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For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources

Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics

Median Salary
44,140
Job Outlook
+8%

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul small engines used to power lawn mowers, chain saws, recreational sporting equipment, and related equipment.

What is the job outlook?

Overall employment of small engine mechanics is projected to grow 4 percent from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 8,800 openings for small engine mechanics are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$23,690

10%

$44,140

Median

$55,430

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

What level of education do professionals in this role have?

Education Level

  • High school

    48%

  • Some college

    27%

  • Less than high school

    12%

  • Post-secondary certificate

    12%

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Small Engine Mechanics and Repair Technology/Technician

Skills and Interest

Which skill sets are the most valuable to possess?

Skills

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    High

  • Verbal Skills

    Low

  • Leadership

    Low

  • Math and Science Skills

    Mid

  • Technology Design and Control

    Mid

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    Low

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

  • Mechanical
  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Physics
  • English Language

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    High

  • Physical Activity

    High

  • Decision Making

    Mid

  • Time Pressure

    Low

  • Repetitiveness

    Low

  • Responsibility

    Low

  • Level Of Competition

    Low

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Realistic

You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test