Diesel Machinist
We’re seeking a skilled and motivated Diesel Machinist to join our growing team. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys every aspect of diesel engines and takes pride in producing high-quality work with exceptional precision and attention to detail.
As a Diesel Machinist, you’ll work closely with our Lead Machinist rebuilding some of the largest Caterpillar mining engines in the world. You’ll inspect, measure, machine, repair, and prepare critical engine components using precision measuring equipment and specialized machining equipment while ensuring every component meets Caterpillar specifications before returning to assembly.
This role requires someone who enjoys solving mechanical problems, working with precision measuring tools, documenting inspection findings, and continually expanding their knowledge of Caterpillar diesel engines and remanufacturing processes. Success in this position requires excellent communication, organization, accountability, and a commitment to safety and quality craftsmanship.
STARTING WAGE
$40 hr
HOURS PER WEEK
40+
PAY FREQUENCY
Weekly
410K MATCHING
4%
Required Responsibilities
- Work closely with the Lead Machinist to inspect, repair, and prepare diesel engine components for remanufacturing.
- Inspect engine blocks, crankshafts, camshafts, cylinder heads, connecting rods, and additional engine components for wear, damage, and serviceability.
- Use precision measuring equipment including outside micrometers, inside micrometers, dial bore gauges, calipers, depth gauges, profilometers, and additional inspection equipment to verify all components meet Caterpillar specifications.
- Work independently while contributing positively to the overall production team.
- Measure engine blocks, deck heights, cylinder bores, crankshaft journals, camshaft journals, bearing bores, and other critical dimensions.
- Operate Rottler machining equipment to perform block resurfacing, counter-boring, repair sleeves, line boring, and additional machining operations.
- Polish crankshafts and camshafts using crankshaft polishers and manual lathes.
- Remove broken bolts, repair damaged threads, and perform component repairs as required.
- Demonstrate coachability, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning.
- Use oxy-acetylene equipment and liquid nitrogen safely to assist with component removal and installation.
- Document inspection findings with detailed reports, measurements, and photographs.
- Track job progress and identify material requirements before production delays occur.
- Organize, stage, and prepare engine components ahead of scheduled rebuilds.
- Maintain clean, organized workstations and properly maintain machining equipment and precision measuring tools.
- Perform additional duties assigned by management.
- Safely operate forklifts, overhead cranes, and material handling equipment.
- Follow all company PPE requirements and safety procedures without exception.
- Work efficiently to meet production schedules while maintaining quality standards.
- Maintain a high level of communication with management and fellow technicians.
- Maintain a high level of communication with management and fellow technicians.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid driver's license.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of precision measurements and component sizing.
- Strong mathematical and problem-solving skills.
- Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office experience preferred).
- Experience operating Rottler CNC machining (Or Comperable) equipment for engine block machining.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to inspect, measure, and evaluate Caterpillar engine components using precision measuring equipment.
- Thorough understanding of Caterpillar diesel engine remanufacturing processes.
- Ability to interpret and apply Caterpillar Reuse Criteria.
- Knowledge of Caterpillar OEM specifications and reassembly standards.
- Experience operating forklifts and overhead cranes or the ability to become certified.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating with others.
- Strong critical thinking, troubleshooting, and conflict resolution skills.
- Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities in a fast-paced production environment.
- Ability to proactively identify issues before they impact production.
- Ability to bend, kneel, climb, and safely lift up to 75 pounds throughout the workday.
- Ability to work safely in a loud industrial environment while consistently following PPE requirements.
- Ability to prioritize multiple projects while working with minimal supervision.
Preferred Qualifications
- Two or more years of experience operating manual lathes.
- Previous experience operating engine machining equipment.
- Trade school or diesel technology education.
- Experience with Caterpillar C18, C27, C32, C175, and 3500 Series engines.
- Three to five years of Caterpillar diesel engine experience.
- Welding or light fabrication experience is a plus.
- Experience cleaning, repairing, and reconditioning engine components to Caterpillar Reuse Criteria.
- Experience removing, rebuilding, and installing major diesel engine components.
- Knowledge of Caterpillar engine part identification and component applications.
- Experience using Microsoft Office and digital inspection documentation.
- Previous experience in diesel engine remanufacturing or heavy equipment repair.
Benefits
- Full on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced diesel technicians
- A ten-year career path within a world-class diesel remanufacturing facility
- Competitive hourly wage with rapid advancement potential
- All tools are provided at no expense
- A clean, professional, and safety-first work environment
- Full hour for lunch
- On-site gym
- Monday to Friday schedule
- No assembly line work, you’ll learn how to completely tear down and rebuild the engines
- No field work, you’ll be working from our 40,000 sf facility built in 2023
- After a 90-day probationary period, benefits that include:
- 100% employer provided insurance plan options
- Paid time off
- Paid holidays
- 401(k) and matching after the first year
Ready to Work Here?
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of careers are available at Independent Rebuild Specialist?
We hire for a variety of roles and experience levels, including engine technicians, machinists, field service technicians, diesel apprentices, and other technical and support positions. Due to the specialized nature of our work, most positions offer hands-on experience with high-horsepower engines and rebuild processes that are not commonly found in general repair shops.
What kind of training will I receive when I join the team?
Training is hands-on and designed to build comprehensive knowledge of the engines and rebuild process. During the first six months, entry-level technicians focus primarily on teardown to learn the shop, the engines, and the standards we expect. During months seven through twelve, they begin taking on light assembly work as their skills and understanding develop.
That first year is the foundation of our 10-year career plan. As technicians progress, they take on greater responsibility in inspection, measurement, assembly, diagnostics, quality control, mentoring, and leadership. The goal is to give employees a clear path from entry-level technician to highly skilled senior and master-level roles.
What opportunities are available for experienced diesel mechanics and machinists?
If you are an experienced diesel mechanic or machinist, your background may be a strong fit for our specialized CAT 3500 and C175 engine work. We look for experienced candidates who can contribute in areas such as advanced rebuilding, machining, diagnostics, inspection, field support, and technical leadership.
Visit our Careers page to view current openings. If you do not see a position that matches your experience, email your resume to careers@indrebuild.com along with a brief introduction explaining your background, the types of roles you are best suited for, and why you are interested in joining Independent Rebuild Specialist.
What benefits does Independent Rebuild Specialist offer employees?
Specific benefits vary by position and location, but most roles include employer-paid insurance options, a 401(k) match after the applicable eligibility period, uniforms, paid holidays, and access to our on-site gym, among other benefits. Review the current job posting for the complete benefits available with each position.
Where are Independent Rebuild Specialist positions located, and what are the typical work schedules?
Shop-based positions are located at our purpose-built 40,000-square-foot headquarters in Brighton, Colorado, which opened in 2023. These roles are on-site Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Field service roles are based at client sites, including Canadian oil sands operations, and typically require two-week rotations with 12-hour shifts.
What qualities do you look for when hiring technicians and other team members?
We look for people who are dependable, coachable, detail-oriented, accountable, and serious about doing quality work. Mechanical aptitude and technical skill are important, but so are consistency, professionalism, willingness to learn, teamwork, and pride in the finished product.