GED in CDL / Heavy Equipment Operation / Repair

Why would I want an industrial mechanics and maintenance technology certificate?

Employers looking for industrial mechanics have a difficult time finding qualified candidates to fill their available positions. Those candidates who have formal training and a certificate in industrial mechanics and maintenance technology will have an easy time finding steady work as an industrial mechanic. If you like working with your hands and have an inclination for mechanics and machines, then a certificate in industrial mechanics and maintenance technology would be right up your alley.

What do people with industrial mechanic and maintenance technology certificates do?

People who earn certificates in industrial mechanics and maintenance technology go on to become heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service mechanics and technicians. Heavy vehicle mechanics and technicians repair and maintain engines, transmissions, and electrical systems for heavy vehicles and equipment. This type of equipment is used for things such as moving materials, tilling land, lifting beams, and digging earth to pave the way for development and production. Equipment like this is invaluable for certain industries like construction, agriculture, and transportation.

Like automobile mechanics and technicians, heavy vehicle and mobile equipment mechanics and technicians must be familiar with and be able to use computers and a wide variety of power tools in order to do their jobs correctly. Some of the duties they perform include servicing fuel, brake, and transmission systems to ensure peak performance, safety, and longevity of the equipment; dismantling affected components to examine parts for damage or excessive wear; repairing, replacing, cleaning, and lubricating parts; re-calibrating systems by typing codes into the onboard computer; examining hydraulic systems for fluid leaks, ruptured hoses, or worn gaskets on fluid reservoirs; diagnosing electrical problems and adjusting or replacing defective components; rebuilding brakes; and removing and repairing exhaust systems.

Mechanics and technicians in larger shops typically specialize in a certain area such as brake maintenance and repair, transmission repair, engine rebuilding, or hydraulic system repair and maintenance. Mechanics and technicians in smaller shops generally required to be able to perform repairs and maintenance on a wide variety of systems.

Aside from specializing in a certain system of a vehicle or equipment, heavy vehicle and mobile equipment mechanics and technicians may also specialize in the type of equipment that they work on. The three most common types of vehicles and equipment in the industry include construction and surface mining equipment (such as bulldozers, cranes, graders, and excavators); farming equipment (such as plowing equipment and tractors); and railroad cars and engines.

Some of the most common places that employ heavy vehicle and mobile equipment mechanics and service technicians include:

• Commercial and Industrial Machinery and Equipment Repair and Maintenance
• Other Specialty Trade Contractors
• Commercial and Industrial Machinery and Equipment Rental and Leasing
• Local Government
• Machinery, Equipment, and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers

How much do heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service mechanics and technicians make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service mechanics and technicians in 2018 was $24.96. The middle 50 percent earned between $20.05 and $30.21. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $16.30, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $36.83. These median wages were higher in this industry than the median wages for all installation, maintenance, and repair occupations.

Are heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service mechanic and technician jobs popular?

Jobs in this industry are steady, and job prospects look good into the foreseeable future. Jobs in this industry are expected to grow by 4%, which is about the average growth rate among all jobs. The biggest factor driving demand is an increase use of construction equipment.

As equipment continues to make technological advances, those mechanics and technicians with specialized training will have the best job prospects.

How do I become a heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service mechanic or technician?

In order to become a heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service mechanic or technician you need proper training. This kind of training can be done on the job; although, job prospects and wages are better for those who receive formal training. The best way to receive formal training is by earning a certificate in industrial mechanics and maintenance technology from an accredited institution. Check below to see a list of accredited schools near you.