To work as a heavy equipment mechanic, you must:

have a high school diploma or GED;

complete a formal training program;

complete on-the-job training; and

have mechanical aptitude.

Education after high school

Some heavy equipment mechanics complete diesel technology programs. Trade schools and community colleges offer these programs. Some of these programs focus on heavy equipment mechanics. You learn the fundamentals of diesel engines, transmissions, and hydraulics. Most programs offer a combination of class instruction and hands-on practice. Programs last six months to two years. Two-year programs usually grant an associate degree.

Apprenticeship programs usually consist of four years of on-the-job training. You are paid for the time you spend on the job. In addition, each year you receive at least 144 hours of classroom training.

You can prepare for an apprenticeship by taking courses at a trade school or community college. Courses in general math, and mechanics prepare students to enter apprenticeship programs. However, these courses are not required to qualify for an apprenticeship.

On-the-job training

Many heavy equipment mechanics receive training on the job from an experienced mechanic. You begin by working as a helper. As a helper, you perform routine services and make minor repairs. As you get more experience, you work on more complex tasks. On-the-job training usually takes three to four years to complete.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be mechanics. They offer training in several types of engines, such as boat, auto, and heavy equipment. Training lasts eight to 29 weeks, depending on your specialty. Further training occurs on the job.

Usually work a 40-hour week.

May travel many miles from the repair shop to reach equipment needing repair.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANICS will:

Repair machines used in industrial work (such as construction and logging)

Use gauges, meters, and hand tools

May travel to get to equipment needing repair

HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANICS frequently:

Are sometimes exposed to hazardous equipment. The likelihood of injury is low. However, any injuries are likely to be moderate.

Sometimes work outdoors at the work site, and sometimes work indoors in the repair shop.

Sometimes stand or lie in awkward positions to repair equipment.

May be exposed to situations that produce minor cuts or burns. The likelihood of even slight injury is low.

May work in shops that are drafty or noisy, though this is rare.

May be exposed to sounds and noise levels that are uncomfortable.

It is important that HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANICS be able to:

Must be sure that all details are done and their work is exact. Errors could seriously endanger their own safety or the safety of workers who operate the equipment.