Explore Careers

Heavy Equipment Mechanics

Explore Careers

Heavy Equipment Mechanics

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
Enlisted Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Marines logo
  • Navy logo

What do Heavy Equipment Mechanics do in the Military?

Heavy equipment mechanics specialize in the maintenance and repair of heavy equipment, such as tanks and other combat vehicles.

Where do Heavy Equipment Mechanics work?

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.

$69,195

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.

$22,971 - $265,410

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 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 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

Military Training for Enlisted Service members

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.

What skills help Heavy Equipment Mechanics succeed?

  • Interest in automotive engines and how they work
  • Interest in troubleshooting and repairing mechanical problems
  • Preference for physical work

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Maintenance Workers, Machinery
  • Industrial Machinery Mechanics
  • Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
  • Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
  • Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians
  • Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
  • Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
  • Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians

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