With more and more people buying motorboats, outboard motors, lawnmowers, and other power equipment, there is a constant need for qualified Small Engine Repair Technicians. Most employers prefer to hire technicians who graduate from formal training programs, and the market demands specialized job skills. ICS Canada’s Small Engine Repair Program provides the tools, the training, and the skills needed to succeed.

Nature of the Work
This occupational group includes workers who service and repair heating systems, electric appliances, electrical equipment and transformers, small engines, and motorcycles.

These mechanics are employed by electrical and other repair shops, appliance service companies, and repair departments of retail and wholesale establishments, motorcycle dealers, and companies that install and service heating systems.

Main Duties
Generally, Small Engine Repair Technicians test, maintain, service, and repair engines and motors, requiring reading and interpreting drawings, specifications, and shop manuals. Technicians consult with customers to determine problems, using a range of diagnostic tools and equipment. They prepare and work from estimates and write-up accounts. They must be able to explain to customers what has been done and what other maintenance may be needed.

Making repairs involves adjusting, repairing or replacing, mechanical or electrical system parts and components using hand tools as well as soldering and brazing equipment. Mechanics also test and adjust repaired systems for proper performance. Increasingly, these repair people use electronic diagnostic equipment and work with electronic components of products.

Employment Prospects
The Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) projects employment of workers in this field will grow about the same as the average for all occupations between 2001 and 2011. Openings will result from growth in the number of new jobs between 2001 and 2011 and because of an aging workforce.

The areas of retail trade, construction, and the services sector all expect
above-average growth. Other small engine repairers and heating mechanics are expected to see the most growth, because they work mainly in personal and household services, and in construction.

Because consumer and industrial products change so quickly, the best employment prospects will be for workers who have up-to-date skills in a variety of areas and who are comfortable with electronic components. With experience it is possible to move up to specialist and management positions. Experienced and qualified mechanics in these fields can also open and operate their own repair shops.

To learn more about a Small Engine Repair career and the program ICS Canada offers, click here.