Outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics
SOC Code: 49-3053Also known as:
Chain Saw Mechanic, Chainsaw Technician, Edge Trimmer Mechanic, Electric Golf Cart Repairer, Electric Wheelchair Repairer
Median Annual Salary
$46,560
+2.5% growth (2024-2034)
4K
Openings/Year
37K
Current Jobs
What Outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics Do
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul small engines used to power lawn mowers, chain saws, recreational sporting equipment, and related equipment.
💰 Salary
$46,560
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+2.5%
As fast as average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
4K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
36,900
Projected Employment (2034)
37,800
Related Careers
Electric motor, power tool, and related repairers
$53,990 •
+3.4% growth
Bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists
$60,640 •
+2.4% growth
Mobile heavy equipment mechanics, except engines
$63,980 •
+5.8% growth
Motorboat mechanics and service technicians
$54,950 •
+6.0% growth
Motorcycle mechanics
$47,200 •
+5.3% growth
Top Skills Required
Equipment Maintenance
Repairing
Troubleshooting
Operations Monitoring
Critical Thinking
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Record repairs made, time spent, and parts used.
- Test and inspect engines to determine malfunctions, to locate missing and broken parts, and to verify repairs, using diagnostic instruments.
- Dismantle engines, using hand tools, and examine parts for defects.
- Repair and maintain gasoline engines used to power equipment such as portable saws, lawn mowers, generators, and compressors.
- Adjust points, valves, carburetors, distributors, and spark plug gaps, using feeler gauges.
- Repair or replace defective parts such as magnetos, water pumps, gears, pistons, and carburetors, using hand tools.
- Perform routine maintenance such as cleaning and oiling parts, honing cylinders, and tuning ignition systems.
- Reassemble engines after repair or maintenance work is complete.
- Replace motors.
- Obtain problem descriptions from customers, and prepare cost estimates for repairs.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics:
Small Engine Mechanics and Repair Technology/Technician
204 degrees awarded •
28 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics make?
The median annual salary for outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics is $46,560.
What education do outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics need?
Most outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Small Engine Mechanics and Repair Technology/Technician.
Is becoming outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics a good career choice?
Outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics is projected to see +2.5% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 3,500 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics?
Top colleges for aspiring outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics include
Arkansas State University-Beebe, Chippewa Valley Technical College, Northwood Technical College, Great Lakes Boat Building School, Washington County Community College.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics?
Outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics may also be known as: Chain Saw Mechanic, Chainsaw Technician, Edge Trimmer Mechanic, Electric Golf Cart Repairer, Electric Wheelchair Repairer, Engine Mechanic, Engine Service Repairer, Engine Specialist, Garden Equipment Mechanic, Garden Implement Mechanic, Garden Machinery Mechanic, Garden Tractor Mechanic, Gas Engine Mechanic, Gas Engine Repairer, Gas Golf Cart Repairer, Generator Technician (Generator Tech), Go-Cart Mechanic, Golf Cart Mechanic, Golf Course Mechanic, Jet Ski Mechanic.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.