Heavy Equipment Mechanics
Wages & Outlook
Wages
Wages and benefits vary by employer. Full-time mechanics may receive benefits such as sick leave, vacation pay, and health insurance.
View the Regional Wage Comparison Chart for:
Employment
In Minnesota, about 3.405 heavy equipment mechanics work in this medium-sized occupation.
About 25 percent of heavy equipment mechanics work for heavy equipment dealers.
Major employers:
- Heavy equipment dealers
- Federal, state, and local government agencies
- Highway, street, and bridge construction companies
Outlook
Equipment rental and leasing companies are expected to have the greatest need for mechanics. Growth is also expected with heavy equipment dealers. Opportunities will be best for those with formal training in diesel or heavy equipment mechanics.
Demand for heavy equipment mechanics follows the economic cycle. As the economy expands, construction increases and more mechanics are needed. As the economy slows down, construction decreases and heavy equipment may sit idle. In addition, winter is generally a slow season for construction, especially in cold climates.
| Employment | Employment Change | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 2020 | Number | Percent | |
| U S | 124,600 | 144,800 | 20,200 | 16.2% |
| Minnesota | 2,845 | 3,259 | 414 | 14.6% |
| 2010 | 2020 | Number | Percent | |
| Central Minnesota | 277 | 362 | 85 | 30.7% |
| Northeast Minnesota | 611 | 688 | 77 | 12.6% |
| Northwest Minnesota | 261 | 324 | 63 | 24.1% |
| Southeast Minnesota | 151 | 173 | 22 | 14.6% |
| Southwest Minnesota | 218 | 238 | 20 | 9.2% |
| Seven County Mpls-St Paul, MN | 1,305 | 1,465 | 160 | 12.3% |
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and Minnesota Department of Education.
