Explore Careers
Automotive and Heavy Equipment Mechanics
Explore Careers
Automotive and Heavy Equipment Mechanics
Transportation, Distribution & LogisticsWhat do Automotive and Heavy Equipment Mechanics do in the Military?
Where do Automotive and Heavy Equipment Mechanics work?
Automotive and heavy equipment mechanics usually work inside large repair garages. They work outdoors when making emergency repairs in the field.
How much do they make?
Median Military Salary
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$69,682
Military Salary Range
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$22,971 - $331,665
How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Set based on rank and years of service.
- Paid every month.
Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.
- Tax-free payments.
- Varies by location and family status.
Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.
- Based on specialized roles.
- Varies by position and duty.
What training do Automotive and Heavy Equipment Mechanics gain in the Military?
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Job training for automotive and heavy equipment mechanics consists of classroom and hands-on training, including work on vehicles and equipment. Training content varies depending on specialty, and may include:
- Repairing mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, fuel, and armament systems
- Repairing and replacing body panels, fenders, and radiators
- Engine repair and tune-up or replacement
- Electronic and mechanical principles and concepts
- Use of electronic, electrical and mechanical test equipment
- Shop operations, such as inventory control
- Use and care of hand and power tools
- Use of automated information systems
Military Training for Officers
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree. All officers complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.
What skills help Automotive and Heavy Equipment Mechanics succeed?
- Interest in automotive engines and how they work
- Interest in troubleshooting and repairing mechanical problems
- Preference for physical work









