Mechanic (Non-ASE or ASE Certified)

Mechanic (Non-ASE or ASE Certified)

Salary

$29.28 - $38.13 Hourly

Location

Kelso, WA

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

2026-012

Department

Public Works

Division

ER&R

Opening Date

05/06/2026

Closing Date

6/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Bargaining Unit

334

• Description
• Benefits

General Position Summary

This position reports to any assigned work area and receives instructions and assignments from the Fleet Operations Supervisor or area lead person. This position is responsible for diagnosing mechanical problems; assessing needed repairs and troubleshooting, including computer diagnostics; performing repairs, including repairs in electrical and hydraulic systems; and installing parts and components in County owned vehicles and equipment. It also conducts regular inspections and maintenance of County owned vehicles and equipment to ensure their optimum performance and safety. This is a journeyman level mechanic position skilled in other related areas including parts design and modifications, welding, paint, and bodywork.

This position is open through June 10th, 2026.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Inspect, diagnose, and perform engine or mechanical repairs on gasoline and diesel vehicles and equipment such as passenger vehicles, graders, dozers, loaders, excavators, rollers, hydro seeders, tankers, mowers, and sweepers.
• Operate and road test the various pieces of county equipment to check for defects, make adjustments, and inspect repair work.
• Conduct regular safety and maintenance inspections of vehicles and equipment.
• Troubleshoot and assess mechanical problems, individually or in a collaborative setting, and develop repair plans/strategies. Refer and study operator and maintenance procedures and manuals.
• Log and maintain accurate and detailed maintenance, repairs, inspection, and other shop records.
• Perform other related specialized functions to execute repair or installations such as machinist, welding, paint and body repairs, tire repairs and replacements.
• Designs, modifies, and installs hydraulic and electrical systems and other special accessories to vehicles and equipment.
• Purchase and receive specialized repair parts and supplies from various parts and supply vendors.
• Perform general housekeeping of the shop and storage areas to maintain an organized and safe workshop. Perform shop- closing and security process at end of shift.
• Promptly communicate to the Foreman or Manager unusual problems and issues outside the scope of this position.
• Attend and participate in regular staff meetings. Contribute ideas for the improvement and efficiency of general operations.
• Actively participate in job related and required training. Attend training classes, schools, and seminars to stay up to date on modern technical skills and knowledge, compliance, and other job-related issues. Attain and maintain required certifications.
• Assist train and guide new or supporting personnel, as well as collaborate in the in the effective implementation of operation and maintenance programs and procedures.
• Collaborate with other Public Works divisions and outside agencies during projects and emergencies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Possess and maintain a valid Driver's License, without restrictions. Must obtain and maintain a Class A CDL with tanker and airbrake endorsements within one year of occupying the mechanic position.

• Possess a general knowledge of all types of gasoline and diesel vehicles and equipment, their functions, and their principal components, commonly used in heavy road maintenance and construction.

• Mechanics must furnish tools up to 1-1/8 inches. The Employer shall replace in kind broken, worn out, or stolen tools that are not replaced by the manufacturer and which have been registered with the Employer.

• Journeyman level mechanic with five (5) years experience in gasoline AND OR diesel mechanical repair facility, and skilled in at least the following areas:

• Gasoline and diesel engine diagnoses, maintenance, and repair.

• Transmission diagnosis, overhaul, and repair.

• Electrical trouble shooting and analysis including basic knowledge of computerized engine and transmission control.

• Hydraulic analysis and repair.

• Brake maintenance and repair.

• Basic knowledge of body repair and painting, welding, tire repair and replacement.

At the discretion of the employer, certified vocational course work and training may substitute for two (2) years of experience.

Preferred/Additional Minimum Qualifications - for ASE Certified Mechanics:

• Possess and maintain ASE Certification as a Master Heavy Duty Truck Technician
• Possess and maintain a valid Class A Commercial Drivers License with Tanker and Air Brake endorsements. Or, possess at the time of application a valid Class B Commercial Drivers License with Air Brake endorsement, but must get the Class A endorsements within 6 months of employment.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Develop and maintain effective working relationships and communication with other department employees, vendors and contractors, other county employees and departments, as well as other local agencies. Interpersonal skills when dealing with the general public. Effectively communicate both formally and informally with others.
• Effectively work independently as well as in a collaborative and team working environment.
• Effectively prioritize and manage work time in a multi-task work environment with demands from diverse sources.
• Work efficiently while attending to applicable safety regulations standard to the trade. Follow written and oral instructions and established procedures.
• Comprehend and interpret complex mechanical/technical data. Make mathematical calculations. Analyze data and diagnose equipment problems, arrive at conclusions, take corrective action or make recommendations of plans of action.
• Take accurate data and maintain accurate and timely records. Present effective and concise reports.
• Ability to handle job stress and interact effectively with others in the workplace.

Cowlitz County offers a competitive benefits package for Full-Time employees, including:

• Health Insurance: Variety of Medical, dental, life, vision, and prescription insurance for employee and family. Employees who are covered under another persons medical plan have the option of an HRA (Health Retirement Account) in lieu of medical insurance. HSA and FSA plans are also available, depending on eligibility.
• 11 Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Retirement: All full-time employees must participate in a Washington State Retirement Services plan, and may participate in a Deferred Compensation Plan, if desired.
• Employee Assistance Program employees and family members for help with personal or family issues.
• Group Life Insurance: Basic life and Accident insurance is provided to employee, with additional insurance available to purchase.

Employer Cowlitz County

Address 207 4th Ave. N

Kelso, Washington, 98626

Phone 360-577-3065

Website http://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us