Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul mobile mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, graders, and conveyors, used in construction, logging, and mining.
SOC: 49-3042.00
Common Job Titles
Equipment Mechanic
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Heavy Equipment Technician
Mechanic
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeAnalyze mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic system failures using diagnostic computers and multimeters in field and shop environments.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform complex repairs and overhauls on mobile heavy equipment including cranes, bulldozers, and graders, following safety protocols.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate equipment performance and compliance with manufacturer specifications through systematic inspection and quality control testing.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret technical manuals, schematics, and diagnostic codes to determine repair procedures for complex equipment systems.
Proficient
KnowledgeJustify repair recommendations and replacement part selections when consulting with equipment operators and fleet managers.
Proficient
MindsetPrioritize repair tasks and resource allocation to minimize equipment downtime in construction, logging, and mining operations.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate welding equipment and cutting torches to fabricate and repair metal components on construction and mining equipment.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate hydraulic and pneumatic control systems using precision measuring instruments and pressure gauges.
Developing
Hands-onExecute preventive maintenance procedures on heavy mobile equipment following scheduled service intervals and safety regulations.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate specialized hand tools and power equipment to disassemble, repair, and reassemble heavy equipment components.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of mechanical physics and engineering principles to solve novel equipment malfunctions under time pressure.
Developing
MindsetEngage in continuous learning of emerging heavy equipment technologies including electronic control systems and computerized diagnostics.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
180,270
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $45,450. 25th percentile: U.S. $53,500. 50th percentile: U.S. $63,980. 75th percentile: U.S. $78,090. 90th percentile: U.S. $92,360. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$45,450
10% of workers earn the following or more
$92,360
Workers on average earn
$67,580
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Mechanical4.8/5
Customer and Personal Service3.3/5
Mathematics3.3/5
Computers and Electronics3.1/5
Public Safety and Security3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
