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Heavy Equipment Technician I/II

Humboldt County, CA

Eureka, CA

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JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$24.64–$34.93 Per Hour
SKILLS
Acceptance Testing, Arc Welding, Asphalt Paver, Background Investigation, Backhoe Loader, Blueprints, Braking Systems, Bulldozer, Calculators, California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS), Class A License, Communication Skills, Computer Software, Computer Systems, Construction Equipment, Content Structure, Crane, Customer Support/Service, Data Entry, Diesel Engine, Driver's License, Electrical Engineering, Electricity, Employee Assistance Plan, English Language, Equipment Maintenance/Repair, Gas Welding, Grader, Hand Tools, Hazard Analysis, Hazardous Materials Clean-Up, Health Insurance, Heavy Equipment/Vehicles, Human Factors, Human Resources, Hydraulic Engineering, Identify Issues, Keyboards, Law Enforcement, Life Insurance, Loaders, Maintain Compliance, Maintenance Services, Manual Dexterity, Mathematics, Motor Grader, OSHA, Office Equipment, Operating Systems, Operations Processes, Painting (Facilities and Maintenance), People Management, Project/Program Coordination, Psychology, Public Works, Pumps, Quality Control, Quality Management, Quality Metrics, Record Keeping, Regulations, Reporting Skills, Road Tests, Roadway Construction, Safety Equipment, Safety/Work Safety, Schematics, Staff Training, Test Equipment, Testing, Truck Driver, United States Citizen, User Documentation, Welding
LOCATION
Eureka, CA
POSTED
Today
Salary: $24.64 - $34.93 Hourly
Location : Eureka, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 25-00127
Department: Public Works
Division: 330 - Roads-Equipment Maintenance
Opening Date: 12/12/2025
Closing Date: Continuous

DEFINITION
Please note:
  • This recruitment is open until filled. Human Resources reserves the right to close this recruitment at any time. Applications will be collected and forwarded to the department on a weekly basis.
DEFINITION
Under immediate (Heavy Equipment Technician I) to general (Heavy Equipment Technician II) supervision, inspects, maintains, repairs, and services heavy and light road maintenance and construction equipment; operates a variety of hand, power, and shop tools; prepares and maintains records of service and repairs and time and materials used in each project; and performs related duties as assigned..
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives immediate (Heavy Equipment Technician I)to general (Heavy Equipment Technician II) supervision from Heavy Equipment Maintenance Supervisor. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Heavy Equipment Technician I: This is the entry-level classification in the Heavy Equipment Technician series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine maintenance and repair of a wide variety of motorized equipment. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.
Heavy Equipment Technician II: This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Technician series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

This class is distinguished from Heavy Equipment Maintenance Supervisor in that the latter assigns, directs and reviews the work of mechanics and others and performs the most difficult troubleshooting and repair work.
Positions in the Heavy Equipment Technician I/II class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II level are typically filled by advancement from the I level after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for, and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of, the higher-level classification.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignment of different positions.

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity for entry-level (I-level) positions.
  • Performs skilled maintenance and repair of heavy and light equipment such as trucks, tractors, graders and dozers; diagnoses, repairs and overhauls gas and diesel engines.
  • Re-lines, rebushes and rebuilds cams, brake pots, valves and related parts of braking systems.
  • Ensure compliance with regulated inspections such as Cal OSHA Boom Inspections and CHP BIT Inspections.
  • Performs emissions tests on heavy equipment.
  • Performs major and minor repairs of suspension, walking beams and torque arms.
  • Repairs and replaces driveline components; overhauls rear ends, reduction power dividers, clutch assemblies, universal joints, drive shafts and related components.
  • Repairs and maintains manual, automatic, and power shift transmissions, torque converters and related components.
  • Diagnoses, repairs, and maintains brakes, hydraulic systems and associated power take-off equipment.
  • Rebuilds, repairs, and adjusts hydraulic pumps, cylinders, control valves, motors and related components.
  • Diagnoses and repairs emissions systems.
  • Diagnoses and repairs power and manual steering systems, electrical systems, starters, generators and related systems, components, and parts.
  • Diagnoses and repairs, cleans, adjusts, and installs fuel, ignition, and cooling systems.
  • Conducts safety checks and operational tests on light, heavy and related equipment.
  • Road tests equipment; drives trucks or equipment as required; inspects vehicles in the shop and field.
  • Reads and interprets manuals, drawings and specifications; estimates labor, material and equipment and orders parts required to complete assignments.
  • Makes oral and written reports of work performed; completes forms and keeps accurate maintenance records.
  • Welds and fabricates new and modified parts for truck bodies and similar equipment; installs and repairs power take-off equipment such as small electric cranes, hoists and small hydraulic lift equipment.
  • Uses and maintains a full set of hand, power and shop tools and equipment related to the work.
  • Observes safe work methods and utilizes safety equipment related to the work; safely handles and disposes of hazardous waste materials.
  • Performs skilled maintenance and repair of heavy-duty diesel trucks and road construction heavy equipment such as motor-graders, loaders, backhoes, tractors and various asphalt paving equipment, and snow removal equipment.
  • Diagnoses, maintains and repairs hydraulic and air-brakes systems, replaces air brake components i.e. brake pots/air chambers, linings, pads, air lines and valves and related components.
  • Diagnoses, repairs, rebuilds and maintains various hydraulic operating systems, pumps, valves, hose fabrication and cylinders and related components.
QUALIFICATIONS
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
  • Operation and maintenance of a variety of hand, power, and shop tools and equipment common to the field, including electric arc and gas welding equipment.
  • Techniques, methods, materials, tools and equipment used in the overhaul, repair and maintenance of general vehicles and equipment in course of duty assignments.
  • Safe work methods and safety regulations pertaining to the work.
  • Troubleshoot and determine appropriate action in the maintenance and repair of equipment.
  • Basic mathematical principles.
  • Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and ordinances relevant to the area(s) of responsibility.
  • Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
  • The structure and content of the English language to effectively perform the work.
  • Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
Ability to:
  • Diagnose and repair a wide variety of light and heavy equipment, vehicles, and equipment.
  • Operate and maintain a variety of hand, power, and shop tools and equipment used in the work.
  • Estimate necessary materials and equipment to complete assignments.
  • Read and interpret manuals, specifications, and drawings.
  • Read and interpret hydraulic and electrical schematics and fabrication blueprints.
  • Maintain accurate logs, records, and basic written records of work performed.
  • Make accurate arithmetic calculations.
  • Inspect the work of others and maintain established quality control standards.
  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
  • Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Minimum Qualifications:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade
and
Heavy Equipment Technician I: Two (2) years of experience in the maintenance and repair of vehicles and/or heavy construction equipment.
Heavy Equipment Technician II: Two (2) years of experience in the maintenance and repair of vehicles and/or heavy construction equipment at a level equivalent to the County's class of Heavy Equipment Technician I.

