Other Small Engine and Small Equipment Repairers

Nature of work

Workers in this group test, repair, and service small gasoline and diesel-powered engines and equipment like garden tractors, lawnmowers, and other related equipment. They work for dealer service shops and independent service companies.

Job duties

Workers in this group:

• Review work orders and discuss work to be completed with supervisor.
• Inspect and test engines and other mechanical components using test devices to diagnose and isolate faults.
• Adjust, repair, or replace mechanical or electrical system parts and components using hand tools and equipment.
• Test and adjust repaired equipment for proper performance.
• Perform scheduled maintenance service on equipment.
• Advise customers on work performed and general condition of equipment.
• Determine estimates of repair cost.

Sample job titles

• amusement device mechanic
• inflatable amusement device mechanic
• small engine and equipment mechanic
• small engine mechanic
• small engine repairer
• small engine technician
• small equipment repairer

Skills

• Mechanical aptitude
• Logical thinking
• Basic computer skills
• Customer relations skills
• The ability to work alone or in a team
• Amusement device mechanics should understand pneumatics, gearboxes, conveyors, hydraulics, and other systems used in the operations of amusement park rides.

Job requirements

• High school is usually required.
• A combination of several years of work experience in the trade and some high school or college courses in small engine or equipment repair is usually required for trade certification.
• Amusement device mechanics need a combination of several years of work experience in the trade and some high school or college courses in pneumatics, gearboxes, conveyors, hydraulics, and other systems used in the operations of amusement park rides to qualify for a license.
• Inflatable amusement device mechanics must write and score a minimum of 70% on the online inflatable amusement device mechanic exam.
• Certification for amusement device mechanics is mandatory in Nova Scotia.

Other considerations

• Amusement device mechanics inspect, maintain, and repair rides like roller coasters, Ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, water slides, go-karts, bumper cars, inflatable bouncers, bungee devices, zip lines, and other generic spinning and whirling rides.
• The work location varies depending on the type of technician. Power equipment technicians work mainly indoors in shops or travel to make service calls. Amusement device mechanics work indoors and outdoors depending on the work location. The work can be dirty, greasy, and noisy.
• Workers may need to stand for long periods or work in awkward, tight, or confined spaces. There is some risk of injury when working with hand and power tools or with hot engines and sharp edges. The work environment may be loud enough to cause hearing loss.
• Hours of work vary from regular hours to long and hectic hours during busy seasons. Some evening, weekend, or holiday work may be required.
• Workers may be self-employed and provide services as needed to their clients. Therefore, earnings may vary throughout the year and depend upon the person's ability to attract and retain customers. Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
• Experienced technicians may move into supervisory or service manager positions, be self-employed or start their own businesses. In the recreational equipment field, technicians may experience seasonal layoffs during the winter months.

Regulations

Contacts

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