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Entry-Level Diesel Technician

I-STATE TRUCK CENTERS, Inver Grove Heights, MN, United States


Job Title:

Entry-Level Diesel Mechanic

Location:

Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota

Company:

I-State Truck Center

Pay Range:

$20.00-24.00/Hour

I-State Truck Center is a leading provider of heavy-duty truck sales, parts, and service in the Midwest, specializing in Freightliner, Western Star, and Detroit Diesel products. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, we serve commercial fleets, owner-operators, and businesses across Minnesota and beyond. Our Inver Grove Heights location offers a dynamic environment for skilled tradespeople to grow their careers.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in diesel engine repair, diagnostics, and maintenance, with a focus on delivering high-quality service to ensure customer satisfaction. This role offers highly competitive wages and opportunities for career growth in a fast-paced work environment.

Job Summary
We are seeking a motivated

Entry-Level Diesel Mechanic

to join our Inver Grove Heights service team. This role is ideal for a recent graduate from a diesel technology program or someone with 1–2 years of hands‑on experience in diesel repair. You’ll work alongside seasoned technicians performing preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on Class 6–8 trucks and trailers. If you’re eager to apply your foundational skills while continuing to learn advanced techniques, this is an excellent opportunity to build a long‑term career in heavy‑duty diesel service.

Key Responsibilities

Perform routine inspections, oil changes, and preventive maintenance on diesel engines, transmissions, brakes, and electrical systems.

Assist senior technicians with diagnostics using tools such as OBD scanners, multimeters, and air gauges.

Disassemble, repair, and reassemble components including fuel systems, aftertreatment systems, and suspension components under supervision.

Accurately document all work performed using digital service management software.

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in compliance with company policies and OSHA standards.

Coordinate with the parts department to identify needed components.

Participate in on‑the‑job training and manufacturer certification programs.

Qualifications
Education

High school diploma or equivalent required

Technical diploma or certification in automotive, diesel mechanics, or heavy‑duty truck repair preferred

Experience

1–2 years of experience working on light‑duty automotive or heavy‑duty diesel trucks (Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Volvo, Mack, etc.)

Skills

Basic understanding of diesel engine systems, air brakes, and hydraulics

Familiarity with OEM diagnostic platforms (Cummins Insite, Detroit Diesel DiagnosticLink, etc.)

Ability to read service manuals, wiring diagrams, and schematics

Strong attention to detail, problem‑solving skills, and safety‑first mindset

Dependable attendance and team‑oriented attitude

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift 50–75 lbs

Ability to work in confined spaces and varying shop conditions

Preferred Skills

Experience with Freightliner and Detroit Diesel platforms

Exposure to diagnostic software such as DiagnosticLink or Jaltest

Basic welding or fabrication experience a plus

Employee Benefits

Competitive wages – be paid your worth

Uniforms provided and cleaned

Tool program available

Tuition assistance for ongoing education and career growth

Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting the first of the month following hire

PTO accrual starting day one

6 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays

401(k) with company match

Company-paid short‑term and long‑term disability

Company-paid life insurance

Healthiest You virtual healthcare

PPE reimbursement (safety glasses and safety boots)

Pet insurance

Employee discounts on products and services

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – free 24/7 access

Paid health and wellness screening

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties and may be modified at any time.

Interstate Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

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