Heavy Equipment Shop Foreman (Diesel Mechanic Lead)

Location: Gillette, WY
Pay: $35–$40 per hour + Overtime
Schedule: Monday–Friday | Typically 6:00 AM – 5:00/6:00 PM
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision

On behalf of our client, we are seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Mechanic/Shop Foreman to oversee daily operations across our maintenance shops in Gillette, Wyoming. This is a working supervisor role responsible for leading mechanics and shop labor while actively performing diagnostics, repairs, and preventive maintenance on diesel-powered heavy construction equipment and fleet vehicles.

As our client's company continues to grow, they need a hands-on leader who can help keep equipment running efficiently while developing and supporting our team of mechanics. This role is ideal for someone with strong diesel and heavy equipment repair experience who also enjoys mentoring technicians and improving shop operations.

Our equipment operates across the state of Wyoming, so when machinery is in the shop, quality preventative maintenance and attention to detail are critical.

• Supervise daily operations across three maintenance shops, including equipment repair and welding operations.

• Assign and prioritize work for mechanics and shop personnel based on operational needs.

• Provide leadership, mentoring, and technical guidance to mechanics and shop laborers.

• Promote a team-oriented culture focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

• Support employee development and apprenticeship programs.

• Perform advanced diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repairs on diesel-powered heavy equipment including:

  • Excavators

  • Dozers

  • Motor graders

  • Wheel loaders

  • Haul trucks

  • Compactors

  • Fleet trucks and vehicles (diesel and gas)

• Repair or replace engines, hydraulic systems, transmissions, electrical systems, brake systems, and fuel systems.

• Fabricate and replace hydraulic hoses, fittings, and seals.

• Perform welding, cutting, and fabrication when needed.

• Oversee and perform preventive maintenance services, including:

  • Lubrication

  • Fluid changes

  • Filter replacements

  • Equipment inspections

• Help plan and schedule maintenance to minimize downtime and extend equipment life.

• Work closely with operations leaders to ensure equipment is ready for field deployment.

• Document repairs, inspections, and maintenance in work orders or maintenance systems.

• Assist with tracking parts inventory, ordering materials, and maintaining shop supplies.

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

• Ensure compliance with company safety procedures including lockout/tagout and PPE requirements.

• 5+ years of experience as a diesel, fleet, or heavy equipment mechanic

• Previous leadership experience as a foreman, lead mechanic, or supervisor

• Strong diagnostic and repair experience with:

  • Diesel engines

  • Hydraulics

  • Electrical systems

  • Heavy equipment components

• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and wiring diagrams

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Ability to manage workflow and prioritize multiple repair projects

• Must supply and maintain personal basic mechanic hand tools

• Technical training in diesel technology, heavy equipment repair, or automotive technology

• Experience working on Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, Ford, or GM equipment

• ASE certifications (Medium/Heavy Truck, Automotive, or Heavy Equipment)

• CDL license

• Experience with diagnostic software or maintenance tracking systems

Equivalent work experience may be considered in place of certifications.

• Work is performed in shop environments with heavy equipment and machinery

• Exposure to noise, vibration, dust, and diesel equipment

• Work schedule typically Monday–Friday with overtime available

• Ability to lift 50–75 lbs regularly (up to 100 lbs with assistance)

• Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, climbing, and working around heavy equipment

• Ability to work in confined spaces and elevated areas