Overview

A Heavy Duty Equipment Technician inspects, diagnoses, troubleshoots, repairs and verifies the repair of heavy duty equipment such as front end loaders, dozers, dump trucks and compactors. During repairs, they will work on multiple systems such as electrical, hydraulics and diesel and use a range of tools. After repairs, heavy duty equipment technicians will test the performance of the repaired equipment and complete service reports.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Perform maintenance and repair on large-scale mobile and stationary equipment
• Consult equipment operating manuals, blueprints and drawings
• Work on multiple equipment systems such as engines, fuel, electrical, hydrostatic and transmission
• Inspect functional parts of mechanical equipment and heavy machinery
• Test equipment that has been repaired for proper performance
• Bolt, clip, screw or otherwise fastens parts together using common hand tools
• Clean, lubricate and perform other maintenance work
• Diagnose and repair electrical systems and circuitry (a circuit or system of circuits performing a particular function in an electronic device) in accordance with acceptable industry standards
• Estimate time and material costs on vehicle repairs and requisition new parts
• Perform service calls for emergency breakdowns
• Operate and maintain tools, equipment and work areas in accordance with company policy
• Go on site and perform pre-delivery inspections of equipment
• Adjust equipment and repair for replace defective parts
• Perform occasional cutting and welding using both gas and electric welding equipment
• Complete reports and technical documents, including service reports
• Maintain a clean, safe work area in compliance with health and safety standards 

What education and training is required?

Heavy duty equipment technicians require a high school diploma. Many attend vocational schools and community colleges for programs such as diesel technology and heavy equipment mechanics. Some countries, such as Canada, require apprenticeships.

To pursue a career as a Heavy Duty Equipment Technician :

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, agricultural mechanics, mathematics, physics and English.

Where can I work?

Heavy duty equipment technicians work in multiple industries such as agriculture, mines, construction, forestry, marine, transportation, natural resources and materials-handling.

Future Job Market / Outlook

Excellent

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• Heavy Equipment Operators Association
• National Associations of Manufacturers
• State and local equipment operators associations