
Lead Mechanic
Job Description
About Us:
Ranked as one of the Best Employers in Nebraska, we are committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success and satisfaction. We invest in our staff by offering fantastic benefits like vacation, sick, and holiday pay, a variety of insurance options, retirement plans, and numerous others. By joining our team, you will be given opportunities to grow as an individual and contribute to the significant impact that we make within the University of Nebraska community and Nebraska's economy each year.
Job Summary:
As the Lead Mechanic, you will:
- Maintain the reliability and functionality of various departmental equipment, including landscape, construction, refuse, irrigation, and snow removal machinery, through preventative maintenance and timely repairs.
- Execute both minor and major repairs on a variety of machinery components, including engines, transmissions, hydraulics, electrical systems, suspension, drive trains, and bodywork.
- Oversee the operations of the machine shop, ensuring all activities are carried out efficiently and safely.
- Manage and maintain a preventive maintenance schedule for all department equipment.
- Manage and maintain an inventory schedule for parts, chemicals, metals, and other maintenance-related items.
- Supervise student workers and regular employees engaged in equipment maintenance and repair.
- Maintain detailed records of repairs, including the time tracking and associated costs.
- Oversee and ensure departmental fuel storage supplies and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
- Coordinate the proper use and disposal of hazardous materials such as paint, solvents, used oils, and anti-freeze.
- Modify and fabricate new and existing department equipment to meet departmental needs.
- Oversee, train, mentor, and verify work of other staff, students, and temp/on-call personnel.
Required Qualifications:
- Completion of a vocational or technical training program in small engine repair or equivalent education/experience.
- 5+ years of experience performing preventive maintenance and repair of equipment.
- 5+ years of experience performing major overhauls of machinery components such as engines, transmissions, hydraulics, electrical, suspension, drive trains, and bodywork.
- 2+ years experience mentoring others in the safe and proper usage of tools and equipment.
- Valid driver's license and meet University driver eligibility requirements.
- Understanding of safety procedures and protocols to prevent accidents and injuries while working.
- Strong problem-solving skills to diagnose and fix machinery issues.
- Skilled in inventory management.
- Proficient in recordkeeping and documentation.
- Leadership skills.
- Proficient with the tools and equipment used in machinery and equipment repair and maintenance.
- Ability to read, understand, and execute tasks defined in service manuals.
- Knowledgeable in hazardous materials handling and compliance with safety regulations related to the work performed.
- Able to inspect and repair various machinery and equipment.
- Willing to work in challenging weather conditions and adapt to varying schedules.
- Able to work at both City and East campus.
Preferred Qualifications:
The following qualifications are preferred but not required:
- Associate's degree in Automotive Technology, Small Engine Technology, other related field of study, or equivalent experience.
- Certification from recognized organizations such as the Equipment & Engine Training Council (EETC).
Compliance Requirements:
If selected for this position and a verbal offer is accepted, the final written offer will be contingent upon the successful completion of the following required pre-employment check(s):
- Criminal history background check
- Pre-placement physical
- Driving record review
Information at a Glance
Req Id:
1134
Campus Label:
University of Nebraska Lincoln (UNL)
Org Unit:
UO Landscape Services UNL
Job Location:
Lincoln, NE 68588
Application Review Date:
10/13/25
Open Until Filled:
Yes
Advertised Salary:
Salary commensurate with experience and/or education.
Job Type:
Full-Time
Worksite Eligibility:
On-site
Benefits Eligible:
Yes
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact:
Shea Kinnison: skinnison2@nebraska.edu
Special Instructions to Applicant:
Click on "Apply Now". Create or login to account. If current employee, click on Employee login.
Posting Start Date:
10/3/25