Diesel Tech / Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Diesel Tech / Heavy Equipment Diesel Mechanic

Central Tree — Pingree Grove, IL
Pay: $30.00–$35.00 per hour
Schedule: Full‑time, Monday–Friday (typically 7 AM–4:30 PM)

Job Summary

Central Tree isn’t a museum for shiny machines; it’s a full‑service forestry and land‑clearing operation. Our equipment works hard every day in mud, dirt, brush, hauling, grinding and clearing, and we fix it right when it breaks. We’re looking for a diesel tech who can diagnose problems, make solid repairs and keep us moving. No drama, no ego, no guessing—just honest work. The fleet works hard; the shop has to work hard and smart.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose & repair: Work on diesel engines, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, drivetrains, brakes, cooling and fuel systems.
• Perform maintenance: Conduct scheduled preventive maintenance on heavy equipment, trucks, trailers and forestry attachments.
• Troubleshoot hydraulics: Identify and fix leaks, hoses, fittings and pressure issues.
• Troubleshoot electrical systems: Diagnose wiring, batteries, alternators, starters, sensors, relays, lights and controls.
• Complete field & shop repairs: Assist in the shop and in the field when equipment breaks down on job sites.
• Operate equipment: Safely operate loaders, excavators, skid steers and forestry machines for diagnostics, repositioning, loading and unloading.
• Document & communicate: Record parts used, labour and photos; keep leadership updated on repair status and parts needs.
• Organize & improve: Keep work zones, tools, parts and service bays tidy, safe and functional.

Requirements/Qualifications

• Proven heavy‑equipment or diesel mechanic experience.
• Strong hydraulic and electrical diagnostic skills.
• Experience with trucks, trailers, loaders, excavators or skid steers.
• Valid driver’s licence and ability to operate heavy equipment when needed.
• Ability to diagnose rather than guess; work independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable attendance, strong communication skills and a safety‑first mindset.
• Bonus: forestry or construction equipment experience; welding or fabrication skills.

Benefits/Compensation

• Pay range: $30–$35 per hour, dependent on experience, diagnostic ability and reliability.
• Tools: Employees must provide and maintain their own standard tool set. Standard company tools are available to use. The shop operates as a team, and occasional borrowing is understood; however, repeated borrowing of the same tool means the employee is expected to purchase it. You can buy tools from any vendor; a Snap‑on truck visits weekly for convenience only. Central Tree isn’t affiliated with Snap‑on and receives no benefit from employee purchases. Start date is contingent upon delivery and verification of personal tools.
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, typically 7 AM–4:30 PM. Overtime or emergency repairs may be required because heavy equipment doesn’t break on schedule.

Culture & Values

We respect mechanics who diagnose the problem, fix the problem and don’t become the problem. Leave the ego at home. We’re not interested in toolbox celebrities or “that’s not my job” attitudes. We care about real skill, solid diagnostics, work ethic, accountability, teamwork and getting equipment back in service. If you’re ready to do honest, hands‑on work and keep a hard‑working fleet moving, Central Tree wants to hear from you.

Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Application Question(s):

• Are you willing to undergo the required background check, drug screen, and provide references?
• Please list the types of equipment you are experienced in repairing.
• Honestly rank your experience troubleshooting and repairing electrical systems - beginner, intermediate, or expert?
• Honestly rank your experience troubleshooting and repairing hydraulic systems - beginner, intermediate, or expert?

Work Location: In person