Trailer Mechanic
Company : Dayton Freight
Location : Rockford, IL, 61109
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 29 December 2025
Overview
Salary: $30.25 - $34.25/hour
Shifts Available:
SECOND: 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM | Monday - Friday | $1 Shift Differential Possible, $0.75 With Active CDL
- Stable and growing organization
- Competitive weekly pay
- Overtime after 40 hours
- Quick advancement
- Quality Hours
- Comprehensive benefits package: Health, Dental, Vision, AD&D, 401(k), etc.
- Paid holidays (8); paid vacation and personal days
Responsibilities
Trailer Mechanics are to perform maintenance service in which the volume and quality of work is within the acceptably measured standards for Dayton Freight Lines.
- Has a fundamental understanding of repairing and rebuilding components on 48ft. and 53ft. dry van trailers and can effectively repairs the following components:
- Suspension and running gear components
- Landing gear assembly and components
- Wheel components and tires
- Brake and air components
- Electrical, lighting and wiring components
- Rear frame and door components
- Side, nose and roof components
- Interior and floor components
- Able to thoroughly perform Preventative Maintenance inspections and repairs
- Maintains a high level of welding and metal fabrication skills
- Performs service calls
- Washes and fuels equipment when necessary
- Road tests vehicles to ensure quality repair services were performed.*Dependent upon having a CDL
- Consistently positive attitude, interacting courteously and professionally with fellow employees
- Pro-actively assists, guides and directs junior technicians
- Be a leading participant in the care and upkeep of the shop, the grounds and all equipment and tools
- Maintains a clean, safe environment that complies to OSHA and company standards
- Proficient in recording all work and labor on a computer in the EMS system
- Works with the Parts Department to assure that all necessary materials, parts, service and shop supplies are maintained at proper quantity levels
- Works in compliance to EPA regulations as well as DOT and company safety requirements
- Performs other maintenance duties or assignments when necessary
Qualifications
- Possess a valid Driver's License
- Basic math skills
- Fluent in English
- Legally eligible to work in the United States
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Able to pass a drug screen
Benefits
- Stable and growing organization
- Competitive weekly pay
- Overtime after 40 hours
- Quick advancement
- Quality Hours
- Professional, positive and people-centered work environment
- Modern facilities
- Clean, late model equipment
- Comprehensive benefits package: Health, Dental, Vision, AD&D, etc.
- Paid holidays (8); paid vacation and personal days
- 401(k) plan, Company Match
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Frequently asked questions
In Rockford, possessing a valid driver's license is essential for trailer mechanics, especially if CDL is required for certain shifts. While specific certifications like ASE may boost your profile, local employers prioritize hands-on experience with suspension, brake systems, and electrical components on dry van trailers.
Rockford’s industrial base creates steady opportunities for trailer mechanics, with a moderate hiring pace compared to Chicago. The presence of logistics companies like Dayton Freight ensures consistent openings, although the competition is less intense than in larger metro areas, making it a promising location for trailer repair specialists.
Expect to troubleshoot complex suspension and air brake systems regularly, perform precise welding tasks, and manage preventive maintenance inspections. Road testing repaired trailers for safety compliance is vital, requiring a keen eye for detail and adaptability to varied repair scenarios frequently encountered in trailer service.
Yes, many trailer mechanics transition into lead technician or supervisory roles by developing expertise in diagnostics and mentoring junior staff. Companies like Dayton Freight emphasize quick advancement, rewarding those who maintain high workmanship standards and demonstrate proficiency in metal fabrication and electrical troubleshooting.
Dayton Freight combines competitive pay with a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with company match. Paid holidays and personal days, along with a positive work culture and modern equipment, distinguish their offer for trailer repair professionals seeking stability and growth.
Dayton Freight provides structured shifts with shift differentials and potential bonuses for CDL holders, emphasizing a clean, OSHA-compliant environment. Their focus on quality hours and technician mentorship fosters a collaborative culture, making it more than just a repair job but a career with community and advancement.
Pay ranges between $30.25 and $34.25 per hour, with overtime kicking in after 40 hours weekly. Shift differentials add earning potential, especially for second shift mechanics. This competitive compensation approach reflects the skill level required for trailer repairs in the Rockford freight sector.
Rockford’s traffic conditions are generally manageable, making commutes reasonable for local mechanics. However, considering shift hours from 2:00 pm - 10:30 pm, flexibility with travel times can alleviate peak hour congestion. Proximity to main highways enhances accessibility to Dayton Freight’s facilities.
Dayton Freight values mechanics skilled in suspension systems, air brakes, and electrical wiring, including lighting components. Welding and metal fabrication expertise are also crucial, reflecting the company’s emphasis on comprehensive trailer maintenance and ensuring safe, roadworthy equipment.