4 Tips for Landing a Job as a Heavy Equipment Mechanic

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Are you interested in the construction field and looking for a career that offers excellent opportunities and support? Consider becoming a heavy equipment mechanic. With a median pay of over $58,000 a year and an expected growth rate of 6% from 2022 to 2032, it is a rewarding profession that offers many benefits and ways to grow.

If you are wondering why you should become a Cat® equipment mechanic, we created this guide to help you learn more about the advantages of this job and how you can start your journey.

What Is a Heavy Equipment Mechanic?

Heavy equipment mechanics are skilled professionals trained to maintain and repair heavy equipment used in major industries. They undergo training to learn about machines’ electrical, mechanical and hydraulic processes. Heavy equipment mechanics use their tools to work on cranes, bulldozers, loaders, excavators and more. They are essential for ensuring your heavy equipment works safely and effectively every day. 

What Does a Heavy Equipment Mechanic Do?

Heavy equipment mechanics take care of all the maintenance, inspection and repair for heavy equipment. They inspect and follow maintenance schedules for an array of equipment, ensuring everything is working properly.

Heavy equipment mechanics use training, diagnostic equipment and specialized tools to make sure all equipment is in working order. If there is a problem with a piece of machinery, they diagnose it and work to resolve the underlying issue so the machine can get back into service.

Overall, heavy equipment mechanics are critical to keeping machinery operational and productive.

Top Tips for Becoming a Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Once you know you want to be a heavy equipment mechanic, you will need some training. Heavy equipment mechanics must have a solid education before working — this knowledge helps them build foundational skills for the job. After you get your essential qualifications, you can begin applying for positions.

heavy equipment mechanic

Check out these tips to help you get the heavy equipment mechanic job you have always wanted.

1. Get the Right Training

If you want a job as a heavy equipment mechanic, you need the right qualifications. You need a high school diploma or and a technical education from a post-secondary school. Once you have completed the program, you will have the foundation needed to start your career.

2. Obtain Your Certifications

You might also want to obtain some certifications in the industry. Certifications show your mastery over industry- and manufacturer-specific knowledge areas. Getting certifications helps advance your skills and improve your mechanical abilities, making you a more qualified employee. Having more qualifications means you can advance your career and carve out your place in the industry.

3. Craft a Strong Resume

A strong resume and networking help get your foot in the door for any job, including a heavy machinery mechanic position.

You want to create a resume showing your relevant skills and certifications. Have your resume formatted to show all your relevant work experience, as well — employers like knowing that you have already had hands-on experience with heavy equipment.

Additionally, make sure to network to create more paths for employment. Ask former instructors, advisors, classmates and other relevant individuals about potential job opportunities to see what is out there. Consulting online job boards is still a smart approach, but you can find out about even more positions when you make use of your professional network.

4. Prepare Well for Interviews

Like any job, preparing for a heavy equipment mechanic interview is essential. You need to be ready to talk about your experience and skills during the interview. Have your qualifications ready to discuss and practice potential interview questions. The more prepared and practiced you are, the better your odds of making a lasting positive impression.

Make sure to show off your experience and problem-solving skills when you get the chance. Working with heavy machinery means time is critical — essential machines need repairing so they can get back to work, safely reducing downtime. Demonstrate your ability to diagnose issues and establish effective repair solutions quickly. Employers want mechanics who can find the solution quickly and safely, protecting the equipment and operators during the workday.

Caterpillar dealer

Why Become a Cat® Dealer Mechanic?

Caterpillar is a world-renowned brand that prides itself on quality and service. Becoming a Cat dealer mechanic offers you the chance to advance your career and work with the latest advancements in heavy equipment

If you are passionate about heavy equipment and want to work with some of the most well-known machines in the world, being a Cat dealer mechanic might be perfect for you. When you become a Cat dealer mechanic, you can enjoy these benefits:

  1. Innovative equipment: Caterpillar is a leader in heavy equipment. Working as a Cat dealer opens you up to a new world of innovative technology and advancements. You will get to work with a wide range of equipment, giving you invaluable experience. As a Cat dealer mechanic, you will expand your skills and experience, taking your career to new heights. 
  2. Ongoing support: Caterpillar prioritizes growth and education for their teams. Cat dealer mechanics have access to a wide variety of training programs and certification opportunities. You will get the very best in heavy equipment repair and care, keeping you updated on the latest innovations for a wider skill set.
  3. Continued growth: Working with Caterpillar means unlimited opportunities to advance your career. From equipment specialization to sales or supervisory roles, you can do it all. Working as a Cat dealer mechanic opens the door for you to try out different career paths and work in your dream role.
  4. Excellent benefits: Car dealer mechanics earn competitive wages and enjoy great benefits like health insurance, retirement plans and sign-on bonuses.

Apply to Join Foley, Incorporated’s Technician Team

Looking to further your career as a heavy equipment mechanic? Join Foley, Incorporated’s team of experts. With over 60 years of experience, our family-owned business has worked to become a trusted leader in the industry. When you become a Foley, Incorporated technician, you join a team that dedicates itself to customer service and care. From construction equipment offerings to power systems and more, Foley, Incorporated. is dedicated to helping your operation stay safe and productive.

As a technician at Foley, Incorporated., you will get to work with cutting-edge Cat equipment while advancing your career through training and development programs. Whatever your area of interest, we are here to help you grow. Explore our career opportunities and receive up to a $10,000 sign-on bonus when you become a Foley, Incorporated. technician.

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