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Farmers use a lot of different equipment on a regular basis, from vehicles that help with harvesting to instruments used for irrigation. All of these tools are necessary and need to be kept in good condition so tasks around the farm can be completed on time.
For those who love transportation, mechanics and agriculture, getting into ag mechanics as a career just makes sense. An agricultural, or farm, mechanic is someone who will help maintain and repair the different kinds of equipment used in these industries. They provide necessary service that impacts the livelihoods of many people.
Training and experience working on different kinds of farming equipment is something important for those interested in pursuing a career in the industry. Those who love problem solving and working with their hands would be great fits.
If the role of an agricultural mechanic sounds intriguing to you, keep reading to find out more about what their responsibilities are and how you can take steps to become one!
Having general knowledge of what an agricultural mechanic’s duties and responsibilities are can be helpful when considering it as a career. Farm equipment is used in a range of spaces, making these technicians necessary for different kinds of jobs.
Repairing and maintaining various farming components is the main job of an agricultural mechanic. Some of their daily duties and tasks can include:
These are just a few of the tasks that an agricultural mechanic might handle during a day of work, though their specific duties can vary depending on the equipment they’re working on.
Getting a sense of what the job outlook and salary range is for a career you’re thinking about pursuing is smart so you can prepare for your future.
Many people who enter the agricultural mechanics field start as entry-level automotive service technicians, mechanics or diesel technicians. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides useful information regarding the outlook and salary of these positions to give you an estimate.
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $42,090 in May 2019.25 This means half of automotive technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including employer, demand and cost of living in the area.
Diesel engines provide power to many of the vehicles used in agricultural work. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $48,500 in May 2019.29
Education and training are important for those wanting to pursue a career as a farm equipment mechanic. Having the knowledge and hands-on experience related to the different kinds of systems and instruments used in the industry is crucial before diving into the role.
Basic education in the form of a high school diploma or GED is required. Different certifications and trainings might be required depending on the specific sector of the industry.
Attending a trade school can be the best way to gain the experience needed to be ready to enter the workforce as an agricultural mechanic. Trade schools can build a foundation of knowledge and skills that will come in handy in the transportation and agricultural industry.
For example, the Diesel Technology program at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) will expose students to foundational courses designed to allow them to repair, replace, and diagnose issues with diesel technology and engines. Those graduating from the program would be prepared with the knowledge needed to fix combines, tractors, and a range of other equipment used in the farming industry.1 They can work in field service and travel from place to place, or might get employed by larger machinery wholesalers.
Having the foundational knowledge from a trade school under your belt can give you confidence once you enter the workforce. You can even choose to enroll in specialized training once you complete a core program to expand your experience. Whatever path you take, you will be prepared with the skills needed for a rewarding career as an agricultural mechanic.6
If pursuing a career as an agricultural mechanic sounds like the right fit for you, you can take the first step by getting hands-on training at a trade school. You can apply to the Diesel Technology program at UTI to get started and build a foundational knowledge.
You can graduate the program in just 45 weeks prepared for an entry-level job in the workforce. To find out more about the program, you can request more information here or explore our website.
While times might seem uncertain, the demand for diesel techs remains. Here's the inspiring story of UTI diesel grad Nestor Martinez.
Want to become a diesel technician? Click here to find information on diesel mechanic salaries and how they vary by state.
Junior Alvarez graduated from UTI Avondale's Diesel Technology program. He works as a Caterpillar field service tech by day. And he's an entrepreneur by night.
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