Job Title: Heavy Equipment Mechanic (Grade 3)
Location: Houston, TX and Onsite Project Locations (Project location will be determined upon hiring)
Reports to: Equipment Operations Manager
Compensation Range: $30-$45 hourly (depending on location, experience, skills, and qualifications)
Benefits: Comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off and travel opportunities
The Ceres Commitment
Ceres Environmental Services is a leader in crisis management, rapid response, and disaster recovery, committed to rebuilding stronger, safer communities. Founded in 1976, Ceres has secured more than $3.4 billion in government-funded contracts, reflecting decades of trust in bringing hope during times of need.
We specialize in emergency response, environmental services, planning, and consulting, including debris removal, blue roofs, logistics, debris management, demolition, recycling, forest management, and coastal and marine restoration. As a licensed general contractor, we offer unparalleled expertise to restore stability where it’s needed most.
Driven by Purpose, Powered by People
At Ceres, we believe you’re more than just an employee; you’re part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. Whether in management, field operations, or behind the scenes, every team member plays a vital role in restoring hope, helping communities recover and rebuild.
We value initiative, respect diversity, and give our people the freedom to lead. We offer competitive pay, travel opportunities, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork. If you show up with compassion, share the commitment, react with urgency, and deliver solutions, you’ll fit right in. We don’t just respond to challenges; we rise to them.
What We Are Looking For
We are seeking a highly experienced Heavy Equipment Mechanic (Grade 3) to perform advanced diagnostics, maintenance, and repair of heavy-duty vehicles and specialized equipment used in construction and disaster recovery operations. This role is responsible for ensuring equipment is safe, reliable, and fully operational to support critical field operations.
This position is a senior-level mechanic role within the Equipment Department and may support or guide junior mechanics as needed. The role works closely with field operations and logistics teams to maintain fleet readiness across multiple job sites.
Success in the first 12 months includes independently diagnosing complex mechanical failures, completing major repairs efficiently, minimizing equipment downtime, and contributing to overall fleet reliability and performance.
What You Will Do
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair heavy-duty vehicles, construction equipment, and specialized machinery.
- Disassemble and reassemble engines, components, and systems to perform repairs and maintenance.
- Analyze mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems to determine root cause of equipment failures.
- Perform preventative maintenance to ensure equipment reliability and operational readiness.
- Conduct test runs and inspections to verify completeness and quality of repairs.
- Read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and work orders to guide repair procedures.
- Order and requisition parts and materials required for maintenance and repairs.
- Maintain detailed service records, inspection reports, and repair documentation.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety standards at all times.
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized work areas and properly care for tools and equipment.
- Travel to job sites as needed to perform field repairs and support operations.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- 5+ years of experience repairing and maintaining heavy equipment and diesel-powered machinery.
- Proven ability to diagnose and repair complex mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
- Strong understanding of heavy-duty vehicles and construction equipment.
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in fast-paced environments.
Preferred Qualifications
- Welding and fabrication experience.
- Advanced hydraulic troubleshooting experience.
- Experience in disaster response, construction, or environmental services.
- Familiarity with computerized diagnostic tools and systems.
What to Expect
This role combines shop and field-based work in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment supporting equipment operations during disaster recovery efforts. You will work on a wide range of heavy equipment under varying conditions, often with tight timelines and high operational demands.
Frequent travel to project sites may be required depending on operational needs. Work conditions may include extended hours, weekends, and exposure to environmental factors such as weather, noise, and heavy machinery. The role requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a high commitment to safety and quality work.
You will play a critical role in keeping essential equipment operational and directly supporting community recovery efforts by minimizing downtime and ensuring fleet readiness.
Physical Requirements and Environment
Ceres provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants with sincerely held religious beliefs, as required by law.
- Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Ability to stand, bend, climb, reach, and work in confined or awkward positions for extended periods.
- Specific vision abilities to include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
- Willing to wear PPE including hard hat, protective eyewear, steel-toed boots, gloves, and other required safety gear.
- Ability to work in adverse weather and field conditions, including exposure to mechanical parts, noise, vibration, dust, and fumes.
- Ability to work on, under, and around heavy equipment and machinery.
- Commitment to following safety standards and protocols.
Why Join Ceres?
At Ceres, you won’t just have a job, you’ll have a mission. Your work will directly impact the speed and strength of community recovery after disasters.
We offer:
- A collaborative, mission-driven culture.
- Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
- The chance to make a lasting difference for communities across the U.S.
Ceres Environmental is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability status, or protected veteran status.
E-Verify: We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility.
