Farm Equipment Mechanic
A Farm Equipment Mechanic, also known as an agricultural mechanic, specializes in the maintenance, repair, and functioning of machinery used in agricultural settings, including farms, nurseries, ranches, and greenhouses. This profession requires a strong knowledge of mechanical systems, problem-solving abilities, and physical stamina, as mechanics often perform demanding tasks such as diagnosing issues, servicing equipment, and working with various machinery like tractors and irrigation systems. Employment opportunities in this field are growing at a rate of 6%, indicating a favorable job outlook.
Typically, farm equipment mechanics start with a high school diploma, followed by extensive on-the-job training or postsecondary education in mechanics, agriculture, or related fields. They may work independently or for equipment manufacturers and dealers, often in workshops or on-site at farms. The role demands not only technical skills but also adaptability to advancing farming technologies. Safety is a key concern due to the physical nature of the work and potential hazards associated with machinery. Overall, this role is crucial in supporting agricultural productivity and efficiency.
Farm Equipment Mechanic
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Manufacturing
Interests: Agriculture, mechanics, physical labor, solving problems
Earnings (Yearly Average): $61,000 per year $29.33 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 6% (Faster than average)
Entry-Level Education High school diploma or equivalent
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training Long-term on-the-job training
Overview
Sphere of Work. Farm equipment mechanics, also referred to as agricultural mechanics and agricultural technicians, are responsible for the proper functioning of farm machinery, equipment, and vehicles used at farms, nurseries, ranches, slaughterhouses, and greenhouses. Farm equipment mechanics need specialized mechanical knowledge and experience to assess, repair, maintain, and, in some instances, fabricate or rebuild farm machinery.
Work Environment. Farms, nurseries, ranches, slaughterhouses, and greenhouses employ farm equipment mechanics. Others work independently or for manufacturers and retail dealers. Farm equipment mechanics may have a dedicated mechanic repair shop or may exclusively service and repair equipment on-site in barns or equipment sheds. Farm equipment mechanics tend to be busier during planting and harvesting times when farm machinery is in near constant use.
Occupation Interest. Farm equipment mechanics tend to be physically strong and intelligent individuals who possess strong problem-solving skills, physical stamina, ingenuity, and resourcefulness. They must be precise and able to understand and follow instruction manuals, mechanical blueprints, and circuit diagrams. Familiarity with computer technologies is advantageous. Farm equipment mechanics should enjoy physical labor and have a background in both agriculture and mechanics.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. The daily occupational duties and responsibilities of farm equipment mechanics vary by employer and specialty area. Farm equipment mechanics diagnose, repair, and maintain machinery, vehicles, equipment, wiring, and plumbing used for producing crops, beef, poultry, pork, dairy, or aquaculture. They may also install systems or system components, assemble parts, and clean and lubricate equipment. In shops with a large staff, farm equipment mechanics may specialize in one type of repair or assembly or in specific machines. For example, some mechanics focus on hydraulics or transmissions, while others only service tractors.
Farm equipment mechanics who support crop farm production work primarily with tractors, planting machines, harvesting machines, hay balers, irrigation systems, pesticide sprayers, and trucks used to transport crops to market. Those supporting meat production troubleshoot and service feeding systems, trucks, slaughtering technology, scales, and vehicles used to transport livestock. Farm equipment mechanics also maintain egg hatcheries, lighting and heating systems in poultry production facilities, and piglet warming systems for pork producers, as well as the milking machinery, refrigeration, and storage areas in dairy operations. Aquaculture producers rely on farm equipment mechanics to examine, fix, and service the floating net systems and the temperature systems and filters on stocking ponds.
All farm equipment mechanics are responsible for documenting all repairs and associated costs. Self-employed farm equipment mechanics have additional administrative and business responsibilities.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Farm equipment mechanics work in mechanic workshops or in barns or equipment sheds on farms, nurseries, ranches, slaughterhouses, and greenhouses. The temperatures, lighting, and cleanliness of the work environment can differ greatly between establishments.
Farm equipment repair and maintenance tend to be very physical and require hard labor, walking, lifting, and bending. Farm equipment mechanics must follow safety precautions to guard against back strain, crush injuries, cuts and burns, chemical exposure, and machine accidents.
Human Environment. A farm equipment mechanic’s human interaction is limited to farmers, farm managers, and farmworkers at farms, nurseries, ranches, slaughterhouses, and greenhouses. Those who work in shops for manufacturers or dealers may also interact with supervisors, equipment representatives, and trainees.
Technological Environment. Farm equipment mechanics use computerized diagnostic tools, hand tools, soldering equipment, saws, and welding tools to repair, maintain, diagnose, and rebuild farm equipment and machinery. Depending on the work environment, they may work on animal feeders, hay balers, mowers, plows, fertilizing equipment, pesticide sprayers, trucks, irrigation systems, tractors, chain saws, loading machines, conveyor belts, and milking machines. Farm equipment mechanics must also operate trucks to tow inoperable farm equipment and vehicles and to transport materials. Farming technology continues to advance, so farm equipment mechanics must stay aware of new technologies and adapt their practices. If a farm equipment mechanic is a small business owner, they must be familiar with the appropriate business software.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students interested in pursuing a career as a farm equipment mechanic should prepare themselves by building good study habits. High school-level study of mechanics, mathematics, physics, chemistry, communications, metalworking, agricultural science, technical drafting, and technology can provide a strong foundation for work as a farm equipment mechanic. High school students interested in this career path will benefit from seeking internships or part-time work with local mechanics and farms.
Postsecondary. Aspiring farm equipment mechanics should earn an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in mechanics, agriculture, or farm management. Vocational schools also provide formal postsecondary training for farm equipment mechanics. Program participants study such subjects as diagnostic methods, diesel and gas mechanics, hydraulics, electronics, mathematics, engine repair, welding, and refrigeration. Coursework in business may also prove useful for those who intend to become self-employed or set up their own company. Postsecondary students can gain work experience and potential advantage in their future job searches by securing internships or part-time employment with local mechanics and farms.
Related Occupations
− Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic and Technician
− Automotive Service Technician and Mechanic
− Diesel Service Technician and Mechanic
Bibliography
"Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Service Technicians." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heavy-vehicle-and-mobile-equipment-service-technicians.htm. Accessed 26 Aug. 2024.