Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul farm machinery and vehicles, such as tractors, harvesters, dairy equipment, and irrigation systems.
Common Job Titles
- Farm Equipment Mechanic
- Mechanic
- Service Technician
- Tractor Mechanic
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform repairs and overhauls on farm machinery, tractors, harvesters, and irrigation systems in field and shop settings, using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze mechanical and electronic system malfunctions using diagnostic scan units, digital multimeters, and compression testers to identify root causes.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate equipment performance and wear patterns through systematic inspection and testing to determine maintenance priorities and repair strategies.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess repair costs, parts availability, and turnaround time to provide accurate service estimates and prioritize workflow during peak agricultural seasons.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate welding equipment including MIG, TIG, and oxyacetylene systems to fabricate, modify, and repair metal components on agricultural equipment.Developing
- Hands-onExecute preventive maintenance procedures on hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical systems following manufacturer specifications and safety protocols.Developing
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of mechanical systems, computers, electronics, and physics to diagnose complex equipment failures involving integrated control systems.Developing
- MindsetEngage with farmers and equipment operators to understand operational issues, explain repair recommendations, and provide technical guidance.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, and dial indicators to verify tolerances and ensure quality standards during equipment assembly and adjustment.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret technical manuals, wiring diagrams, and hydraulic schematics to guide disassembly, repair, and reassembly procedures on diverse farm equipment models.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
36,880
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $36,920. 25th percentile: U.S. $45,660. 50th percentile: U.S. $52,080. 75th percentile: U.S. $63,070. 90th percentile: U.S. $76,860. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $36,920 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $76,860 |
| Workers on average earn | $55,290 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical4.7/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.4/5
- Computers and Electronics3.4/5
- English Language3.3/5
- Mathematics3.2/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- FarmLogic FarmPAD
- ServiceMax
- Web browser software
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable end wrenches
- Air wrenches
- Angle grinders
- Arc welders
- Automated lathes
- Automatic center punches
- Aviation snips
- Bearing pullers