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Service Branches
Work Environment
Heavy equipment mechanics usually work inside large repair garages. They work outdoors when making emergency repairs in the field.
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Military Status
Enlisted
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Average Military Salary
$55,385
Overview
Heavy equipment mechanics specialize in the maintenance and repair of heavy equipment, such as tanks and other combat vehicles. They maintain and repair construction equipment including that used for earthmoving, grading and compaction, lifting and loading, quarrying and rock crushing, asphalt/concrete mixing and surfacing, and water pumping, as well as special purpose equipment, including power generation equipment and air conditioning/refrigeration systems. They also supervise and perform diagnostic troubleshooting to determine maintenance repair criteria.
Military Training
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 heavy equipment mechanics consists of classroom and hands-on training. Training content 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
Helpful Attributes
- Interest in automotive engines and how they work
- Interest in troubleshooting and repairing mechanical problems
- Preference for physical work
Related Civilian Careers
- Helpers--Installation, Maintenance and Repair Workers
- Riggers
- Boilermakers
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics
- Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
- Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
- Maintenance Workers, Machinery
- Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
- Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
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