|
Heavy equipment mechanic; nationwide or worldwideThe heavy equipment mechanic can pretty much work worldwide. From construction to rail transportation, here are a few places to work as a heavy equipment mechanic; construction, shipping, trucking, energy systems, rail, farming industry, mining, heavy vehicles and military mobile equipment. Technicians perform routine maintenance checks, repair and maintain engines and hydraulic systems, transmissions and electrical systems. Some different areas to add to the list are agricultural equipment, industrial, construction equipment, rail systems and equipment, military, (remember; you can work for the military as a civilian) some daily checks include: fuel system, brakes, and transmissions. Presently the majority of shops, small and large, will use some type of diagnosis equipment. This equipment may be a hand held computer or even a type of laptop, so get exposed and get trained. These units will be used to diagnose parts that require adjustment, and repair or replacement. This position requires and everyday used of various power hand tools. Some examples are: screw drivers, drills, air wrenches, air ratchets, lathes, grinding machines, and power saws. Welding experience is a big plus. As far as your work area; typically large shops or small shops. Large shops have maybe 2 types of major repair in the following areas: engine repair, transmission repair, electrical systems, suspension systems and brake systems. Small shops perform multiple tasks. Most of the time, this job is performed indoors. There will be field service at some facilities. Field repairs will usually be outdoors. Most field technicians have a specialty. Many field techs spend most of their time away from the shop. They must have their trucks fully equipped with the parts and tools required for the job. The work hours with this trade: generally there 6 to 7 days a week 40+ hours (average 50 to 60 hours). We recommend formal training. If one has an automotive mechanic background this would provide a solid foundation. Most industry professionals recommend a Diesel or heave equipment mechanic training. Many skills are learned on the job. What you need to know: diesel engines, transmissions, electrical systems and diagnosis, computer basics, hydraulic fundamentals and system diagnosis. Manufacturer’s equipment training, Military training, trade school, Certifications/Licenses/Permits. These credentials will allow employees to move ahead faster than those who do not possess such credentials. Employment: Heavy equipment mechanics and mobile equipment mechanics held about 195,000 jobs in 2009. Areas: construction, manufacturing, leasing services, engineering, shipping, civil engineering, commercial and industrial areas. Heavy equipment mechanics are employed nationwide nearly in every region of the country. The Outlook: The outlook is great for this trade. It is growing faster than average. The opportunities look very good for those who complete any post secondary “training”. Employers will always be interested in quality applicants. Stay current on training as much as possible in the area you wish to advance in. The Pay: Here is another position that enables the skilled technician to dictate his or her pay. The average technician in this field will make about 45k to 55k per year... The above average people make 70k – 85k and up.
|
