The Ziegler Apprenticeship Program offers on-the-job training with no prior experience or education required. As a Technician Apprentice, you will build your skillset through hands-on and classroom training over the course of the 12-month program. The goal at the completion of the training period is for all apprentices to earn a career as a diesel repair technician at the Ziegler branch near you. This may be a great opportunity for you if you are interested in being a diesel mechanic and have graduated high school, are exiting the military, or looking for a career change.

Ziegler will provide you with tools/toolbox, hands on and classroom training led by mechanically skilled and trained instructors, and a full time position with pay, benefits, and PTO. Starting out as a Technician Apprentice, you will spend 50% of your time at the branch near you and 50% of your time at a Ziegler training facility, likely in Des Moines. During your training time, the cost of hotel will be covered, along with a stipend to help cover other expenses. As you progress throughout the program, the amount of classroom training will likely decrease.

Next Apprentice Technician program starting June 2026.

Course work includes:
• General shop skills
• Hydraulic and hydrostatic systems
• Diesel engine overhaul and fuel systems
• Powertrain systems and undercarriage
• Electrical and machine electronic systems
• Electronic engines and tier 4 emissions
• Welding and flame cutting
• Machine brake systems
• Applied failure analysis
• HVAC
• Report writing

Responsibilities:

Attend and actively participate in all classroom and in person trainings
Perform all assigned work, including minor repairs and preventative maintenance services
Partner with assigned mentor and senior technicians in completing large and complex repairs
Maintain a clean and safe work area, adhere to all safety procedures
Follow standard operating procedures
Clean and organize equipment in accordance with Ziegler appearance standards
Assist to prepare new equipment for rent or sale
Perform other duties as assigned/required
Maintain paperwork documentation of work performed (work orders) in a complete and timely manner on a daily/job basis
Document labor, addition of segments, assuring that work order can be closed and billed as communicated with the customer
Positively interact with manager and team members to satisfy customer needs

Qualifications:

Desire for a career as a diesel mechanic
High school degree/GED required with minimum GPA of 2.5
High school transcript required
Commitment to the 12-month program
Ability to travel. Training courses are held at various Ziegler locations (housing provided) and your local branch
You must be at least 18 years old when the program begins
Strong work ethic, ability to work well as part of a team, and mechanical aptitude required
Ability to work cleanly and safely
This role is deemed safety-sensitive and will be subject to a drug test as a pre-employment requirement

Minimum Physical Requirements:

Push/pull up to 50 lbs
Lift/carry up to 60 lbs
Lift bulky objects
Standing, walking, using hands, talking, hearing, neck rotation, trunk rotation, stair climbing, ladder climbing, repetitive bending, kneeling, sustained squat, forward reaching, overhead reaching, supine overhead reaching, crawling, bin lift, high steps, fingering/grasping – able to use bolt box.
Working Conditions may be indoor and/or outdoor. Noise level may be loud at times.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. Ziegler Inc. will reasonably accommodate the known disabilities of qualified disabled individuals.

SEE YOURSELF AT ZIEGLER

Founded in 1914, Ziegler is a third-generation, family-owned CAT dealer with over 2400 employees across 30+ locations in Minnesota, Iowa and northern Missouri. Since day one Ziegler has had the same philosophy- if the customer is successful- then Ziegler will be successful. That is why Ziegler is committed to providing employees with the best possible work environment and the right tools for career development. This means great benefits, work/life balance, and ongoing professional development and training. Fulfill your calling by starting a career with Ziegler today!

The pay range for this position is $17.00 to $20.00

Starting wage is dependent on skills, experience, education and location. Pay range may vary by 10% depending upon the applicant’s location. Along with competitive pay, full time positions are benefits eligible which includes:

Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
15 days of PTO your first year, accrual starts day 1
9 paid holidays
401(k) plan with company contribution and match
HSA (Health Savings Account), Ziegler contributes up to $1000 tax-free each year
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance, FSA & EAP
Paid Parental Leave & Funeral Leave
Fitness membership discount
Education Assistance
Safety Boot Reimbursement, PPE & Uniforms provided
Tool Insurance
Safe, clean and friendly work environment

At Ziegler Inc. we’re committed to equal opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site

Technician Apprentice - Sheldon, IA