Job Title: Lead Service Technician (Journeyman – Compact & Heavy Equipment)
Location: Stockton, CA
Job Type: Full-time, Hourly (non-exempt)
Pay Range: $38.00 - $48.00 pe hour (DOE) + Overtime Eligibility
Reports To: Service Manager and/or Branch Manager
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Service Technician (Journeyman Level) to support service operations across Northern and Central California. This role combines advanced diagnostic and repair expertise with shop leadership responsibilities, serving as the senior technical resource for the service team.
The Lead Technician is responsible for performing complex repairs, mentoring technicians, and supporting shop workflow, quality control, and efficiency. This position plays a critical role in ensuring consistent, high-quality service delivery and maintaining a productive, safe, and customer-focused environment.
What We Offer
· Competitive hourly pay with overtime eligibility
· Manufacturer training (e.g., Bobcat University or equivalent OEM programs)
· Company-provided laptop and diagnostic tools (where applicable)
· Medical, dental, and vision insurance
· Optional supplemental benefit plans
· 401(k) with company match
· Paid vacation, sick leave (CA-compliant), and holidays
· Career advancement opportunities into supervisory roles
Key Responsibilities
Technical & Diagnostic Leadership
· Perform advanced diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repair on compact construction, agricultural, and diesel-powered equipment
· Lead complex mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical system repairs
· Serve as the primary escalation point for difficult technical issues
· Ensure all repairs meet manufacturer and company quality standards
Shop Operations & Workflow
· Support daily shop operations, focusing on efficiency, WIP (Work in Progress), and turnaround times
· Review and manage work orders to ensure accurate documentation, labor tracking, and parts usage
· Assist in initial equipment inspections and estimate development (target: 24-hour quote turnaround)
· Coordinate with Service Advisors/Writers to ensure clear communication and customer updates
Team Leadership & Development
· Mentor, train, and coach technicians to improve diagnostic capability and productivity
· Provide real-time technical support to team members
· Promote accountability for quality of workmanship and safety compliance
· Assist management with performance feedback and skill development planning
Customer & Quality Focus
· Support customer communication regarding repair status, additional work, and timelines
· Ensure proper documentation to support billing transparency and customer trust
· Promote a culture of high-quality service and customer satisfaction
Safety & Compliance
· Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment
· Conduct and support shop safety inspections and OSHA compliance
· Ensure adherence to all company policies and California labor regulations
Qualifications
· High school diploma or equivalent required
· 5+ years of experience in compact construction, heavy equipment, diesel, or agricultural equipment repair
· Journeyman-level diagnostic and repair proficiency required
· Previous lead or senior technician experience strongly preferred
· Valid driver’s license (clean driving record preferred)
Preferred Skills
· Experience with dealer management systems (e.g., CDK, IntelliDealer)
· Strong knowledge of diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, and HVAC
· OEM certifications or manufacturer training (e.g., Bobcat, CAT, John Deere, etc.)
· Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus
Core Competencies
· Advanced diagnostic and troubleshooting expertise
· Leadership and mentoring capability
· Strong organizational and workflow management skills
· Excellent written and verbal communication
· High attention to detail and commitment to quality
· Ability to balance hands-on work with leadership responsibilities
Physical Requirements
· Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and maintain balance for extended periods
· Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
· Ability to work in both shop and outdoor environments under varying conditions
Compensation & Benefits
· Hourly Pay Range: $38.00 – $48.00 per hour (DOE)
· Overtime: Paid in accordance with California law (non-exempt position)
· Medical, dental, and vision insurance
· 401(k) with company match
· Paid time off, California-compliant sick leave, and holidays
· Supplemental benefits available
California Pay Transparency & Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
In accordance with California law, the pay range for this position is listed above. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, qualifications, certifications, and internal equity.
About Bobcat Central, Inc.
Bobcat Central, Inc. has been family owned and operated since 1976, serving as a trusted compact equipment dealer across California’s agricultural center and the Sierras. With locations in Stockton, Fresno, Merced, Sacramento, and Reno, we offer parts, service, rental, and sales of Bobcat® equipment, attachments, and Towmaster® trailers. Our commitment to quality, quick response, and competitive pricing has made us a leader in supporting industries such as construction, agriculture, landscaping, home services, and ground maintenance.
Founded by the Franzia family, our legacy is built on innovation, customer satisfaction, and community involvement. We pride ourselves on delivering the best loaders, excavators, compact tractors, utility vehicles, telehandlers, and attachments on the market, backed by a team that values integrity and excellence.
The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind based on any characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. law.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $38.00 - $48.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Heavy equipment operation: 4 years (Required)
- Farm machinery: 2 years (Required)
- Service technician: 3 years (Preferred)
- Equipment repair: 2 years (Required)
Work Location: In person