Machine Shop Helper Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

JOB TITLE: Day Shop Helper – Full-Time

LOCATION: Memphis, TN

HOURS: 1st Shift

COMPENSATION: $18-22Hour

TRAVEL: Minimal (1-10%)

Your daily impact:

As our next Shop Helper, you'll be at the heart of our mission—keeping our street sweepers and equipment safe, reliable, and ready to serve the communities that depend on them. In this role, you’ll take ownership of inspections, diagnostics, and repairs, working hands-on with hydraulic, electrical, and air systems to ensure our fleet operates at peak performance.

The job responsibilities below outline the core duties and expectations of a position, providing clarity on how the role supports Company goals. However, not all duties can be listed, and as business needs evolve, responsibilities may shift over time to reflect new priorities, processes, or technologies:

• Safety & Inspections: Perform thorough inspections of equipment and mechanical systems, follow all safety protocols (including lockout/tagout), and monitor lubrication, fluids, and equipment condition to prevent safety risks or failures.
• Maintenance Execution: Complete assembly, repair, and preventive maintenance work with accuracy and attention to detail, following blueprints, specifications, and torque requirements to minimize downtime and ensure reliability.
• Equipment Operation & Diagnostics: Operate diagnostic tools, software, machinery, and hand tools safely and effectively to identify and repair mechanical issues on equipment such as sweepers, loaders, and backhoes.
• Equipment & Material Handling: Safely handle parts, lubricants, and fluids; apply grease and oils correctly; and dispose of used materials in accordance with environmental and safety requirements.
• Reporting & Documentation: Accurately document inspections, diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance activities, and promptly report recurring issues or safety concerns to supervisors.
• Professional Communication: Communicate maintenance needs, best practices, repair status, and scheduling updates clearly with equipment operators, supervisors, and team members.
• Compliance & Accountability: Adhere to company policies and industry regulations, completing all required service reports, safety checklists, and compliance documentation accurately and on time.
• Adaptability & Reliability: Respond effectively to unexpected equipment issues, troubleshoot and problem-solve collaboratively, and maintain regular, predictable attendance.

Minimum Job Requirements:

Minimum job qualifications define the essential skills, experience, and abilities needed to succeed in the role. They set the baseline for hiring but may evolve as the job and business requirements change:

• Education: High School or GED
• Experience: 1 year of hands-on experience in a shop environment working with hydraulic, electrical, and air pressure systems. – heavy equipment, waste, & recycling services experience preferred 
• License: Driver’s License 
• Age: Must be at least 18 years of age
• Compliance: Must maintain an acceptable driving record and successfully pass a motor vehicle record (MVR) check, background check, DOT physical, and drug screening in accordance with Company policy and applicable law.

Skills & Competencies:

Skills and competencies define the abilities and behaviors essential for success in the role. They guide performance expectations and may evolve as the role, team, or business priorities change:

• Safety & Compliance: Consistently follow safety procedures, conduct required inspections, operate equipment responsibly, and comply with all traffic, site, and regulatory requirements.
• Operational Execution & Reliability: Plan and execute work efficiently and accurately, adapt to changing conditions, and maintain regular, dependable attendance.
• Communication & Accountability: Communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors and team members, represent the Company appropriately, and promptly report equipment issues, incidents, or safety concerns.
• Mechanical & Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of machinery, hydraulic, electrical, and other mechanical systems.
• Tool Proficiency: Skilled in using hand tools, shop tools, and precision measurement tools (e.g., calipers) safely and accurately.
• Communication & Accountability: Communicate clearly and professionally with supervisors and team members, represent the Company appropriately, and promptly report equipment issues, incidents, or safety concerns.

Physical Requirements:

Physical requirements outline the essential on-the-job demands needed to perform the role safely and effectively.

• Work Environment & Exposure: Constant work outdoors with regular exposure to weather, elements, and traffic; occasional exposure to loud noise, dust/debris, and jarring conditions; limited exposure to chemicals.
• Physical Demands: Frequent sitting and walking/standing; occasional bending, twisting, squatting, kneeling, pushing/pulling; limited stair climbing and crawling; ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs at varying heights, including overhead.
• Cognitive & Sensory Requirements: Continuous reading, screen use, mental focus, and hand-eye coordination throughout the workday.
• Equipment & Tools: Operation of specialized equipment and use of hand controls, foot controls, and fine motor skills.
• Safety & Protective Gear: Required use of appropriate PPE, including high-visibility apparel, eye, ear, hand, foot, head, lung, and skin protection.

Safety is #1:

Our safety culture is more than a policy—it’s a mindset. We have a full-time safety team, rigorous training programs, and detailed operating procedures to protect our people and the communities we serve. You’ll be supported from Day One with the tools and knowledge to work confidently and safely.

Benefits & Wellness at SCA:

We believe great people deserve great perks. When you join SCA, you’re not just keeping the streets clean—you’re paving the way to a better future (with some solid benefits under the hood).

Here’s what we’ve got in our hopper:

• 401(k) with Match: Plan for the long haul—retirement is another kind of clean sweep.
• Weekly Pay: Consistent weekly pay you can count on, plus on-demand pay so you can access earned wages when you need them.
• Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance: Take care of what matters most with benefits designed to support you and your family’s wellbeing and future.
• Short- & Long-Term Disability: If life throws a pothole your way, we help you keep rolling.
• Indemnity Insurance: Extra protection for life’s unexpected detours.
• Paid Time Off & Holidays: Even the best machines need downtime.
• Training Programs: Shift into high gear with learning and career advancement opportunities.
• Team Focus: We show up for our customers and each other, every day.
• A Culture that Cares: People are the heart of everything we do, fostering a culture of respect, safety, and growth
• Rooted in Respect: A company with a name people know & trust - built on relationships, community pride and a people focused approach to leadership.

Ready to sweep your career to the next level? Apply today and join the SCA team! 

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