Mechanic

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for the inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of equipment and vehicles used throughout Park District operations, including golf course, parks, landscaping, and other departmental operations. Performs major and minor repairs and preventative maintenance on a variety of gasoline, diesel, and electric-powered equipment and vehicles.

The Mechanic will be assigned a primary area of responsibility based on operational needs, experience, and qualifications, but is expected to assist with equipment and repair needs across the Park District. The position works collaboratively with other mechanics and department staff to ensure equipment is properly maintained, safe, reliable, and available when needed.

Equipment may include, but is not limited to, golf course turf equipment, greens mowers, fairway mowers, rough mowers, commercial mowers, all-in-one equipment, fleet trucks, utility vehicles, golf carts, tractors, skid steers/Bobcats, trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, and other small-engine, turf, utility, and maintenance equipment.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & TRAINING

High school diploma or equivalent.

Formal training from an accredited technical school, college, vocational program, or related mechanical/equipment training OR a minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience as a mechanic, equipment technician, small-engine mechanic, automotive mechanic, or in a closely related field.

Experience working with gasoline, diesel, and/or electric-powered equipment and vehicles.

Experience with commercial turf equipment, small engines, utility vehicles, trucks, heavy equipment, or related equipment is preferred. Experience with electrical and hydraulic systems is desirable.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

First Aid, CPR, and AED certification required within three (3) months of hire.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Knowledge of gasoline and diesel engines ranging from two-cycle and small engines used in handheld equipment, such as trimmers and blowers, to larger commercial engines used in tractors, trucks, skid steers, and other heavy equipment.

Working knowledge of reel and rotary mower systems, transmissions, drivetrains, and related mechanical components. Familiarity with electrical and hydraulic systems is desirable.

Demonstrated ability to diagnose, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair a variety of vehicles, equipment, and small engines.

Ability to safely and effectively operate hand tools, power tools, shop equipment, and diagnostic equipment necessary to perform mechanical repairs. Equipment may include, but is not limited to, drill presses, grinders, hand drills, saws, welding equipment, acetylene torches, volt meters, hydraulic jacks, battery chargers, and other tools commonly used in mechanical repair.

Ability to safely operate and test equipment and vehicles being repaired, including mowers, tractors, turf vehicles, utility vehicles, trucks, skid steers/Bobcats, and other Park District equipment, to diagnose problems and verify completed repairs.

Ability to read and understand equipment manuals, service manuals, wiring diagrams, parts diagrams, and manufacturer maintenance and repair specifications.

Ability to identify equipment problems and determine appropriate repairs, replacement parts, tools, and materials needed to complete the work.

Ability to work independently and effectively with other mechanics, supervisors, and department staff.

Ability to prioritize work and respond to equipment repair needs based on seasonal demands, operational priorities, and workload.

Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation related to equipment maintenance and repairs.

Bilingual skills in Spanish are desirable.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Perform preventive maintenance, inspections, and repairs on Park District vehicles, equipment, and machinery used in golf course, park, landscaping, and other departmental operations.

Develop, maintain, and document preventative maintenance schedules and service records for vehicles and equipment.

Diagnose and repair gasoline, diesel, electric, and small-engine equipment and vehicles.

Maintain and repair commercial mowing and turf equipment, including reel and rotary-type mowing equipment, greens mowers, fairway mowers, rough mowers, and other specialized turf equipment.

Maintain and repair trucks, utility vehicles, golf carts, tractors, skid steers/Bobcats, and other non-guest-carrying vehicles and equipment.

Maintain and repair small-engine equipment, including trimmers, blowers, edgers, chainsaws, and other handheld equipment.

Perform routine service and maintenance, including oil and filter changes, lubrication, belt replacement, battery maintenance, blade sharpening, tire service, and other manufacturer-recommended maintenance.

Troubleshoot mechanical, fuel, transmission, drivetrain, and other equipment-related systems. Assist with electrical and hydraulic troubleshooting and repairs as appropriate.

Maintain, organize, and inventory tools, equipment, parts, fluids, and other mechanical supplies.

Identify parts and materials needed for repairs and coordinate the purchase or acquisition of replacement parts and supplies.

Maintain accurate records of equipment maintenance, repairs, parts, and service history.

Assist with equipment preparation, setup, seasonal maintenance, winterization, and storage.

Assist Golf Course and Park Department staff with equipment-related needs, maintenance projects, construction, landscaping, and other operational activities as needed.

Work cooperatively with other mechanics and provide assistance across Park District operations based on seasonal workload and operational priorities.

Safely operate equipment and vehicles as necessary to diagnose mechanical problems and test completed repairs.

Follow all applicable safety procedures, manufacturer recommendations, and Park District policies.

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, including the mechanic shop, tools, equipment, and storage areas.

Communicate equipment conditions, repair needs, safety concerns, and maintenance recommendations to supervisors.

Perform other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires the ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

WORK ASSIGNMENT:

The Park District anticipates hiring multiple Mechanics who will work as a team. Each Mechanic may be assigned a primary area of responsibility, such as Golf Course or Parks, based on operational needs, qualifications, experience, and workload.

Primary assignments are not intended to limit an employee's responsibilities to a single department. Mechanics may be required to assist with equipment, vehicles, and repairs throughout the Park District. Work assignments may change seasonally or as operational needs dictate.

BENEFITS:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Medical & Dependent Care FSA

Basic & Voluntary Life Insurance

IMRF Pension

AFLAC Plans

457 Retirement Plan

Vacation, Personal, and Sick Time

Paid Holidays

Employee Wellness Programs and Incentives

Employee Recognition Programs

Discounts at our Golf Course

Season Passes to our Aquatic Center

Free or Discounted Prices for our Fitness & Special Event Programs

HOURS:

The Mechanic is expected to maintain a regular work schedule that meets the needs of Park District operations. Work schedules may vary based on seasonal demands, operational needs, equipment breakdowns, and workload. Evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required at times. Occasional overtime or adjusted work schedules may be necessary.

COMPENSATION:

$25.50 - $32.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.