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Construction Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Hourly Rates up to Jobs Available
$63 16,700+

What Does a Heavy Equipment Mechanic Do?

If you aren’t afraid of a little grease and you like the idea of getting your hands on some powerful equipment, a heavy equipment mechanic job could be a great fit. 

Also known as heavy-duty equipment mechanics or heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians, these specialists inspect, maintain and repair machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, graders, excavators and other equipment. 

They repair diesel- and gas-powered engines, hydraulic systems and other key components of heavy machinery to keep them operating safely. 

Mechanics keep vital machines running smoothly, so they are in demand in many industries, including construction, farming, mining and rail transport.

If you’re mechanically inclined and are interested in a stable career, keep reading to learn more. 

A heavy equipment mechanic inspects a broken excavator arm
If you're a good problem-solver, consider a career as a heavy equipment mechanic. (Photo: Virrage Images/Shutterstock)

Responsibilities

  • Inspect heavy equipment
  • Diagnose problems, often using computerized tools
  • Repair or replace defective parts using hand tools and power tools
  • Test equipment that has been repaired and make adjustments 
  • Clean, lubricate and perform other routine maintenance work
  • Disassemble and reassemble equipment
  • Consult equipment operating manuals and blueprints
  • Travel to worksites to repair heavy equipment
  • Maintain equipment repair logs

How To Become a Heavy Equipment Mechanic: FAQs

The bottom line:

This is a hands-on career for someone who likes to fix the biggest machines. It’s stable and offers a good paycheck even with limited training. For someone who likes the satisfaction of keeping crucial machines in good working order, this could be a job worth exploring. Look for training opportunities near you. 

Find Heavy Equipment Mechanic Training In Your Area

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ThinkBIG Apprentice Program Empire CAT

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Apprenticeship–Operating Engineers Certificate Of Achievement

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Yancey Bros. Technician Trainee Program

As an On Highway Diesel Truck Trainee you will gain a solid understanding of diesel engines, hydraulics and electrical fundamentals, of how they work... Read More
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Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology - Specialization in Forklift Repair Certificate

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Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology, A.A.S.

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Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Diploma

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Engine Systems Certificate

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