What are the responsibilities and job description for the Heavy Equipment Mechanic position at Freeman Corporation?
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
ABOUT THE FREEMAN CORPORATION
The Freeman Corporation is a family-owned wood veneer manufacturer with more than 100 years of history, headquartered in Winchester, Kentucky. We continue to make significant investments to remain the supplier of choice for leading manufacturers worldwide in the flooring, door, hardwood plywood, furniture, cabinet, and related industries. Freeman Corporation proudly employs approximately 200 dedicated team members.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Heavy Equipment Mechanic is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of company-owned mobile equipment used throughout the manufacturing facility. This role ensures the reliability, safety, and operational readiness of critical assets including loaders, excavators, forklifts, skid steers, and other material handling equipment. The mechanic will diagnose mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and engine-related issues and perform both preventative maintenance and corrective repairs to minimize downtime and maintain safe operations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Perform routine preventive maintenance on mobile equipment including loaders, excavators, forklifts, skid steers, and other material handling equipment.
- Inspect equipment regularly to identify mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, or safety-related issues before failures occur.
- Diagnose and repair engine, hydraulic, electrical, braking, and transmission systems.
- Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions using diagnostic tools, schematics, and technical manuals.
- Replace or repair worn or damaged components such as hoses, pumps, cylinders, bearings, belts, and electrical components.
- Conduct safety inspections and ensure all equipment meets company and regulatory safety standards.
- Respond to equipment breakdowns quickly to minimize operational downtime.
- Maintain accurate maintenance records, work orders, and parts usage documentation.
- Work with the maintenance manager to schedule repairs and preventive maintenance tasks.
- Operate equipment as needed to test functionality and verify successful repairs.
- Maintain a clean and organized maintenance work area and follow proper tool and equipment procedures.
- Follow all company safety policies including lockout/tagout procedures and proper PPE usage.
- Assist with inventory control and identification of required replacement parts.
- Support other maintenance personnel and assist with facility or production equipment repairs when required.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Previous experience working as a heavy equipment, diesel, or mobile equipment mechanic in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
- Experience servicing equipment such as loaders, excavators, forklifts, skid steers, telehandlers, and other off-road equipment.
- Strong knowledge of diesel engines, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, and drivetrain components.
- Ability to read and interpret equipment manuals, technical diagrams, and hydraulic/electrical schematics.
- Experience using diagnostic software or electronic troubleshooting tools for modern diesel equipment.
- Experience operating heavy equipment safely for testing and diagnostics.
- Basic computer skills for completing work orders, maintenance records, and parts tracking systems.
- Knowledge of OSHA safety standards and safe work practices in an industrial environment.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Welding and fabrication experience for minor repairs and modifications.
- Experience troubleshooting and repairing hydraulic pumps, cylinders, valves, and hoses.
- Familiarity with equipment brands such as Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, Case, Volvo, or similar heavy equipment manufacturers.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
- Competitive hourly commensurate based with skills and experience
- Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and referral program