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GSE Supervisor- Forklift Mechanic

Alliance Ground International · Chicago, IL · Full time

Posted Sep 15, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a team of mechanics you've led. How did you set goals and know whether they were being met?

What they are checking: Whether they have actually managed mechanics with clear expectations, not just been the most senior tech.

Describe a time you had to coach an underperforming mechanic. What changed?

What they are checking: Whether they can develop people through clear feedback rather than just covering for them.

How do you mentor a newer mechanic who has auto experience but has never worked on airport equipment?

What they are checking: Whether they can grow junior mechanics into skilled techs instead of keeping knowledge to themselves.

How do you build a team culture where mechanics report their own mistakes instead of hiding them?

What they are checking: Whether they understand that a safe shop depends on people feeling able to speak up.

What would you do

You notice one of your mechanics skipping lockout/tagout steps to save time. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they enforce safety consistently, even with experienced people who know better.

Operations wants a forklift back on the floor, but your mechanic says it isn't safe yet. How do you handle that conversation?

What they are checking: Whether they can stand up to operational pressure while keeping a working relationship with the ramp.

A major part is back-ordered and the forklift it fits is one of your most used units. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they can find workarounds, reshuffle equipment and communicate the impact early.

About the work

How do you build a preventive maintenance schedule for a fleet of forklifts and pallet jacks at a busy cargo station like ORD?

What they are checking: Whether they can plan maintenance around operations so downtime is predictable instead of a surprise.

What do you look for during a regular inspection that tells you a forklift is heading toward a breakdown?

What they are checking: Whether they can spot early warning signs and act before equipment fails in service.

How do you make sure repairs follow manufacturer guidelines and regulatory requirements across every shift, not just yours?

What they are checking: Whether they build systems and checks that hold up when they aren't personally watching.

What metrics would you track to show leadership how the GSE shop is performing?

What they are checking: Whether they think in downtime, repair turnaround and cost, which is how a shop is judged.

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The full job description

As published by Alliance Ground International.

Job Description: Job Title: Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Supervisor – Forklift Mechanics Company: Alliance Ground International (AGI) Location: ORD Job Overview: Alliance Ground International (AGI) is looking for an experienced and skilled GSE Supervisor to oversee a team of forklift mechanics. The GSE Supervisor will be responsible for managing maintenance and repair activities to ensure all forklifts and related equipment are in top operational condition. This role requires strong technical knowledge of forklift maintenance, excellent leadership skills, and a commitment to upholding safety standards. Responsibilities: Supervision and Leadership: • Lead, supervise, and mentor a team of forklift mechanics to maintain optimal team performance. • Set clear performance goals and provide guidance to ensure high-quality and timely maintenance of all forklifts and material handling equipment. • Foster a team environment centered around safety, reliability, and efficiency. Maintenance and Repair Oversight: • Manage and oversee all maintenance, repairs, and servicing of forklifts, pallet jacks, and related equipment. • Conduct regular inspections to identify and address potential mechanical issues, minimizing equipment downtime. • Ensure that all repair and maintenance activities comply with safety standards, regulatory requirements, and manufacturer guidelines. Coordination and Scheduling: • Coordinate the daily assignments and task prioritization for forklift mechanics, aligning with operational demands. • Work closely with operations teams to ensure timely availability and functionality of forklifts to support warehouse and logistics needs. • Adjust team schedules and resources as needed to support varying workload demands. Training and Development: • Develop and implement training programs to improve technical skills and knowledge among forklift mechanics. • Ensure that all team members stay current with industry best practices and updates in forklift maintenance technology. Inventory and Resource Management: • Oversee the inventory of spare parts, tools, and supplies required for forklift maintenance. • Collaborate with the procurement team to maintain adequate parts and equipment stock, minimizing downtime. • Track and manage resource usage, identifying opportunities for cost savings. Documentation and Reporting: • Maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities, inspections, and repairs. • Generate reports detailing equipment performance, maintenance schedules, and any operational challenges. • Provide regular updates to management regarding equipment reliability and team productivity. Qualifications: • Minimum of 3 years of experience in forklift or material handling equipment maintenance, including prior supervisory experience. • Extensive knowledge of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems in forklifts and related equipment. • Previous experience supervising a team in an airport, warehouse, or logistics environment is preferred. • Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment. • Familiarity with safety regulations and compliance standards for forklift operations. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. • High school diploma or equivalent; technical or trade school certification is a plus. If you are a hands-on leader with technical expertise and a commitment to safety and efficiency, we invite you to apply for the GSE Supervisor – Forklift Mechanics role at Alliance Ground International. Join us in maintaining reliable and safe equipment to support essential operations. Apply today! $30/hr.-$36/hr. Alliance Ground International is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. AGI is committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or veteran status.

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