How to Be Small Engine Repair Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 8, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Small engine repair technicians are responsible for maintaining and restoring small engines in a wide range of applications such as lawn mowers, motorcycles, and snow blowers. Proper maintenance and repair of these engines is essential to ensure they operate efficiently and safely. A lack of knowledge or experience in this field can cause serious engine damage, leading to costly repairs or replacement.

To prevent such problems, small engine repair technicians use their expertise to identify and diagnose any mechanical issues, then make the necessary repairs accordingly. They also provide preventative maintenance services to extend the life of the engine and help ensure it runs properly. With the right training, education, and experience, small engine repair technicians can help keep engines running smoothly and efficiently.

Steps How to Become

Research the job requirements. To become a small engine repair technician, you should have a basic understanding of the inner workings of small engines and experience with hand and power tools. You should also have excellent problem-solving, communication, and customer service skills.
Get certified. Many employers prefer to hire technicians with a certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Certification requires passing a series of exams and a minimum of two years of experience.
Get specialized training. Some employers may require specialized training from manufacturers or technical schools. You could take classes in diesel engines, electrical systems, or fuel injection systems.
Obtain a valid drivers license. Most technicians need to be able to drive to customers homes or businesses to repair small engines.
Find an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are a great way to get hands-on experience and learn the trade from seasoned professionals. Look for apprenticeships with local businesses or organizations.
Get licensed and insured. Depending on the state youre in, you may need to obtain a license and insurance to practice your trade. Contact your states licensing agency for more information.
Begin work. Once youve completed your training and obtained all of the necessary certifications, licenses, and insurance, you can begin working as a small engine repair technician.

The best way for a small engine repair technician to stay ahead and capable is to keep up with the latest advances in technology and techniques. This means investing in continuing education, attending seminars and workshops, reading industry publications, and staying current with industry trends and developments. Keeping abreast of the latest technologies, tools, and techniques allows technicians to be better informed and better prepared to tackle any repair job that comes their way.

it helps them to identify and troubleshoot problems more quickly and effectively, leading to more efficient repairs and improved customer satisfaction. Furthermore, staying informed allows technicians to diagnose problems correctly the first time and minimize the amount of time spent on a repair job, which in turn can lead to greater profitability for the business. by staying informed and investing in continuing education, small engine repair technicians can stay ahead of the curve and remain capable of providing the highest quality service.

You may want to check Repair Technician III, Fleet Maintenance and Repair Technician, and Repair Mechanic for alternative.

Job Description

Diagnose and repair small engine problems, including faulty ignition systems, carburetors, fuel systems, and exhaust systems.
Troubleshoot and test components to diagnose the cause of malfunction.
Perform preventive maintenance on small engines such as oil changes and tune-ups.
Rebuild and replace worn or damaged parts such as spark plugs, pistons, rings, valves, gaskets, and seals.
Check and adjust engine timing and fuel/air mixture settings.
Clean and lubricate engine parts or components.
Install and adjust small engine parts or accessories such as air filters, starters, governors, and carburetors.
Provide customers with advice on how to best maintain their small engines.
Keep records of work performed and parts used.
Ensure that all safety procedures are followed while working on small engines.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of small engine mechanics and operation
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose problems
Ability to use hand and power tools
Knowledge of safety standards and procedures
Ability to read and interpret technical manuals
Ability to work with a variety of small engine parts
Knowledge of lubrication, fuel, and spark systems
Ability to reassemble engines after repair
Knowledge of electrical systems and components
Ability to adjust and tune engines for optimal performance

Being a successful small engine repair technician requires a variety of skills and knowledge. One of the most important skills to have is a strong understanding of the various components and systems of small engines. Knowing how each part works, how to identify problems and how to fix them is essential.

strong troubleshooting skills are necessary to quickly diagnose complex issues. Having a good understanding of the different types of tools and supplies used to repair small engines is also beneficial. Finally, having excellent customer service skills is critical to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.

