Working Shop Foreman

Job DetailsJob Location: Farmingdale - Farmingdale, NJ 07727Salary Range: $44.00 - $50.00 HourlyQualificationsThe Working Shop Foreman assists in coordinating and directing the daily workload of the Service Department at their assigned branch location, with a primary focus on maximizing shop efficiency, technician productivity, and repair quality. This is a hands-on, working role that combines direct technical participation in equipment diagnosis and repair with frontline supervisory responsibilities over shop service technicians. The Working Shop Foreman serves as the senior technical resource in the shop, provides guidance and mentorship to technicians and apprentices, and supports the Branch Service Manager in maintaining a safe, organized, and high-performing service operation.

Essential Duties

Shop Supervision & Workflow Coordination

Assists the Branch Service Manager in assigning jobs and work areas to service technicians and apprentices according to their skill level, experience, and current workload to maximize shop productivity and efficiency.
Monitors the progress of open repair orders throughout the day; checks in with technicians to identify delays, technical obstacles, or parts issues and takes corrective action to keep work on schedule.
Reviews repair orders for accuracy, completeness, and proper documentation of complaint, cause, and correction prior to customer billing, in coordination with the Service Administrator.
Approves the release of repaired and reconditioned equipment for delivery to customers after verifying that all work has been completed to quality standards.
May fill the Branch Service Manager role in their absence, assuming responsibility for shop operations, customer communications, and technician supervision.
Strives for continuous improvement in shop operations, turnaround times, and work quality; identifies opportunities to streamline processes and communicates recommendations to the Branch Service Manager.

Technical Work & Diagnostics

Actively participates in equipment diagnosis, repair, and maintenance as a working technician, performing hands-on service work across mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems on heavy and compact construction equipment.
Directs and assists technicians and apprentices in diagnosing complex machine problems, interpreting technical service manuals, and selecting the correct repair procedures for their assigned specialty.
Applies diagnostic tools, software, and specialized equipment to identify root causes of machine failures and validates repair completeness before units are returned to service.
Participates in the reconditioning of used equipment and the setup and pre-delivery inspection of new equipment as needed.
Maintains current knowledge of construction equipment systems, competitive products, and emerging repair technologies to serve as the shop’s technical authority.

Tools, Equipment & Shop Organization

Inspects, maintains, and repairs all special tools and equipment in the tool room; ensures all tools are in safe working condition and properly accounted for.
Identifies and recommends new tooling and diagnostic equipment required to support the shop’s growing capabilities and maintain technical certification standards.
Monitors the stocking and usage of shop supplies; communicates replenishment needs to the Branch Service Manager to prevent work stoppages.
Maintains overall shop and lot organization and cleanliness in accordance with company standards; ensures all employees work in a neat, orderly fashion and that the facility is safe and presentable at all times.

Safety & Training

Assists the Branch Service Manager in coordinating and conducting safety meetings for the service department; ensures all team members are aware of and compliant with applicable safety rules, regulations, and company policies.
Coordinates and schedules in-house technician training programs in partnership with the Branch Service Manager to support the skill development and technical certification of service staff.
Enforces all safety rules and regulations in the performance of all work assignments; models a safety-first culture on the shop floor at all times.
Participates in training programs required for the development of personal skills and knowledge, including technical certification programs relevant to the equipment lines serviced by Core Equipment Group.

Customer & Service Manager Support

Advises the Branch Service Manager of all customer complaints and service concerns in a timely manner; assists in identifying solutions and communicating resolution status to customers as needed.
Assists in appraising incoming repair orders and communicating estimated repair scope, timelines, and cost expectations to the Service Administrator and Branch Service Manager.
May assist the Branch Service Manager in providing performance feedback for service technicians and shop staff.
Assists in tracking and scheduling Product Improvement Programs (PIPs) and campaigns for equipment on the branch lot, ensuring all required work is completed and submitted within required timeframes.
Operates and maintains all vehicles, tools, and equipment required to perform job responsibilities in a safe and proper manner.
Follows all safety rules and regulations in performing work assignments.
Performs all other duties as assigned by the Branch Service Manager.

General Requirements

Demonstrates a strong commitment to repair quality, customer satisfaction, and service excellence in all work performed.
Communicates professionally and effectively with technicians, service administration, management, and customers.
Exhibits strong leadership and the ability to direct, motivate, and develop a team of shop technicians in a fast-paced dealership service environment.
Maintains an organized, detail-oriented approach to repair order management, shop workflow, and tool accountability.
Adheres to all company policies, procedures, and safety standards at all times.
Models professionalism, integrity, and a collaborative team-first attitude in all interactions within the service department and across the organization.

Specific Requirements

In-depth working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems used in heavy and compact construction equipment, with the ability to independently diagnose and repair complex machine failures.
Experience using special service tools and following technical service manual procedures for the equipment lines serviced at the assigned location.
Proficiency with computer-based diagnostic tools and dealership management or service management software; experience with field and shop diagnostic platforms preferred.
Demonstrated ability to lead a team and work cooperatively in a team environment, including directing the work of technicians and apprentices.
Experience operating vehicles, equipment, and tools for diagnostic and delivery purposes.
Adequate personal toolset to independently perform all assigned repair and diagnostic responsibilities.
Ability to read, interpret, and apply technical service manuals, wiring diagrams, and hydraulic schematics.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to document repair findings accurately on work orders.
Valid driver’s license required.

Qualifications

7+ years of experience performing service repairs on construction, off-road, or heavy equipment; demonstrated experience consistently meeting performance and productivity metrics preferred.
Prior experience leading or mentoring technicians in a dealership or equipment service environment preferred.
High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent experience required; Associate’s Degree in Diesel Technology, Heavy Equipment Technology, or a related field preferred.

Physical Requirements

Ability to perform physical labor throughout the full workday, including standing, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and working in confined spaces typical of equipment repair and maintenance.
Regular lifting, carrying, and moving of items up to 75 pounds; team lifts required for heavier components.
Ability to climb on, around, and beneath heavy and compact construction equipment of varying sizes during inspection, diagnosis, and repair.
Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination sufficient to operate precision hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.
Adequate vision and hearing to detect equipment malfunctions, read gauges and technical documentation, and communicate effectively in a shop environment.
Ability to operate construction equipment and company vehicles as required for diagnostic, delivery, and yard duties.

Work Environment

This position is performed primarily in a service shop environment with regular exposure to noise, dust, grease, diesel fumes, machinery, and varying temperatures typical of an active heavy equipment service facility. The Working Shop Foreman may also work in outdoor yard environments and occasionally in the field. Appropriate personal protective equipment is required for portions of this role. Standard business hours apply; occasional overtime or weekend hours may be required based on shop workload and customer needs.