American Water Works Association is hiring: Mechanic in Des Plaines

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.

Deadline: October 13th, 2025