.gov

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• 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.
• 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.

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:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• 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.

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 Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference HEM3-60390m 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. Thats 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

I am interested in the:

• Colfax location
• Spokane location
• Both

02

Which best describes your experience performing preventive maintenance, inspections, diagnosis, and repair of automotive or heavy equipment systems?

• I independently perform preventive maintenance, inspections, diagnosis, and repair of light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment, including complex mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and electronic systems.
• I independently perform preventive maintenance, inspections, diagnosis, and repair of automotive or heavy equipment systems, with limited technical guidance when addressing complex issues.
• I perform preventive maintenance, inspections, diagnosis, and repair of automotive or heavy equipment systems while working under the direction of a journey-level mechanic.
• I assist with preventive maintenance, inspections, diagnosis, and repair of automotive or heavy equipment systems while developing technical skills through training and supervised work.
• I have limited exposure to automotive or heavy equipment maintenance and repair and primarily perform basic tasks under close supervision.

03

Do you currently possess a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with "N" and Air Brake endorsements, no automatic transmission restriction, and DOT Medical Certification, or are you able to obtain these requirements within 12 months of hire?

• Yes, I currently possess all required credentials.
• No, but I am able to obtain all required credentials within 12 months of hire.
• No

04

Which best describes your experience diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining automotive or heavy equipment systems?

• I independently diagnose and repair complex mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and electronic systems across light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment, including identifying root causes and completing repairs using advanced diagnostic tools.
• I independently diagnose and repair multiple vehicle and equipment systems, including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, or electronic components, with minimal technical guidance.
• I perform inspections, preventive maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of automotive or heavy equipment systems using established procedures and technical guidance.
• I have performed basic maintenance, inspections, and repairs on automotive or heavy equipment and have developed technical knowledge through training or supervised work.
• I have limited hands-on experience with automotive or heavy equipment maintenance and repair and primarily perform tasks under close supervision.

05

Which best describes your experience using diagnostic procedures, tools, and technology to identify and correct mechanical or electrical equipment problems?

• I independently perform complex diagnostic procedures, interpret diagnostic information, identify root causes, and complete repairs using appropriate tools, technology, and industry-standard practices.
• I regularly diagnose mechanical or electrical problems using computerized diagnostic equipment, meters, manufacturer information, and other specialized tools, and complete necessary repairs.
• I perform routine diagnostic procedures and repairs using established troubleshooting methods, service information, and shop tools.
• I assist experienced mechanics with diagnostic procedures and repairs and have developing proficiency with diagnostic tools and equipment.
• I have limited experience performing diagnostics and primarily rely on established instructions or direct supervision.

06

Which best describes your experience organizing, assigning, and monitoring repair work in a shop or fleet maintenance environment?

• I routinely plan and prioritize shop workload, assign work based on mechanic capabilities and operational needs, monitor progress, provide technical guidance, and conduct or support final quality inspections.
• I coordinate multiple repair assignments, adjust priorities based on operational demands, monitor work progress, and provide technical assistance to other mechanics.
• I have coordinated individual repair assignments or shop activities and communicated work priorities and status to others.
• I have assisted with coordinating shop work or provided technical guidance to less-experienced employees while performing my own assigned repairs.
• I have primarily performed individual mechanic assignments and have limited experience coordinating or directing the work of others.

07

Which best describes your experience planning and coordinating equipment repairs, preventive maintenance, parts, vendors, or service activities across competing operational demands?

• I independently coordinate multiple repair and preventive maintenance activities, prioritize work based on operational needs, coordinate parts and vendor services, and adjust schedules to minimize equipment downtime.
• I regularly schedule and coordinate repair or maintenance activities, manage competing priorities, and communicate changes to affected personnel.
• I coordinate assigned maintenance activities, parts, or services using established schedules and priorities.
• I assist with scheduling or coordinating repair and maintenance activities under the direction of a lead or supervisor.
• I have limited experience planning or coordinating maintenance activities beyond my individual assignments.

08

Which best describes your experience applying and promoting workplace safety practices during equipment repair and maintenance activities?

• I actively identify hazards, ensure compliance with safety procedures and hazardous material requirements, correct unsafe conditions, and promote safe work practices among other employees.
• I regularly apply safety procedures, safely handle hazardous materials, identify potential hazards, and provide safety guidance to coworkers.
• I consistently follow established safety procedures, use required personal protective equipment, and safely handle tools, equipment, and hazardous materials.
• I have received safety training and apply established safety procedures while performing maintenance and repair work under guidance.
• I have limited experience with formal workplace safety procedures but understand the importance of following established requirements.

09

Which best describes your experience using fleet management systems, computerized diagnostic tools, and electronic systems to support equipment maintenance and repair?

• I independently use fleet management systems such as M5 and advanced diagnostic equipment to manage work orders, estimate repairs, track parts and maintenance, analyze information, and ensure accurate records.
• I regularly use fleet management and computerized diagnostic systems to document repairs, manage work orders, diagnose equipment issues, and track maintenance activities.
• I use computerized systems and diagnostic tools to complete assigned maintenance documentation, retrieve equipment information, and support troubleshooting and repairs.
• I have received training or have limited experience using computerized fleet or diagnostic systems and can perform routine functions with guidance.
• I have limited experience using computerized fleet management or diagnostic systems.

10

Which best describes your experience communicating technical and operational information in a fleet maintenance or repair environment?

• I routinely explain complex technical issues and repair recommendations clearly to mechanics, operators, supervisors, vendors, and other stakeholders and prepare accurate written documentation.
• I communicate technical information effectively to employees with varying levels of technical knowledge and document repair findings, recommendations, and work status.
• I regularly communicate repair status, equipment issues, work priorities, and technical information to coworkers and supervisors and maintain required records.
• I communicate routine technical information and complete required written documentation with established guidance.
• I have limited experience communicating technical information and primarily report information to a lead or supervisor.

11

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

12

If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov