Maintenance Shop Foreman/Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Full Time

Management

North Charleston, SC, US

Position Summary

The Maintenance Shop Foreman / Heavy Equipment Mechanic is a working supervisor responsible for leading the daily operations of the maintenance shop while performing advanced diagnostics, repairs, and preventive maintenance on heavy equipment, trucks, and diesel-powered machinery. This position balances hands-on mechanical work with shop leadership to ensure equipment is repaired safely, efficiently, and with minimal downtime.

The Foreman directs shop workflow, mentors mechanics, coordinates repairs, maintains accurate maintenance records, and ensures compliance with company safety policies and regulatory requirements while remaining an active member of the maintenance team.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Hands-On Maintenance & Repairs

• Perform preventive maintenance and major repairs on heavy equipment, trucks, trailers, and support equipment.

• Diagnose and repair diesel engines, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, drivetrains, brakes, steering, and HVAC systems.

• Utilize OEM diagnostic software and electronic testing equipment.

• Perform engine, transmission, hydraulic pump, and component rebuilds as needed.

• Conduct inspections and testing to ensure equipment meets manufacturer specifications.

• Complete field service repairs when necessary.

• Maintain detailed repair records, work orders, and equipment histories.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Shop Leadership

• Lead the daily activities of mechanics and shop personnel.

• Assign work based on priorities, equipment availability, and operational needs.

• Assist mechanics with difficult diagnostics and complex repairs.

• Inspect completed work to ensure quality and compliance with company standards.

• Monitor shop productivity and minimize equipment downtime.

• Train and mentor mechanics while promoting professional development.

• Assist with hiring, onboarding, coaching, and performance management.

Shop Operations

• Coordinate preventive maintenance schedules.

• Prioritize repair work based on operational needs.

• Manage work orders from initiation through completion.

• Coordinate with operations regarding equipment availability.

• Communicate repair status and estimated completion times.

• Assist in developing maintenance schedules and long-term fleet planning.

Parts & Inventory

• Coordinate parts ordering with Purchasing.

• Ensure required parts are available before repairs begin.

• Maintain inventory of commonly used parts and shop supplies.

• Process warranty claims, core returns, and vendor returns.

• Monitor tool inventories and shop equipment.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, EPA, and company safety requirements.

• Enforce PPE requirements and safe work practices.

• Conduct toolbox talks and safety meetings.

• Investigate equipment failures and safety incidents.

• Maintain documentation for inspections and regulatory compliance.

• Ensure proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate maintenance records.

• Approve completed work orders.

• Track labor hours, repair costs, and equipment downtime.

• Monitor shop productivity and maintenance KPIs.

• Assist in budget planning and cost control.

• Prepare reports on fleet maintenance performance.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.

• Diesel Technology or Heavy Equipment Technology preferred.

Experience

• Minimum five (5) years of heavy equipment diesel mechanic experience.

• Minimum two (2) years of supervisory, lead mechanic, or foreman experience preferred.

• Experience repairing construction equipment, off-road equipment, and heavy trucks.

Preferred Certifications

• ASE Certifications

• OEM Certifications (CAT, Cummins, John Deere, Komatsu, Volvo, etc.)

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30

• CDL preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Advanced diesel engine diagnostics

• Hydraulic troubleshooting

• Electrical diagnostics

• Welding and fabrication experience preferred

• Ability to read service manuals and schematics

• Strong leadership and coaching skills

• Excellent organizational and communication skills

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities

• Computer proficiency with maintenance management systems

• Commitment to safety and quality workmanship

Physical Requirements

• Lift up to 75 pounds.

• Stand, bend, kneel, climb, and work in confined spaces.

• Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Ability to respond to emergency breakdowns outside normal business hours when required.

Working Conditions

• Combination of maintenance shop, equipment yard, and field service environments.

• Exposure to heavy equipment, noise, vibration, dust, fuels, lubricants, and weather conditions.

• Overtime, weekends, and occasional on-call work may be required.

Core Competencies

• Leadership

• Mechanical Expertise

• Safety Leadership

• Accountability

• Communication

• Planning & Organization

• Customer Service

• Team Development

• Quality Focus

• Continuous Improvement