Heavy Duty Mechanic

Build

It is the neglect of timely repair that makes rebuilding necessary.

Richard Whately
Heavy Duty Mechanic

In A Nutshell

I repair large machines used throughout agriculture, including tractors, harvesters, irrigation equipment, and machinery in processing plants to keep operations running smoothly.

I take engines and machine parts apart, clean and fix them, then carefully put everything back together to ensure they work properly.

I diagnose problems by inspecting machines, document what is wrong, check surrounding parts, and make the necessary repairs to prevent future breakdowns.

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Potential Salary Range

$46,000 - $96,000 Annually

Which provinces would this job be in?

Alberta AB
Alberta
British Columbia BC
British Columbia
Manitoba MB
Manitoba
New Brunswick NB
New Brunswick
Newfoundland & Labrador NL
Newfoundland & Labrador
Nova Scotia NS
Nova Scotia
Nunavut NU
Nunavut
Northwest Territories NWT
Northwest Territories
Ontario ON
Ontario
Prince Edward Island PEI
Prince Edward Island
Quebec QC
Quebec
Saskwatchewan SK
Saskwatchewan
Yukon Territories YT
Yukon Territories

I work both in the shop fixing smaller machines and out on job sites repairing large equipment that can’t be moved. Both places are busy and loud, full of tools and engines. It’s hands-on, fast-paced work that keeps agriculture running smoothly.

Workplace

Indoor / Outdoor

Job Requirements & Duties

  • Troubleshoot and identify problems in a variety of agricultural machinery and equipment
  • Repair or replace broken parts to keep machines working efficiently
  • Use computerized diagnostic tools to read error codes and pinpoint issues
  • Test vehicles and equipment after repairs to make sure they operate properly
  • Clean, maintain, and perform routine checks on machinery to prevent breakdowns
  • Understand engines, fuel systems, hydraulics, and electrical systems in many types of agricultural machinery
  • Follow safety procedures and work with teams to complete repairs and keep work sites safe

Education & Training

  • A high school diploma, a technical college diploma, or a full journeyman trade certification is required. Those with journeyman certification can complete the Red Seal exam to become nationally recognized and work anywhere in Canada.
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Job Outlook

    Skilled and certified workers are in high demand, creating many job opportunities in the field as employers look for qualified people to fill important roles.

Related School Subjects

Ed. Prof. et Tech.
Career Education

What words come to mind when thinking about this career?

Engine Vehicles Communication Parts

Important Skills

Physical

I do a lot of physical work lifting heavy tools and parts and working with big machinery every day.

Mechanical

I spend most of my time working with equipment and machines, so I enjoy mechanics and feel comfortable around all kinds of agricultural machinery.

Analytical Thinking

When a machine breaks down, I use my analytical thinking to carefully figure out what is wrong by working step by step.

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Problem Solving

Once I know the problem, I come up with creative and cost-effective solutions to fix the equipment and keep agriculture running smoothly.

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The Best Things About This Job Are…

Pays Well
Helps Others
Independent Work
Work Changes Daily
Problem Solving