Entry Level Automotive Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Stotz Equipment is a full-service John Deere dealership with 25 locations across 8 western states, serving the agriculture, construction, and turf industries.

Family-owned since 1947, we're built on the values of Quality, Integrity, Loyalty, Caring, and Community. Our people-first culture empowers teams to grow, collaborate, and make a real impact for our customers and each other.

Come help us fulfill our purpose: to create a better life for our families, communities, and those connected to the land.

A Shop Tech I / Apprentice is responsible for assisting in the diagnosis and repair of engine components, including small engines and some agricultural equipment, completing work safely, professionally, and efficiently. In this role, you'll work side by side with experienced technicians, gaining hands-on training while contributing to real repair work. This position is ideal for individuals eager to grow their skills, take on new challenges, and build a long-term career in equipment repair.

• Learn, practice, and assist with diagnostics, service repairs, and maintenance on customer and dealer-owned equipment.

• Follow direction and training from senior technicians, the Shop Foreman, or Service Manager while building your skills.

• Perform basic repairs and preventative maintenance under supervision, with growing independence as your experience develops.

• Use diagnostic tools to troubleshoot equipment issues, including small engines and agricultural machinery.

• Document work performed accurately and on time.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Provide professional customer service when interacting with clients, ensuring their needs are met and questions are answered.

• Follow all safety procedures and company policies to complete work at the highest level of quality and safety.

What's Required

Skills/Experience

To succeed in this role, you should bring a strong mechanical aptitude, professionalism, and a willingness to learn. Specifically, you will need:

• Ownership and upkeep of personal tools required for the job.

• Professional behavior, strong work ethic, and commitment to safety.

• Basic computer skills for diagnostics, work orders, and documentation.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with strong attention to detail and organizational abilities.

• Ability to operate vehicles, tools, and equipment used for diagnostics and repairs.

• Capability to assemble equipment, perform basic maintenance, and carry out diagnostic procedures with growing proficiency.

• Demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a team environment and learn from experienced technicians.

Preferred

• Minimum of 1 year of experience as a student or entry-level mechanic working on small engines, diesel, gas engines, and small hand-held components.
• Exposure to agricultural, turf, or construction equipment repair, preferably John Deere equipment
• Mechanical trade school coursework or other hands-on technical training.

Compensation is competitive and based on skill level, proven experience, and knowledge.

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

• Accepted, enrolled in a diesel mechanic school, or completed a certification from a diesel mechanic trade program.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and work in confined spaces while performing repairs, maintenance, and equipment handling.
• Requires use of hands and fingers to handle tools, operate machinery, perform detailed mechanical work, and exercise manual dexterity.
• Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver equipment and parts up to 50-75 lbs., and occasionally heavier with assistance.
• Requires close vision, depth perception, and the ability to read schematics, manuals, and computer screens; hearing ability sufficient to communicate with coworkers and customers in person and over the phone.
• Must be able to work in various environments, including shop, outdoor conditions, confined spaces, and elevated areas.
• Must be able to safely operate company vehicles, forklifts, and other equipment.
• Ability to travel to company locations, customer sites, or job sites as required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

At Stotz Equipment, we invest in our people and reward their contributions with a competitive and supportive compensation package, including:

• Profit Sharing Bonus Program
• 401(K) with 4% Company Match
• Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off, Sick Time & Company Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement & Apprenticeship Sponsorship
• Technician Incentive Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Boot Voucher & Technician Tool Account
• Company Vehicle (for qualifying roles)
• Training through John Deere University
• Eligible to join the John Deere Credit Union
• Advancement Opportunities

Successful applicants will be required to complete a background check, including criminal history and a drug screening, prior to the start of employment. For certain positions, a valid driver's license and a clean driving record are also required.