An outdoor power equipment and small engine mechanic repairs and maintains the engines and systems that power lawn mowers, chainsaws, generators, and other equipment. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start without a four-year degree.
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You diagnose problems with small engines and outdoor power equipment, then repair or replace parts to get them running again. Your day involves inspecting equipment for damage, making decisions about what needs fixing, and handling tools and components. You stay current with new equipment models and technologies, communicate with customers about their needs, and document your work. You might service residential equipment one day and commercial landscaping gear the next. The work requires attention to detail and the ability to think through mechanical problems systematically.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics earn a median of $47,880 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 3,500 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. You'll typically start through on-the-job training with an experienced mechanic or at a service center, learning to diagnose and repair specific equipment types. Some people pursue formal training programs in small engine repair or equipment maintenance before entering the field. As you gain experience, you develop the mechanical knowledge and troubleshooting skills that make you valuable to employers. Many mechanics specialize in particular equipment brands or types over time.
You can enter this field through apprenticeships, technical training programs, or direct entry with on-the-job training. Your path depends on what's available in your area and how quickly you want to start earning, so explore your options with Pathly can map the outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanic path that fits you and work through it with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as an outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanic, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like working with your hands and solving practical problems. You're detail-oriented, enjoy learning how things work, and prefer roles where you can see the direct results of your effort.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).