Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines: 2025 Salary Guide & Career Outlook
If you're the person who keeps bulldozers, cranes, and excavators running on construction sites or mines, you're a Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic (minus engine work). The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national median salary of $65,510, with the typical range from $46,820 to $94,460. This article covers what you'll earn, where pay is highest, how to enter the trade, and the job outlook through 2034.
How much Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines earn
The median annual wage for Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines is $65,510 (mean $69,240, roughly $31 per hour). The bottom 10% earn less than $46,820, while the top 10% bring in over $94,460. Your actual pay depends on location, experience, industry (e.g., mining pays more than construction), and whether you're unionized. Overtime is common in this field because equipment breakdowns can't wait.
Pay by state
Top-paying states offer salaries well above the national median. In Alaska, the mean wage hits $82,670, followed by Nevada at $79,860, Minnesota at $79,370, Hawaii at $79,170, and Washington at $78,620. Note these are state-wide averages - within each state, metropolitan areas like Anchorage or Seattle often pay more than rural regions. On the lower end, Mississippi pays $58,180, Oklahoma $58,130, and West Virginia $56,810. Even in low-paying states, experience and certifications can push you higher.
How to become Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engine
Most entry-level mechanics learn on the job or through a formal apprenticeship. The typical path starts with a high school diploma or GED and then either a postsecondary certificate (often 1 year at a community college) or an apprenticeship (3-4 years). Courses cover hydraulics, electrical systems, diesel engines (though you won't specialize in engines), and computer diagnostics. Voluntary certifications from organizations like the Equipment & Engine Training Council or the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence can boost your earning potential and job candidacy. Many employers prefer candidates who already hold a CDL or have some welding skills.
- Earn high school diploma or GED (required for most programs).
- Complete a certificate program (1 year) or apprenticeship (3-4 years) in heavy equipment repair.
- Pass the OSHA 10-hour safety course (often required by employers).
- Consider earning ASE or EETC certifications after gaining experience.
- Get a commercial driver's license (CDL) if you'll be transporting equipment.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 5.8% employment growth from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations (4%). That translates to about 16,500 job openings each year, many from retirements. The constant need to maintain fleets of construction, mining, and agricultural equipment ensures steady demand. Mechanics who can work with GPS, telematics, and hybrid electric systems will have an edge. The occupation currently employs 176,600 workers, and growth is tied to infrastructure spending and resource extraction.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic (except engines) do?
You repair and maintain the non-engine parts of heavy equipment like bulldozers, cranes, graders, and excavators. That includes hydraulics, transmissions, brakes, electrical systems, and tracks. Engine repairs are handled by separate Diesel Engine Specialists.
How long does it take to become certified?
Apprenticeships last 3-4 years, but you can start working after a 1-year certificate program. Full certification (e.g., ASE) typically requires 2 years of on-the-job experience and passing exams.
Is this a dangerous job?
Yes, it involves heavy machinery, hazardous fluids, and confined spaces. Proper safety protocols and personal protective equipment (steel-toe boots, gloves, eye protection) are essential. OSHA reports injury rates higher than average.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines data.