Small Engine Mechanic
How to Become a Small Engine Mechanic
Small Engine Mechanic Job Duties
Skills and Qualities of a Small Engine Mechanic
Small Engine Mechanic Salaries
Influential Professional Small Engine Mechanics
Leading Organizations for Small Engine Mechanics
Top Cities for Small Engine Mechanic Jobs
Other Careers of Interest
How to become a Small Engine Mechanic
While experience gained in an apprenticeship or working with machines, on a hobby level, used to be all that was required to land a job as a small engine mechanic, the intricacy of today's machines has resulted in more and more employers looking for people that have undergone more formalized training. However, due to the lack of specialized education for small engine mechanics, most people still pick up the skills necessary for the position either on the job or in working in related fields.
In most cases, employers would rather hire aspiring small engine mechanics that possess at least a high school diploma for trainee positions. An applicant still has a good chance of being hired even if they do not have such a diploma, but do have sufficient reading, writing and maths capabilities, as well as an aptitude for the job. It would be beneficial for hopefuls who are still in high school to study up on small engine repair and automobile mechanics, as well as science and maths. Depending on the field of specialization that you are interested in, you may also find formal training and instruction useful in finding employment opportunities.
In most cases, employers would rather hire aspiring small engine mechanics that possess at least a high school diploma for trainee positions. An applicant still has a good chance of being hired even if they do not have such a diploma, but do have sufficient reading, writing and maths capabilities, as well as an aptitude for the job. It would be beneficial for hopefuls who are still in high school to study up on small engine repair and automobile mechanics, as well as science and maths. Depending on the field of specialization that you are interested in, you may also find formal training and instruction useful in finding employment opportunities.
What does a Small Engine Mechanic do?
Small engine mechanics are typically called upon to perform a wide variety of tasks, ranging from the repair to the servicing and maintenance of anything from lawnmowers to power tools. While they can choose to specialize in one particular type of machine, they may also be called upon to work with related equipment from time to time.
Oftentimes, small engine mechanics will also have to examine and diagnose problems with the piece of equipment that they are working on. Highly skilled mechanics are typically able to diagnose various problems with the machinery, make an assessment of the type of repairs needed and perform these repairs quickly. These skills require a considerable degree of problem-solving ability, as well as thorough familiarity with the various aspects of the machine's inner workings.
Oftentimes, small engine mechanics will also have to examine and diagnose problems with the piece of equipment that they are working on. Highly skilled mechanics are typically able to diagnose various problems with the machinery, make an assessment of the type of repairs needed and perform these repairs quickly. These skills require a considerable degree of problem-solving ability, as well as thorough familiarity with the various aspects of the machine's inner workings.
What skills or qualities do I need to become a Small Engine Mechanic?
Aspiring small engine mechanics that are seeking employment as trainees, will need a certain degree of mechanical aptitude as well as some knowledge of the inner workings of small engines. Some experience working with various types of motor operated vehicles, even at a hobby level, would be beneficial in this regard. Since many components of small engines are electrical in nature, some knowledge of basic electronics would also come in handy.
Small engine mechanics looking for opportunities for advancement would also have to possess some leadership skills. If a position in sales is what you are after, you will need to have the ability to deal with customers, face to face, as well as have a familiarity with the various aspects of small engines.
Small engine mechanics looking for opportunities for advancement would also have to possess some leadership skills. If a position in sales is what you are after, you will need to have the ability to deal with customers, face to face, as well as have a familiarity with the various aspects of small engines.
How much does a Small Engine Mechanic make?
In May 2006, the average earnings for small engine mechanics were estimated at about $12.94 an hour. Of this figure, the middle half made somewhere between $10.36 and $16.05 an hour, with the lowest 10% making less than $8.31. The highest 10% earned more than $19.31. The average earning per hour for a small engine mechanic working in the equipment and supplies industry was about $12.74.
While small engine mechanics working in smaller business establishments generally receive minimal benefits, those who are employed in larger companies can typically expect paid vacations, sick leave benefits and health insurance. Some small engine mechanics even enjoy additional training, uniforms and assistance with the purchase of equipment and tools.
While small engine mechanics working in smaller business establishments generally receive minimal benefits, those who are employed in larger companies can typically expect paid vacations, sick leave benefits and health insurance. Some small engine mechanics even enjoy additional training, uniforms and assistance with the purchase of equipment and tools.
Who are some influential professionals in this field?
Two of the pioneers in the field of small engine mechanics were the founders of the Briggs & Stratton company. Stephen Foster Briggs and Harold M. Stratton started the company as an informal partnership in 1908, with the original goal of producing automobiles. They surpassed all expectations by producing what was, in 1922, the most affordable car on the market. The car was called the Red Bug and with a list price beginning at $125, it was a huge hit.
The company later on went to focus on automobile parts and small gasoline engines and they were eventually able to secure a patent for an engine that was widely used in washing machines and refrigerators.
The company later on went to focus on automobile parts and small gasoline engines and they were eventually able to secure a patent for an engine that was widely used in washing machines and refrigerators.
What are some leading organizations in this field?
Two of the foremost small engine repair businesses in the country are Clinton Lawn Mower and Small Engine Repair and Costa's Small Engine Repair.
Clinton Lawn Mower and Small Engine Repair are known throughout Clinton, Maryland, as the go to company for high quality lawnmowers and small engine repairs. In addition, the company is also known for providing some of the best new and used equipment and replacement parts for commercial and residential purposes.
Clinton Lawn Mower and Small Engine Repair prides itself in providing top-notch repair service with extremely short turnaround times and reasonable rates. The company has since expanded its operations to become an authorized sales and service company for numerous brands of gas powered engines, covering the range from generators and weed-trimmers, to chainsaws, lawn tractors, mowers and all kinds of small engine repairs.
The company has been in business for more than ten years.
Costa's Small Engine Repair is located in Saint Petersburg, Florida and has made a name for itself as a provider of various types of construction and mining equipment, construction materials and small engine repairs.
Clinton Lawn Mower and Small Engine Repair are known throughout Clinton, Maryland, as the go to company for high quality lawnmowers and small engine repairs. In addition, the company is also known for providing some of the best new and used equipment and replacement parts for commercial and residential purposes.
Clinton Lawn Mower and Small Engine Repair prides itself in providing top-notch repair service with extremely short turnaround times and reasonable rates. The company has since expanded its operations to become an authorized sales and service company for numerous brands of gas powered engines, covering the range from generators and weed-trimmers, to chainsaws, lawn tractors, mowers and all kinds of small engine repairs.
The company has been in business for more than ten years.
Costa's Small Engine Repair is located in Saint Petersburg, Florida and has made a name for itself as a provider of various types of construction and mining equipment, construction materials and small engine repairs.
What are the top cities for Small Engine Mechanic jobs?
Over the next few years, mall engine mechanics can generally expect to experience an average employment growth in the industry, with applicants that have completed formal training programs having more options with regard to employment. In 2006, there were about 78,000 jobs held by small engine mechanics.
Among the cities that currently have the most employment opportunities are Saint Louis, Indianapolis, Charlotte, Dallas, Knightdale and Long Beach.
Among the cities that currently have the most employment opportunities are Saint Louis, Indianapolis, Charlotte, Dallas, Knightdale and Long Beach.
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