These skills and knowledge will allow a small engine repair technician to provide quality repairs and maintain customer loyalty.

Farm Equipment Repair Technician, Appliance Repair Technician, and Aircraft Repair Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with small engines?
What techniques do you use to diagnose and repair small engine issues?
How do you stay up to date on the latest technology in small engine repair?
What safety procedures do you follow when repairing small engines?
What challenges have you faced when repairing small engines?
Describe how you troubleshoot and problem solve when working with small engines.
What resources do you use to diagnose and repair small engine issues?
How do you handle customer complaints regarding small engine repairs?
How do you organize and prioritize your work when dealing with multiple small engine repair jobs?
What type of maintenance do you perform on small engine systems?

Common Tools in Industry

Wrenches. Used to tighten or loosen nuts, bolts, and other hardware. (Eg: Crescent Wrench)
Screwdrivers. Used to drive screws and other fasteners. (Eg: Phillips Screwdriver)
Pliers. Used to hold, twist and turn objects. (Eg: Needle-Nose Pliers)
Socket Sets. Used to turn nuts and bolts. (Eg: Socket Set)
Ratchet Sets. Used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts. (Eg: Ratchet Set)
Hex Keys. Used to drive hexagonal screws and bolts. (Eg: Allen Wrench)
Hammer. Used to drive or remove nails and other fasteners. (Eg: Claw Hammer)
Voltage Tester. Used to test electrical circuits. (Eg: Digital Multimeter)
Wire Cutters. Used to cut wires and other small parts. (Eg: Diagonal Pliers)
Soldering Iron. Used to join two pieces of metal with a molten filler material. (Eg: Soldering Iron Kit)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Small Engine Repair Association (NSERA)
Small Engine Technology Conference (SETC)
Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI)
International Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
American Motorcyclist Association (AMA)
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
American Power Sports Association (APSA)
National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF)
American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC)

We also have HVAC Repair Technician, Fire and Water Damage Repair Technician, and Repair Inspector jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Carburetor. A device that combines fuel and air in the correct proportion for combustion in an internal combustion engine.
Ignition System. The system responsible for providing the spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in an internal combustion engine.
Spark Plug. A device that generates a spark to ignite the fuel-air mixture in an internal combustion engine.
Fuel Pump. A device responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the carburetor or fuel injection system.
Exhaust System. The system responsible for removing exhaust gases from an internal combustion engine.
Cooling System. The system responsible for keeping the engine temperature within safe limits.
Electrical System. The system responsible for supplying power to the components of an internal combustion engine.
Cylinder Head. The top part of the engine block that houses the valves and spark plugs.
Piston. The moving part of an internal combustion engine that moves up and down inside the cylinder to create power.
Valves. Components that control the flow of air and fuel into and out of the engine's cylinders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of skills are required to become a Small Engine Repair Technician?

To become a Small Engine Repair Technician, you need to have knowledge of repair and maintenance techniques, mechanical and electrical skills, troubleshooting experience, and customer service skills.

What type of tools are used by a Small Engine Repair Technician?

Small Engine Repair Technicians typically use hand tools, power tools, diagnostic tools, and specialized tools to diagnose and repair small engines.

What type of certification is required to be a Small Engine Repair Technician?

Small Engine Repair Technicians may be required to have certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

How many years of experience are required to become a Small Engine Repair Technician?

The amount of experience needed to become a Small Engine Repair Technician can vary depending on the training program and employer. Generally, at least 1 year of experience is needed.

What type of salary can a Small Engine Repair Technician expect to earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Small Engine Repair Technicians was $41,710 in 2019.

Web Resources

Small Engine Repair - East Mississippi Community College www.eastms.edu
Small Engine Repair Training for Your Workforce | Penn Foster partners.pennfoster.edu
Small Engine Mechanic - Training Certificate - Midlands Tech www.midlandstech.edu