Median hourly earnings of mobile heavy equipment mechanics were $17.29 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $14.13 and $20.88. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $11.54, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $24.90. Median hourly earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of mobile heavy equipment mechanics in 2002 were as follows:
| Federal Government | $19.44 |
| Local government | 18.03 |
| Other specialty trade contractors | 17.72 |
| Machinery, equipment, and supplies merchant wholesalers | 17.10 |
| Commercial and industrial machinery and equipment rental and leasing | 15.81 |
Median hourly earnings of farm equipment mechanics were $13.03 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $10.50 and $16.01. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $8.73, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $18.86.
Median hourly earnings of railcar repairers were $18.78 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $15.65 and $21.18. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $12.07, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $23.76. In 2002, median hourly earnings were $19.72 in rail transportation, the industry employing the largest number of railcar repairers.
Many heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians and mechanics are members of unions, including the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, the International Union of Operating Engineers, and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Heavy vehicles and mobile equipment are indispensable to many industrial activities, from construction to railroads. Various types of equipment move materials, till land, lift beams, and dig earth to pave the way for development and production. Heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians and mechanics repair and maintain engines and hydraulic, transmission, and electrical systems powering farm equipment, cranes, bulldozers, and railcars. (For more detailed information on service technicians specializing in diesel engines, see the statement on diesel service technicians and mechanics elsewhere in the Handbook.)
Service technicians perform routine maintenance checks on diesel engines and on fuel, brake, and transmission systems to ensure peak performance, safety, and longevity of the equipment. Maintenance checks and comments from equipment operators usually alert technicians to problems. With many types of modern heavy and mobile equipment, technicians can plug hand-held diagnostic computers into onboard computers to diagnose any component needing adjustment or repair. After locating the problem, these technicians rely on their training and experience to use the best possible technique to solve the problem. If necessary, they may partially dismantle the component to examine parts for damage or excessive wear. Then, using hand-held tools, they repair, replace, clean, and lubricate parts as necessary. In some cases, technicians calibrate systems by typing codes into the onboard computer. After reassembling the component and testing it for safety, they put it back into the equipment and return the equipment to the field.
Many types of heavy and mobile equipment use hydraulics, to raise and lower movable parts. When hydraulic components malfunction, technicians examine them for fluid leaks, ruptured hoses, or worn gaskets on fluid reservoirs. Occasionally, the equipment requires extensive repairs, as when a defective hydraulic pump is replaced.
In addition to conducting routine maintenance checks, service technicians perform a variety of other repairs. They also disassemble and repair undercarriages and track assemblies. Occasionally, technicians weld broken equipment frames and structural parts, using electric or gas welders.
It is common for technicians in large shops to specialize in one or two types of repair. For example, a shop may have individual specialists in major engine repair, transmission work, electrical systems, and suspension or brake systems. The technology used in heavy equipment is becoming more sophisticated with the increased use of electronic and computer-controlled components. Training in electronics is essential for these technicians to make engine adjustments and diagnose problems. Training in the use of hand-held computers also is necessary, because computers help technicians diagnose problems and adjust the functions of components.
Service technicians use a variety of tools in their work: power tools, such as pneumatic wrenches, to remove bolts quickly; machine tools, like lathes and grinding machines, to rebuild brakes; welding and flame-cutting equipment, to remove and repair exhaust systems; and jacks and hoists, to lift and move large parts. Service technicians also use common handtools—screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches—to work on small parts and to get at hard-to-reach places. They may use a variety of computerized testing equipment to pinpoint and analyze malfunctions in electrical systems and other essential systems. For example, tachometers and dynamometers serve to locate engine malfunctions. Service technicians also use ohmmeters, ammeters, and voltmeters when working on electrical systems.
Mobile heavy equipment mechanics and service technicians keep construction and surface mining equipment, such as bulldozers, cranes, crawlers, draglines, graders, excavators, and other equipment, in working order. Typically, these workers are employed by equipment wholesale distribution and leasing firms, large construction and mining companies, local and Federal governments, and other organizations operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment fleets. Service technicians employed by the Federal Government may work on tanks and other armored equipment.
Farm equipment mechanics service, maintain, and repair farm equipment, as well as smaller lawn and garden tractors sold to suburban homeowners. What typically was a general repairer’s job around the farm has evolved into a specialized technical career. Farmers have increasingly turned to farm equipment dealers to service and repair their equipment because the machinery has grown in complexity. Modern equipment uses more electronics and hydraulics, making it difficult to perform repairs without some specialized training.
Farm equipment mechanics work mostly on equipment brought into the shop for repair and adjustment. During planting and harvesting seasons, they may travel to farms to make emergency repairs to minimize delays in farm operations.
Railcar repairers specialize in servicing railroad locomotives and other rolling stock, streetcars and subway cars, or mine cars. Most work for railroads, public and private transit companies, and railcar manufacturers.
Opportunities for heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians and mechanics should be good for those who have completed formal training programs in diesel or heavy equipment mechanics. Persons without formal training are expected to encounter growing difficulty entering these jobs.
