Entry-Level Diesel Technician

Job Title: Entry-Level Diesel Mechanic
Location: Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota
Company: I-State Truck Center
Pay Range: $20.00-24.00/Hour

I-State Truck Center is a leading provider of heavy-duty truck sales, parts, and service in the Midwest, specializing in Freightliner, Western Star, and Detroit Diesel products. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, we serve commercial fleets, owner-operators, and businesses across Minnesota and beyond. Our Inver Grove Heights location offers a dynamic environment for skilled tradespeople to grow their careers.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in diesel engine repair, diagnostics, and maintenance, with a focus on delivering high-quality service to ensure customer satisfaction. This role offers highly competitive wages and opportunities for career growth in a fast-paced work environment.

Job Summary

We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Diesel Mechanic to join our Inver Grove Heights service team. This role is ideal for a recent graduate from a diesel technology program or someone with 1–2 years of hands-on experience in diesel repair. You’ll work alongside seasoned technicians performing preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on Class 6–8 trucks and trailers. If you’re eager to apply your foundational skills while continuing to learn advanced techniques, this is an excellent opportunity to build a long-term career in heavy-duty diesel service.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine inspections, oil changes, and preventive maintenance on diesel engines, transmissions, brakes, and electrical systems.
• Assist senior technicians with diagnostics using tools such as OBD scanners, multimeters, and air gauges.
• Disassemble, repair, and reassemble components including fuel systems, aftertreatment systems, and suspension components under supervision.
• Accurately document all work performed using digital service management software.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in compliance with company policies and OSHA standards.
• Coordinate with the parts department to identify needed components.
• Participate in on-the-job training and manufacturer certification programs.

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Technical diploma or certification in automotive, diesel mechanics, or heavy-duty truck repair preferred

Experience:

• 1–2 years of experience working on light-duty automotive or heavy-duty diesel trucks (Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Volvo, Mack, etc.)

Skills:

• Basic understanding of diesel engine systems, air brakes, and hydraulics
• Familiarity with OEM diagnostic platforms (Cummins Insite, Detroit Diesel DiagnosticLink, etc.)
• Ability to read service manuals, wiring diagrams, and schematics
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and safety-first mindset
• Dependable attendance and team-oriented attitude

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift 50–75 lbs
• Ability to work in confined spaces and varying shop conditions

Preferred Skills

• Experience with Freightliner and Detroit Diesel platforms
• Exposure to diagnostic software such as DiagnosticLink or Jaltest
• Basic welding or fabrication experience a plus

Employee Benefits

• Competitive wages – be paid your worth
• Uniforms provided and cleaned
• Tool program available
• Tuition assistance for ongoing education and career growth
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting the first of the month following hire
• PTO accrual starting day one
• 6 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability
• Company-paid life insurance
• Healthiest You virtual healthcare
• PPE reimbursement (safety glasses and safety boots)
• Pet insurance
• Employee discounts on products and services
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – free 24/7 access
• Paid health and wellness screening

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties and may be modified at any time.

Interstate Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

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