What Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines do
The U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET database describes the work of Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines this way: "Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul mobile mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, graders, and conveyors, used in construction, logging, and mining."
The core tasks O*NET records for this occupation include: "Test mechanical products and equipment after repair or assembly to ensure proper performance and compliance with manufacturers' specifications"; "Repair and replace damaged or worn parts"; "Operate and inspect machines or heavy equipment to diagnose defects"; "Diagnose faults or malfunctions to determine required repairs, using engine diagnostic equipment such as computerized test equipment and calibration devices"; "Dismantle and reassemble heavy equipment using hoists and hand tools".
Education, experience and training
According to the BLS Employment Projections, the typical education needed to enter this occupation is high school diploma or equivalent. Typical on-the-job training to reach competency is long-term on-the-job training.
Job outlook for Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
The Bureau of Labor Statistics counted 180,300 jobs in this occupation in 2025 and projects 192,500 in 2035, an increase of 12,200 jobs (+6.7%). That is faster than the 3.5% projected for all occupations.
About 15,000 openings a year are projected on average, counting both new positions and positions vacated by workers who retire or switch occupations. Relative to today's employment that is 8.3% a year, against 10.3% for all occupations. BLS lists a national median annual wage of $65,510, compared with $50,980 for all occupations.
Where Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines earn the most
Published data currently covers California, where the employment-weighted average of local median wages is $79,889. More states are added as pages are published.
Occupations related to Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
Other occupations in the same SOC minor group (49-3000) include Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians, Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists, Automotive Body and Related Repairers and Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics.
Frequently asked questions about Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
How much do Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines earn in the United States?
BLS lists a national median annual wage of $65,510.
Is Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines a growing occupation?
BLS projects employment to grow by 6.7% between 2025 and 2035, compared with 3.5% for all occupations, with about 15,000 openings a year.
What education do Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines need?
The typical entry-level education is high school diploma or equivalent and long-term on-the-job training, according to BLS.