Employment of heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow slower than the average for all occupations through the year 2012. Most job openings will arise from the need to replace experienced repairers who retire. Employers report difficulty finding candidates with formal postsecondary training to fill available service technician positions, because many young people with mechanic training and experience opt to take jobs as automotive service technicians, diesel service technicians, or industrial machinery repairers—jobs that offer more openings and a wider variety of locations in which to work.
Faster employment growth is expected for mobile heavy equipment mechanics than for farm equipment mechanics or railcar repairers. Increasing numbers of heavy duty and mobile equipment service technicians will be required to support growth in the construction industry, equipment dealers, and rental and leasing companies. Because of the nature of construction activity, demand for service technicians follows the Nation’s economic cycle. As the economy expands, construction activity increases, resulting in the use of more mobile heavy equipment to grade construction sites, excavate basements, and lay water and sewer lines. The increased use of such equipment increases the need for periodic service and repair. In addition, the construction and repair of highways and bridges requires more technicians to service equipment. As equipment becomes more complicated, repairs increasingly must be made by specially trained technicians. Job openings for farm equipment mechanics and railcar repairers are expected to arise mostly because of replacement needs.
Construction and mining are particularly sensitive to changes in the level of economic activity; therefore, heavy and mobile equipment may be idled during downturns. In addition, winter is traditionally the slow season for construction and farming activity, particularly in cold regions. Few technicians may be needed during periods when equipment is used less; however, employers usually try to retain experienced workers. Employers may be reluctant to hire inexperienced workers during slow periods.
.Many persons qualify for service technician jobs through years of on-the-job training, but most employers prefer that applicants complete a formal diesel or heavy equipment mechanic training program after graduating from high school. They seek persons with mechanical aptitude who are knowledgeable about the fundamentals of diesel engines, transmissions, electrical systems, and hydraulics. In addition, the constant change in equipment technology makes it necessary for technicians to be flexible and have the capacity to learn new skills quickly.
Many community colleges and vocational schools offer programs in diesel technology. Some tailor programs to heavy equipment mechanics. These programs educate the student in the basics of analytical and diagnostic techniques, electronics, and hydraulics. The increased use of electronics and computers makes training in the fundamentals of electronics essential for new heavy and mobile equipment mechanics. Some 1- to 2-year programs lead to a certificate of completion, whereas others lead to an associate degree in diesel or heavy equipment mechanics. These programs not only provide a foundation in the components of diesel and heavy equipment technology, but also enable trainee technicians to advance more rapidly to the journey, or experienced worker, level.
A combination of formal and on-the-job training prepares trainee technicians with the knowledge to service and repair equipment handled by a shop. After a few months’ experience, most beginners perform routine service tasks and make minor repairs. As they prove their ability and competence, they advance to harder jobs. After trainees master the repair and service of diesel engines, they learn to work on related components, such as brakes, transmissions, and electrical systems. Generally, a service technician with at least 3 to 4 years of on-the-job experience is accepted as fully qualified.
Many employers send trainee technicians to training sessions conducted by heavy equipment manufacturers. The sessions, which typically last up to 1 week, provide intensive instruction in the repair of the manufacturer’s equipment. Some sessions focus on particular components found in the equipment, such as diesel engines, transmissions, axles, and electrical systems. Other sessions focus on particular types of equipment, such as crawler-loaders and crawler-dozers. As they progress, trainees may periodically attend additional training sessions. When appropriate, experienced technicians attend training sessions to gain familiarity with new technology or equipment.
High school courses in automobile repair, physics, chemistry, and mathematics provide a strong foundation for a career as a service technician or mechanic. It is also essential for technicians to be able to read and interpret service manuals in order to keep abreast of engineering changes. Experience working on diesel engines and heavy equipment acquired in the Armed Forces is valuable as well.
Voluntary certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is recognized as the standard of achievement for heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians, who may be certified as a master heavy-duty diesel technician or in a specific area of heavy-duty equipment repair, such as brakes, gasoline engines, diesel engines, drivetrains, electrical systems, or suspension and steering. For certification in each area, technicians must pass a written examination and have at least 2 years’ experience. High school, vocational or trade school, or community or junior college training in gasoline or diesel engine repair may substitute for up to 1 year’s experience. To remain certified, technicians must be retested every 5 years. Retesting ensures that service technicians keep up with changing technology. However, there are currently no certification programs for other heavy vehicle and mobile equipment repair specialties.
The most important work possessions of technicians are their handtools. Service technicians typically buy their own handtools, and many experienced technicians have thousands of dollars invested in them. Employers typically furnish expensive power tools, computerized engine analyzers, and other diagnostic equipment, but handtools are normally accumulated with experience.
Experienced technicians may advance to field service jobs, wherein they have a greater opportunity to tackle problems independently and earn additional pay. Technicians with leadership ability may become shop supervisors or service managers. Some technicians open their own repair shops or invest in a franchise.
