So, just what is a heavy vehicle mechanic? Well, they are trained to inspect, diagnose and repair mobile and heavy equipment used in the farming, construction, railroad and other industries. Typically, their responsibilities include performing preventative maintenance, doing diagnostic tests, determining and performing required repairs, and part assembly. Since some heavy equipment vehicles are not always easy to move, it is sometimes required that the technician travel to a worksite for repair, as opposed to working in their shop or dealership.
Many mechanics will specialize in certain types of equipment, including the following:
– Farm equipment
– Mobile heavy equipment
– Rail cars
Training and Certification
While it is not necessary for heavy vehicle mechanics to complete formal school, there are many benefits to doing so, namely the potential for earning a higher income. Whenever an employer has to spend less time training a new employee because of previous qualifications, they are typically willing to pay the employee more, and this is the case with heavy vehicle technicians. Programs for formal training are typically run by community colleges and vocational schools, and last 1 to 2 years in length. These programs will typically include both classroom and hands-on training in the basics of diagnostics, repair, assembly and disassembly, electronics and mechanics. Additionally, manufacturers of heavy equipment often hold training courses and seminars on their specific products, and workers may be required to attend these as well, particularly for warranty and manufacturer specific work.
Heavy Vehicle Mechanic Salary
Heavy vehicle technicians typically receive pay that is above average for those is the field, with the median salary in 2010, according 
to the BLS. Pay may be higher or lower, depending on the specific field the mechanic is working in. Fields that pay higher, on average, include rail car repair and mobile field mechanics, while farm mechanics pays lower than average. Additionally, many technicians are also union members, which may provide additional benefits to what workers are getting from their employers.
Job Outlook
Employment growth for heavy vehicle mechanics is expected to be in line with average growth in the field, with an increase of 16% expected between 2010 and 2020. Construction is very much dependent on economic conditions, so should those improve from today, it is possible that more equipment will be needed, thus increasing the demand for maintenance and repairs. Additionally, infrastructure improvements are also a very popular topic of conversation right now, and should the U.S. begin to invest more heavily in improving roads and bridges, it may have a positive effect on the construction industry as a whole, including mechanics. Formal training will help you stand out to potential employers, so it is important to consider that option when looking into this career field
Get a hands-on education at Lincoln Tech. Designed for today’s tough job market, our in-depth programs cover many fields including: Health Sciences, Business and Information Technology, Hospitality, Automotive Technology, HVAC Technology and Electrical Systems Technology. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify. Programs vary by campus.
Programs:
- Automotive Technology
- Collision Repair and Refinishing
- Diesel Technology
At UEI College, we want you to succeed. We’re like a family and we want you to be a part of it. From the moment you enter ourschool, to graduation and beyond, we are right there with you.
Programs:
- Automotive Technician (11-Month Diploma Program)
- Dental Assisting
- Medical Administrative Assisting Technology
- Medical Assisting
- Professional Massage Therapy
- Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration
- Automotive Service Technician
- Combination Welding
- Diesel Heavy Truck
Programs:
- Automotive Service Technician - Diploma
- Diesel Heavy Truck
Our mission is YOUR SUCCESS!
When you succeed, we succeed. That is why we provide high-quality, specialized career preparation for all our students. Our goal is to help you find your rewarding career.
Our Mission Statement:
To provide high-quality, specialized career preparation or enhancement to meet and cope with technological changes resulting in employment and career success.
Programs:
- Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Diploma
Fortis Institute can give you the skills you need to train for a career in the healthcare field.
* Programs vary by location
* Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information
Programs:
- Advanced Tractor Trailer Driving
PUT YOUR CAREER IN GEAR
If you enjoy working with your hands and are looking for a rewarding career, contact Advanced Technology Institute, located in Virginia Beach, VA!
ATI offers NATEF/ASE Master Certified Automotive Technology programs, is approved for Veterans, and is licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia. Financial Assistance is available for those who qualify and graduate employment services are also offered.
Programs:
- Automotive Technology - Diploma
- Diesel/Heavy Vehicle Technology w/ Service Management - Associate's
- Diesel/Heavy Vehicle Technology - Diploma
Programs:
- Class B CDL Driver Training
- Class B CDL Driving Programs
- Class A CDL Prepatory
- And more...
Advance your career at Dawn Career Institute. Gain the specialized knowledge and skills to help prepare you for a new career quickly and conveniently.
Programs:
- Class A CDL Driving
New England Tractor Trailer Training School has more than a 50-year history of delivering hands-on driver training to qualified candidates.
NETTTS has the staff, equipment and ability to provide hands-on professional tractor trailer training and to assist people who are seeking to secure their future in transportation industry as well as those who want to upgrade their driving skills.
Programs:
- Heavy Straight Truck Driving
- Commercial Drivers License
Aviation Institute of Maintenance schools are distinguished institutes committed to the education and personal enrichment of each student interested in the Aviation Industry. Students can succeed in our collegiate environment when properly motivated and taught to set goals in furthering their education. All aspects of our mechanic school are enriched with creating an atmosphere conducive to learning, while instilling a high degree of business ethics and professionalism.
Programs:
- Building Maintenance and Repair Diploma
- Auto Technician Diploma
- Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Diploma