Shop Technician I - Spec Shop
Company : Blanchard Machinery
Location : West Columbia, SC, 29172
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 11 January 2026
Overview
The Spec Shop Technician I assumes a high level of responsibility. Successful Spec Shop Technicians are fast learners, self-motivated and independent workers who receive intensive training in troubleshooting, technical procedures, and safety.
Blanchard Machinery Company is committed to fostering a high-performance work culture with challenging work opportunities that inspire high quality results. Some of the benefits of joining our team are:
- Competitive Pay.
- Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401K, profit sharing, generous PTO and paid holidays, uniforms, and much more.
- Exposure to world-class CAT training and development.
- A friendly and supportive work environment.
- Continuous exposure to learning and new technologies.
- Opportunities for advancement.
Responsibilities
- Contributes to a positive work environment and promotes the vision, mission and values of BMC.
- Completes all job responsibilities in a safe manner, promotes and champions a safe and healthy work environment.
- The Spec Shop focuses on component rebuilds and reconditioning. Specifically within hydraulics (cylinders, valves, pumps and motors), engines and power train.
- Skill-level requirements vary from basic troubleshooting and preventive maintenance to component replacement.
- Requires basic working knowledge of equipment operation and associated operating systems.
- Requires basic understanding of electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic circuits/drawings/prints.
- Ability to use diagnostic equipment (i.e., Cat ET, CAT-SIS)
- Familiarization of electronic cables, connections and sensors.
- Maintain, diagnose and repair a variety of equipment including; diesel engines, transmissions, drive train components, winches, high pressure pumps, centrifugal pumps, air compressors, microprocessor controls, electro-mechanical equipment, hydraulic systems, pneumatic systems, gearboxes, PTO's, 12/24v electrical systems, equipment cabs and controls, chassis and suspension, A/C systems etc.
- Performs inspections required by company.
- Installs and/or replaces new or reconditioned repair parts.
- Tests equipment for proper operation.
- Ensures total customer service.
- Operates lifting devices.
- Must complete proper paperwork as assigned.
- Preparing parts requisitions, time cards, part returns, accurate and complete service reports and other necessary reports and forms.
Qualifications
- High school diploma required.
- 3+ years related heavy equipment repair and reconditioning work required.
- Shift work, weekends and/or 24 hour call may be required.
- Knowledge of troubleshooting techniques and proper repair procedures is required.
- Must be able to read and interpret electrical and hydraulic schematics, operating and maintenance service manuals.
- Organizational and time management skills required. Must have the ability to set and keep priorities and professionally handle the stress associated with dealing with a fast paced industry and deadlines.
- Organizational and time management skills required. Must have the ability to set and keep priorities and professionally handle the stress associated with dealing with a fast paced industry and deadlines.
- Must be a Team player that is enthusiastic and hard working with the ability to complete work with minimal supervision.
- High degree of interpersonal skills with excellent written and oral communication skills is required.
- Must possess the personal discipline to establish the proper image as a representative of Blanchard with the ability to meet and work with the customer in a professional manner.
- Strong problem solving skills and be detailed oriented with a high level of accuracy.
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Frequently asked questions
A Shop Technician I in West Columbia excels with troubleshooting hydraulics, diesel engines, and power trains. Proficiency in reading electrical and hydraulic schematics and using diagnostic tools like CAT ET is vital. These skills enable efficient reconditioning and maintenance of complex machinery components.
Unlike general machine shop roles, this position zeroes in on component rebuilds and reconditioning, focusing on hydraulic systems and power train elements. Daily tasks involve detailed diagnostics, preventive maintenance, and part replacement, demanding specialized knowledge in hydraulics and electronics.
Starting as a Shop Technician I offers exposure to advanced CAT training and hands-on experience with heavy machinery. Demonstrating problem-solving and technical aptitude often leads to roles with increased responsibilities, such as lead technician or specialized diagnostic positions within the company.
West Columbia’s growing industrial sector demands skilled technicians, making positions at Blanchard Machinery moderately competitive. Candidates with three or more years of heavy equipment repair experience and familiarity with CAT diagnostic tools stand out amid local applicants.
While a high school diploma is essential, certifications in hydraulics, diesel mechanics, or CAT-specific training boost employability. South Carolina employers value candidates with proven skills in electrical and hydraulic diagnostics due to the technical nature of equipment serviced locally.
Blanchard Machinery provides a competitive pay structure complemented by medical, dental, vision coverage, 401k, profit sharing, and generous PTO. The company’s commitment to world-class CAT training and a supportive environment creates growth opportunities unmatched by many local competitors.
The company prioritizes safety, quality, and teamwork, expecting technicians to contribute positively while maintaining high professional standards. This culture fosters responsibility, continuous learning, and customer service excellence, aligning with Blanchard’s vision of a high-performance work environment.
In West Columbia, a Shop Technician I typically earns between $42,000 and $52,000 annually. This range reflects the demand for heavy equipment repair skills, the specialized nature of the Spec Shop role, and local industry standards in South Carolina’s manufacturing and machinery sectors.