Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul farm machinery and vehicles, such as tractors, harvesters, dairy equipment, and irrigation systems.
SOC: 49-3041.00
Common Job Titles
Farm Equipment Mechanic
Mechanic
Service Technician
Tractor Mechanic
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key 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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
