Description
Mechanic
Contractual Starting Rate: $65,326
The City of Des Plaines Public Works & Engineering Department is seeking a skilled and motivated Mechanic to join our Fleet Maintenance team. In this role, you’ll perform highly skilled repairs and preventative maintenance on a wide range of City vehicles and equipment, including police squads, fire apparatus, heavy-duty trucks, and more. If you have a passion for hands-on mechanical work, problem-solving, and keeping vital fleet operations running smoothly, this position offers long-term stability and an opportunity to make a direct impact in our community.
Responsibilities:
Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues on automobiles, light/heavy-duty trucks, tractors, police vehicles, fire apparatus, and related City equipment.
Inspect, repair, and maintain components including brakes, transmissions, differentials, electrical systems, HVAC systems, and hydraulic controls.
Fabricate, weld, and perform minor body repair and painting on vehicles and equipment.
Road test vehicles to confirm proper operation and ensure safety standards are met before returning equipment to service.
Follow all established safety procedures, promptly report unsafe conditions or accidents, and promote a culture of workplace safety.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or GED required; vocational/technical training in auto mechanics strongly preferred.
Minimum of 3 year’s experience repairing and maintaining automotive, diesel, or heavy equipment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Valid Illinois CDL Class A license with air brake and tanker endorsements (or ability to obtain within 120 days of employment).
Must provide and maintain a complete set of mechanic’s tools.
Strong knowledge of vehicle diagnostics, hydraulics, electrical systems, and general garage practices.
Ability to work on-call, overtime, and outside of normal business hours as required for emergencies.
Effective oral communication skills and the ability to establish positive working relationships with staff across departments.
Preferred Certifications:
ASE Certifications in areas such as Engine Repair, Suspension and Steering, Brakes, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Heating and Air Conditioning, and Engine Performance.
Medium/Heavy Truck ASE Certifications.
Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) Certification.
Why Des Plaines?
Our community is vibrant, diverse and at the center of commerce and transportation.
Our organization is mission-driven, financially stable and professionally managed.
We offer a generous benefits package, IMRF pension, post-retirement health savings plan & deferred compensation plans.
Check Out Our Incredible Benefits Package!
Comprehensive Healthcare: Low-cost medical, dental, and optical insurance options for employees and dependents.
Generous Paid Leave: Vacation, personal time, sick leave, and holidays to support work-life balance.
Tuition Reimbursement: For job relevant degrees, the City pays tuition for up to two classes per semester (including summer programs).
Retirement Security: Participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).
Additional Financial Benefits:
Employer-paid life insurance
Retirement Health Savings Account
Transportation Spending Account
457 Deferred Compensation Plan
Roth IRA
Optional supplemental life insurance
Become part of the City of Des Plaines team and help keep our fleet running safely, reliably, and ready to serve the community.
Learn more and see the full job description (here).
Deadline: October 13th, 2025