Licenses and Certifications:
  • Must possess a valid US driver's license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver's license following hire date per California DMV regulations.
  • Must possess a Class A driver's license with tanker endorsement within six (6) months of hire at the I level. Must possess a Class A driver's license prior to hire at the II level.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Mobility to work in a standard shop setting.
  • Use standard office equipment, including a computer, and to operate a motor vehicle to visit various County sites.
  • Strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work, to work around machines, to climb and descend ladders, and to operate varied hand and power tools, equipment, and machinery.
  • Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone.
  • Standing and walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards is frequently required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate above-mentioned tools and equipment.
  • Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb to perform work and inspect work sites.
  • Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 100 pounds, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
  • Employees work in a maintenance shop environment and are exposed to loud noise levels, vibration, chemicals, dust, paint fumes, mechanical and electrical hazards, grease, oils, solvents, machinery with extremely hot surfaces and moving parts, moving objects or other vehicles, as well as cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, and road hazards.
  • Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Pre-employment screening measures are required before an offer of employment can be made for this position (i.e. background screening, physical examination, drug testing, etc.).
  • This is a DOT (Department of Transportation) covered classification and is subject to random drug and/or alcohol screening.
WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at

Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.

It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.

Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.
SELECTION PROCEDURE

The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to fill out the application?
  • You should allow 30 - 45 minutes to fill out your application.
Can I change my application after submitting it?
  • No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.
How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?
  • You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you don't miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your application's progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-476-2349 or personnel@co.humboldt.ca.us.
Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?
  • Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways - oftentimes, outside of formal institutions - and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.

If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.
MEDICAL EXAMINATION

A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.
OTHER EXAMINATIONS

Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.
LICENSES

Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.
Please Note: Extra Help positions are non-benefitted but may be eligible to purchase health insurance upon meeting the hours worked requirement under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

RETIREMENT
The County of Humboldt participates in the CalPERS, with both the County and the employee making contributions toward the employee's retirement.

CalPERS Retirement Program:
  • Tier I - Prior to 7/5/2012: 2.7% @ 55
  • Tier II - Post 7/6/2012: 2% @ 55
  • Tier III - Post 1/1/2013: 2% @ 62
Please note that these are the tiers available at the County of Humboldt. Tier determination is made by CalPERS. Please reach out to Personnel if you have questions regarding tier placement.

COMPREHESIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE
Our generous benefits package includes:
  • Health Insurance
    • Medical: Multiple plan options available through CalPERS
    • County covers majority of employee premium and contributes to dependent coverage
  • Additional Insurance Coverage
    • Dental: Full premium coverage for employees and all dependents
    • Vision: Full premium coverage for employees and eligible dependents
  • County-Provided Benefits
    • Life Insurance
    • Longevity Pay
    • Educational Reimbursement
    • Deferred Compensation
    • Employee Assistance Program
    • Bus Pass Program
Optional Benefits
Employees may elect to purchase additional coverage including:
  • Supplemental Life Insurance with guaranteed issuance period at time of hire
  • Flexible Spending Accounts

VACATION
1 - 3 completed years of service = 12 days (192-hour cap)
4 - 10 completed years of service = 15 days (240-hour cap)
11 - 15 completed years of service = 20 days (320-hour cap)
16 - 20 completed years of service = 25 days (400-hour cap)
21+ completed years of service = 30 days (480-hour cap)

HOLIDAYS
Employees earn 15 paid holidays per year (specific dates as defined in their specific Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)), including 2 personal holidays.

SICK LEAVE
Employees earn 12 sick days per year with an unlimited cap on sick day accumulation.

PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS
The County is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness certified employer.

INCENTIVE PAY
County employees may be eligible for additional incentive pay, such as on-call pay, shift differential pay, locked facility pay, or annual uniform allowance, as defined in their specific MOU.
Please visit the County of Humboldt Human Resources website at for more information on benefits, labor agreements, and job opportunities.
01

This position requires driving on behalf of the County of Humboldt. Do you possess, or can you obtain, a valid California driver's license, prior to your date of hire per California Department of Motor Vehicle regulations?
  • Yes
  • No

02

Please select the response that most accurately describes your experience in the maintenance and repair of vehicles and/or heavy construction equipment.
  • No experience
  • Less than 2 years
  • 2-4 years
  • 4 or more years

03

Any other coursework, training or experience you would like to add that directly relates to this position.
Required Question

About the Company

H

Humboldt County, CA