Mechanic I

Payless Hardware, Rockery & Nursery – San Jose, CA

Compensation: $22–$40/hour (DOE)

Schedule: Part-Time or Full-Time

About Us

Payless Hardware, Rockery & Nursery has proudly served our community since 1973. As a locally owned and operated business, we provide building materials, landscaping supplies, and nursery products to both homeowners and contractors. Our success is built on strong relationships, operational excellence, and a team that takes pride in getting the job done right.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled, hands-on Mechanic responsible for the diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of our trucks, heavy equipment, small engines, and operational machinery.

This role is purely technical and execution-focused. The Mechanic will work with the Facilities Manager and Mechanic II.

The Mechanic is responsible for keeping equipment and vehicles operational, safe, and ready for daily use — minimizing downtime and supporting day-to-day operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Fleet & Vehicle Repair

• Diagnose and repair company vehicles including: Dump trucks, flatbeds, pickups, buggies, and delivery vehicles
• Perform routine maintenance: Oil changes, brakes, tires, filters, fluid checks
• Troubleshoot diesel and gas engine issues
• Complete repairs in a timely and cost-effective manner
• Identify issues early to prevent breakdowns

Equipment & Machinery Maintenance

• Maintain and repair Forklifts, loaders, yard equipment, compressors, saws, and small engines
• Diagnose hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical issues
• Perform preventative maintenance to reduce equipment downtime
• Ensure all equipment is safe and fully operational for daily use

BIT Inspection Support

• Perform hands-on 90-day inspections as assigned
• Complete and submit DVIR-related repairs and corrections
• Assist in preparing vehicles for compliance inspections
• Maintain accurate service and repair records

Welding & Fabrication

• Perform welding and basic fabrication as needed
• Repair trailers, bins, racks, and equipment
• Modify or reinforce equipment to improve durability and function

Facilities & Yard Support (Technical Only)

• Perform general repairs as needed: Minor electrical, plumbing, and structural fixes
• Support upkeep of yard equipment and operational areas
• Assist with installation or repair of fixtures and systems

Operational Support

• Respond quickly to urgent repair needs to minimize downtime
• Communicate equipment issues clearly to Facilities Manager
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area
• Support special projects and operational needs as assigned

Qualifications

• 3–7+ years of hands-on mechanical experience (fleet, diesel, equipment, or similar)
• Strong knowledge of: Diesel and gas engines; Hydraulics and electrical systems; Small engine repair
• Welding and fabrication experience preferred
• Ability to diagnose and repair issues independently
• Strong work ethic and reliability in a fast-paced environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs regularly
• Comfortable working indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Standing, bending, kneeling, and working under vehicles/equipment
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in construction, landscaping, aggregates, or hardware industry
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus
• Master Technician or Automotive Service Excellence or related certification a plus
• Forklift certified a plus

Why Join Payless?

• Stable, long-standing local business with strong reputation
• Supportive leadership and team environment
• Competitive pay based on experience
• Employee discounts and benefits

Equal Opportunity Employer

Payless Hardware, Rockery & Nursery is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace.

Company Introduction

We are your local hardware store and we are a part of your community. Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently owned and operated by local entrepreneurs. These hard working men and women are part of the fabric of your community. They are small business owners who are local and loyal...just like it ought to be. While others have become large and impersonal, at Ace, we've remained small and very personal. That's why we say a visit to Ace, is like a visit to your neighbor.