How to become an outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanic

Q: How do I become an outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanic?

The typical entry-level education is usually requires a high school diploma or ged, though some occupations may not..

Q: How much does an outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanic make?

The median pay in the United States is $47,880 a year (BLS OEWS May 2025).

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul small engines used to power lawn mowers, chain saws, recreational sporting equipment, and related equipment.

Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.Typical entry-level education

$47,880Median pay a year

Steps to get there

Most employers expect usually requires a high school diploma or ged, though some occupations may not..Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.

What outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanics do

Test and inspect engines to determine malfunctions, to locate missing and broken parts, and to verify repairs, using diagnostic instruments.
Repair and maintain gasoline engines used to power equipment such as portable saws, lawn mowers, generators, and compressors.
Adjust points, valves, carburetors, distributors, and spark plug gaps, using feeler gauges.
Repair or replace defective parts such as magnetos, water pumps, gears, pistons, and carburetors, using hand tools.
Perform routine maintenance such as cleaning and oiling parts, honing cylinders, and tuning ignition systems.
Reassemble engines after repair or maintenance work is complete.

Skills that matter most

Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Reading Comprehension
Speaking
Monitoring
Active Learning
Writing
Learning Strategies

Is outdoor power equipment and other small engine mechanic a good career?

On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 6% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

Alaska $60,190
Hawaii $58,110
Massachusetts $57,830
New Hampshire $57,610
Nevada $56,750

Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.