Position Profile
Heavy Equipment Technician
Some of the Facts
Heavy Equipment Technicians Are Essential
Heavy Equipment Technicians can go by many names. They are often referred to as Heavy Duty Mechanics, Diesel Mechanics, Aerial Lift Technicians, Crane Mechanics and Heavy Duty Equipment Technicians. Heavy Equipment Technicians can be responsible for a wide variety of equipment across various industries including Construction, Forestry, Oil and Gas, Manufacturing, Mining and Agriculture.
Without qualified Heavy Equipment Technicians, many industries would not be able to function and our Economy would fall apart. It is an incredibly important job and can be a rewarding career for many. The demand is very high and likely to increase in the coming years. Now is a great time to consider a career as a Heavy Equipment
“Without Heavy Equipment Technicians The Economy Would Fall Apart"
Equipment Techs Enjoy Variety of Work
What A Equipment Tech Works On
Mining Equipment
Construction Equipment
Material Handling Equipment
Agricultural Equipment
How To Become A
Heavy Duty Mechanic
Start a Rewarding Career as A
Equipment Technician
Successful Heavy Equipment Technicians need to master many skills including electrical, hydraulics, diesel engine, diagnostics and welding. While these skills can be honed on the job it can be very hard to learn everything at once. Many technicians will start their career as a shop helper while learning from Journeyman.
At Rockstar Mechanics we always recommend starting with schooling. School can not replace experience but a good trade school can give you an excellent base so that when you get into the shop you can start contributing right away.
There Are Many Good Tech Colleges
Rockstar Recommendations
Certification/Training
Increase Your Value with Certification
A Certification or License is only a piece of paper but it signifies so much more. It indicates to employers that you take the trade seriously and that you know what you are doing.
Every single training program that you take will make you more valuable. The more valuable you are the higher your base wage will be and the more opportunities that will be available for promotion.
Attitude Is As Important as Training
The trade is difficult, it takes time to learn, no one is going to be an expert over night. Be patient and come in every day with an attitude to learn.
- No Whining
- Ask For Help
- Take Training
- Be On Time
- Stay Until The Job Is Done
- Help Others
Career Path Options
Journeyman Technicians who have been working in the trade for several years and have built up significant expertise often like to transition to a role as a Mobile Mechanic. This involves working independently outside of the confines of the shop and repairing equipment where it breaks down. Field roles are not for everyone as it does require very strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to work effectively in the elements.
Many experienced technicians like to use their experience and expertise to train the next generation of Heavy Equipment Technicians. Trade Schools are always looking for new instructors and many companies also employ in house trainers.
While management is not for everyone many techs are able to climb the ladder into supervisory and management roles. These are challenging positions but can be very rewarding.
Wrenching is a very physically demanding job, many technicians chose to move into a parts or service admin role later in their career. This is a great way to use the knowledge they have gained while taking on a less physically demanding role.
The lessons learned as a tech can translate into a trustworthy and reliable sales rep. While not all technicians will enjoy sales there are some that love talking about the ins and outs of trucks and they typically can go on to a career in sales.
Mechanics, What is Your Exit Strategy?
Mechanics have to have a plan for how and when to get off the shop floor. Start planning for your future career now!