Shop Assistant/Heavy-Duty Mechanic Apprentice

Position Summary

Red Pine Equipment is seeking a motivated and dependable Shop Assistant/Heavy-Duty Mechanic Apprentice to join our Red Pines Equipment.

This entry-level position is designed for someone interested in learning the heavy-duty truck and diesel repair industry. The Shop Assistant/Apprentice will perform basic maintenance, tire work, cleaning, organization, parts handling, and other support duties while learning from experienced heavy-duty mechanics.

The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, mechanical interest, willingness to learn, and commitment to maintaining a safe and organized shop. Previous shop experience is helpful but is not required for the right candidate.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist mechanics with inspections, preventive maintenance, and repair work.
• Perform oil changes, lubrication services, filter replacements, fluid checks, and other basic maintenance tasks.
• Mount, dismount, repair, rotate, and install truck and trailer tires under proper supervision.
• Check and adjust tire pressure and inspect tires for damage, wear, and irregular conditions.
• Assist with brake, suspension, lighting, electrical, and wheel-end repairs as training and ability progress.
• Remove and install basic components under the direction of a qualified mechanic.
• Retrieve parts, tools, fluids, and supplies needed for repair work.
• Help receive, organize, stock, and inventory shop parts and supplies.
• Clean tools, workbenches, service areas, floors, pits, equipment, and common shop spaces.
• Empty waste containers and properly dispose of oil, filters, coolant, tires, batteries, and other materials.
• Assist with washing trucks, trailers, components, and shop equipment.
• Keep shop entrances, walkways, parking areas, and workspaces clear and safe.
• Perform basic facility and grounds-maintenance duties when assigned.
• Inspect tools and equipment and report damaged or unsafe items.
• Help maintain oil, coolant, washer fluid, grease, and other shop supply levels.
• Assist with vehicle movement in the shop or yard when trained and authorized.
• Complete assigned work-order notes and maintenance documentation.
• Follow instructions from mechanics, the Service Advisor, and the Shop Manager.
• Participate in hands-on training and learn proper repair, inspection, and diagnostic procedures.
• Learn how to use hand tools, power tools, tire equipment, lifts, jacks, and basic diagnostic equipment.
• Follow all safety, environmental, personal protective equipment, and housekeeping procedures.
• Report equipment damage, spills, hazards, injuries, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Perform other shop-support or maintenance duties assigned by the Shop Manager.

Training and Development

The Shop Assistant/Apprentice will receive practical experience in areas that may include:

• Preventive maintenance inspections.
• Oil and filter services.
• Commercial tire service.
• Air-brake systems.
• Truck and trailer electrical systems.
• Suspension and steering systems.
• Wheel-end inspection and service.
• Diesel engine fundamentals.
• Computerized diagnostic systems.
• DOT inspection requirements.
• Parts identification and repair-order documentation.
• Safe use of shop tools and lifting equipment.

Advancement will be based on attendance, safety, work quality, demonstrated skills, completed training, and available positions.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Mechanical interest and willingness to learn heavy-duty truck and trailer maintenance.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to safely use or learn to use hand tools and shop equipment.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to work cooperatively with mechanics and other shop personnel.
• Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record is preferred.
• Must be willing to complete company-provided or required safety training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in an automotive, diesel, tire, welding, construction, farming, equipment, or maintenance environment.
• Vocational, technical school, or high school automotive training.
• Basic understanding of tools, mechanical systems, and workplace safety.
• Experience mounting commercial tires or completing oil-change services.
• Interest in pursuing State of Michigan or ASE heavy-duty repair certifications.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong work ethic and positive attitude.
• Willingness to ask questions and accept instruction.
• Ability to work independently after receiving proper training.
• Attention to detail and safety.
• Ability to complete physical work throughout the shift.
• Ability to manage routine tasks without constant supervision.
• Respect for company tools, customer equipment, and coworkers.
• Desire to develop into a qualified heavy-duty mechanic.

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to:

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Frequently bend, kneel, crouch, climb, reach, push, and pull.
• Regularly lift and carry tools, tires, parts, and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Move heavier items with assistance or approved lifting equipment.
• Safely climb into and out of commercial trucks and trailers.
• Work beneath equipment and in confined or difficult positions.
• Use hand tools, power tools, tire equipment, jacks, lifts, and cleaning equipment.
• Work indoors and outdoors in changing temperatures and weather conditions.

Work Environment

Work is performed in an active heavy-duty repair shop. Employees may be exposed to noise, grease, dirt, exhaust, cleaning products, oil, coolant, moving equipment, sharp objects, hot surfaces, and changing temperatures. Required personal protective equipment must be worn at all times.

Why Join A.M. Express/Red Pine Equipment?

This position is an opportunity to enter the heavy-duty maintenance industry, gain practical experience, and learn from experienced technicians. A.M. Express & Red Pine Equipment values employees who are dependable, safety-minded, willing to learn, and interested in building a long-term career.

Compensation: Based on experience and qualifications
Schedule: To be determined
Benefits: Available in accordance with company eligibility requirements

A.M. Express, Inc & Red Pine Equipment. is an equal opportunity employer.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person