.Workers in related repair occupations include aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians; automotive service technicians and mechanics; diesel service technicians and mechanics; heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers; and small engine mechanics.
More details about job openings for heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians and mechanics may be obtained from local heavy and mobile equipment dealers and distributors, construction contractors, and government agencies. Local offices of the State employment service also may have information on job openings and training programs.
For general information about a career as a heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technician or mechanic, contact:
For a directory of public training programs in heavy and mobile equipment mechanics, contact:
A list of certified diesel service technician training programs can be obtained from:
Information on certification as a heavy-duty diesel service technician is available from:
Biomedical equipment technicians install, inspect, service, and repair medical equipment. Learn more with an informational interview with a local employer. Radiology equipment specialists maintain and repair X-ray and imaging equipment. Biomedical engineering technicians can advance as they gain more experience. There are usually four levels of biomedical equipment technicians.
Summary of: http://www3.ccps.virginia.edu/career_prospects/briefs/A-D/BiomedEquipTechs.shtml
What would we do without the telephone. Fortunately, we do have telephones, and with them, telephone equipment technicians to maintain these miraculous instruments of modern life. Telephone equipment technicians install and maintain phones, phone lines, switches, and other equipment needed to keep telephone systems up and running. Telephone switches are more reliable than they used to be and maintenance is easier. They set up, maintain, and repair the switches, cables, and other equipment that route telephone calls to their destinations.
Summary of: http://www3.ccps.virginia.edu/career_prospects/briefs/T-Z/TelephoneTechs.shtml
Opprtunities are expected to be good for persons who complete formal training programs. National certification is the recognized standard of achievement for diesel service technicians and mechanics. Diesel-powered engines also are becoming more prevalent in light vehicles, including pickups and other work trucks. Some diesel technicians and mechanics also work on heavy vehicles and mobile equipment, including bulldozers, cranes, road graders, farm tractors, and combines. A small number of technicians repair diesel-powered passenger automobiles, light trucks, or boats.
Summary of: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos182.htm
Central office equipment installers, or equipment installation technicians, set up, rearrange, and remove the switching and dialing equipment used in central offices. When customers report trouble with their telephones, maintenance administrators find the source of the problem. Trouble locators who work for cable television companies ensure that subscribers' television sets receive the proper signal. They may work with cable installers to track down the cause of the interference and make repairs. PBX installers, also called systems technicians, install complex telephone equipment, often creating customized switching systems.
Summary of: http://www.umsl.edu/services/govdocs/ooh9899/93.htm
Turftech Online, Inc. New Maintenance Download - Steve Loska We have a new download for Members. Got a good one and the crew runs like a well-oiled machine. And if you have a good one why not nominate him - or her (yes, The Crew knows of some top-notch women wrench turners) - for Technician of the Year. Tech is the very first, and only, publication written exclusively for professional automotive technicians.
Summary of: http://www.turftech.com/
As the task of taking pictures has been greatly simplified, the internal workings of even simple cameras have grown increasingly complex with electronic circuitry and precision mechanical parts. THE JOB PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT TECHNICIANS keep cameras, lenses, projectors, and other photographic equipment in good repair. Employed by independent repair shops, equipment manufacturers, or retailers, they dismantle cameras and clean, adjust, and repair all types of photographic equipment. They may also be responsible for maintaining parts inventories by ordering parts and supplies from manufacturers and wholesalers. Some camera stores in outlying communities maintain small repair staffs, sending more difficult work to manufacturer service centers or to larger repair shops.
Summary of: http://www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occguide/PHOTOEQP.HTM
Opportunities should be excellent, but competition is likely for the best paying airline jobs. Inspections take place following a schedule based on the number of hours the aircraft has flown, calendar days since the last inspection, cycles of operation, or a combination of these factors. To examine an engine, aircraft mechanics work through specially designed openings while standing on ladders or scaffolds, or use hoists or lifts to remove the entire engine from the craft. Worn or defective parts are repaired or replaced. Coursework in these trade schools normally lasts from 24 to 30 months and provides training with the tools and equipment used on the job.
Summary of: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos179.htm
This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job. Job Training Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.
Summary of: http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/27-4011.00
They are employed by electronic service and retail establishments, by wholesale distributors and within service departments of electronic manufacturing companies. Interprovincial trade certification (Red Seal) is also available to qualified electronics technicians, consumer products. In Quebec, membership in the regulatory body is required to use the title of Professional Technologist. Additional information Red Seal trade certification allows for interprovincial mobility. Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
Summary of: http://www23.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/2001/e/groups/2242.shtml
This occupation offers relatively high wages and the challenge of skilled repair work. Skill in using computerized diagnostic equipment is becoming more important. Maintenance checks and comments from equipment operators usually alert technicians to problems. With many types of modern heavy and mobile equipment, technicians can plug hand-held diagnostic computers into onboard computers to diagnose any component needing adjustment or repair. In addition to routine maintenance checks, service technicians perform a variety of other repairs.
Summary of: http://www.umsl.edu/services/govdocs/ooh20022003/ocos197.htm