Assistant Mechanic - Vintage (Athol)

The Vintage Mechanic Assistant supports the Heritage Shop operations by assisting skilled tradespeople in the fabrication and painting of metal components, often on vintage or antique equipment. This position includes general labor duties such as preparing materials, operating basic tools, cleaning workspaces, moving components, and learning on-the-job trade skills under supervision. Ideal for driven individuals seeking entry-level experience in a metalworking environment, with the potential for personal growth.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Follow safety protocols and wear appropriate PPE at all times.


• Assist fabricators and painters with setup, prep work, and cleanup.


• Operate basic tools and equipment (e.g., grinders, drills, sanders) under supervision.


• Load/unload materials, move components within the shop using carts or forklifts.


• Perform shop maintenance including sweeping, organizing tools, and cleaning.


• Prepare metal surfaces (e.g., sanding, degreasing, masking) for painting or welding.


• Learn trade skills and standard practices through hands-on work and instruction.


• Support inventory and material handling as directed.


• Help with packaging, labeling, and staging finished vintage equipment for delivery or storage.


• Promote the Company’s Mission and Values, including an accountable, innovative, and results-oriented culture that promotes customer service, openness, teamwork, mutual trust, and respect.


• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent.


• Comfortable using hand tools and small power tools.


• Ability to follow verbal instructions and work with minimal supervision.


• Willingness to learn and take direction from skilled tradespeople.


• Excellent problem-solving skills 


• Ability to pass a hair follicle drug test, post-offer pre-employment physical, and background check.


• Valid Driver’s License with acceptable motor vehicle history for business travel in company vehicles.


• Willingness to travel.


• Willing to be fit tested for a respirator (To be used while performing certain task such as painting)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Maintenance Management System knowledge (Dynastar) preferred


• Prior experience in a shop, construction, or manufacturing environment a plus.


• Forklift or skid-steer experience beneficial but not required.

STARTING WAGE: $21.75 per hour 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Use of a respirator may be required while performing certain tasks (such as painting).

Ability to lift 50+ lbs., standing for long periods, and working in varying shop conditions (heat, noise, dust).

Ability to sit and/or stand for shift, reach with hands and arms, stoop, squat, bend at the waist, kneel, walk varying distance, and climb stairs.

• Bend at waist – occasional


• Twist upper body – occasional


• Stoop - occasional


• Repetitive use of hands – occasional


• Stand/walk – frequent


• Climb stairs - occasional


• Sit – occasional


• Vision – near and far correctable; depth perception


• Hearing – preferred for awareness of surrounding machinery, mobile equipment, emergencies

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Must be able to tolerate all weather elements, loud conditions, airborne particles (sawdust).

Idaho Forest Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, family medical history, or any other status protected by law.