Outdoor Power Equipment Technician

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

• 2006 NOC: Other Small Engine and Equipment Mechanics (7335) 
• 2006 NOC-S: Other Small Engine and Equipment Mechanics (H435) 
• 2011 NOC: Other small engine and small equipment repairers (7335) 

In general, outdoor power equipment technicians:

• review and interpret work orders and technical manuals
• inspect engines, motors and other mechanical components and use test devices to diagnose and isolate faults
• adjust, repair or replace mechanical or electrical system parts and components using hand tools and equipment
• test and adjust repaired equipment for proper performance
• perform scheduled maintenance service on equipment
• advise customers on work performed and general condition of equipment
• estimate repair costs.

In Alberta, the outdoor power equipment technician trade is divided into two branches:

• Power equipment technicians repair, service and maintain small gasoline and diesel powered equipment such as generators, mowers, aerators, golf carts, chain saws and various types of construction equipment.
• Recreational equipment technicians repair, service and maintain small gasoline and diesel powered equipment such as snowmobiles, recreational multi-wheeled utility vehicles, outboard motors, jet drives in boats and personal watercraft.

Working conditions vary:

• Power equipment technicians may work indoors in shops or they may travel to make service calls. Hours of work vary from regular hours to long and hectic hours during busy seasons.
• Recreational equipment technicians usually work indoors in shops and occasionally outdoors. Most work a 40 hour, five day week. However, some evening, weekend or holiday work may be required particularly during the busier months. 

Outdoor power equipment technicians may be required to lift and move items that weigh up to about 65 kilograms. The work often is dirty and greasy, and noisy when engines are being tested. There is some risk of injury when working with hand and power tools, or with hot engines and sharp edges. Ventilation systems reduce the risk involved in working indoors near exhaust fumes.

Outdoor power equipment technicians need the following characteristics:

• mechanical ability and an interest in all types of machinery and engines, electronics and precision equipment
• basic computer skills
• customer relations skills
• a willingness to work long hours in the busy season
• the ability to work alone or as part of a team
• the ability to think logically and keep up to date with changes in technology
• the ability to work in a standing position for long periods of time
• the ability to work in awkward, tight or confined spaces.

They should enjoy doing precise work, solving problems and working with their hands.

Outdoor power equipment technicians are employed by private and public sector employers in a number of different industries. For example, they may be employed by equipment distributors, retailers, rental companies, construction companies, landscaping companies, golf courses, parks and recreation departments, forestry companies or equipment manufacturers.

Experienced technicians may move into supervisory or service manager positions, be self-employed or start their own businesses. Alberta certified journeyperson outdoor power equipment technicians who have the supervisory or management skills required by industry may apply for an Achievement in Business Competencies Blue Seal by contacting Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training.

Outdoor power equipment technicians are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 7335: Other Small Engine and Equipment Mechanics. In Alberta, 76% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Other Services (PDF)
• Finance, Insurance, Real Estate and Leasing (PDF)
• Information, Culture and Recreation (PDF)
• Manufacturing (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• time of year (see above)
• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training website: tradesecrets.alberta.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you.