How to become a Light Engine Mechanic
Light engine mechanics test, service and repair small engines and parts in boats and other small engine-powered equipment such as chainsaws, brush-cutters, lawnmowers, pumps and stationary engines.
Personal requirements for a Light Engine Mechanic
- Enjoy practical and manual activities
- Able to cope with the physical demands of the job
- Normal eyesight and hearing
- Aptitude for technical activities
- Problem-solving skills
- Able to read and interpret technical information from service manuals
- No skin allergies or reactions to grease, oil or petrol.
Education & Training for a Light Engine Mechanic
To become a light engine mechanic, you usually have to complete an apprenticeship or traineeship. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.
Additional information
Employees of franchised dealerships usually receive training in the service and repair of machines from their manufacturer.
Duties & Tasks of a Light Engine Mechanic
Light engine mechanics:
- Determine mechanical and electrical faults through discussion with users, listening to engines and using specialised testing equipment
- Dismantle faulty engine assemblies, check parts using precision measuring equipment and refer to workshop manuals
- Clean, lubricate and tune engines to ensure they run properly
- Repair damaged or faulty parts by straightening, welding, machining or hand-making new metal parts
- Repair and adjust electrical faults
- Remove small dents in panels, spray paint and do minor trim repairs
- Set up and water-test outboard motors.
Tasks
- Dismantles and removes engine assemblies, transmissions, steering mechanisms and other components, and checks parts.
- Detects and diagnoses faults in engines and parts.
- Repairs and replaces worn and defective parts and reassembles mechanical components, and refers to service manuals as needed.
- Reassembles engines and parts after being repaired.
- Performs scheduled maintenance services such as oil changes, lubrications and engine tune-ups to achieve smoother running of vehicles and ensure compliance with pollution regulations.
Employment Opportunities for a Light Engine Mechanic
Light engine mechanics are employed by outboard engine firms, chainsaw dealers and lawnmower repair firms. They may also run their own businesses. Career opportunities include field service, supervision, sales, management and teaching.
Specializations
Lawnmower Mechanic
A lawnmower mechanic diagnoses faults and performs necessary repairs on lawnmowers and related equipment.
Outboard Motor Mechanic
An outboard motor mechanic diagnoses faults and performs necessary repairs on boat engines.
Average age
43
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
2% female
Average full-time
41 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Medium skill
Unemployment
Lower unemployment
Full-Time Share
78%
Employment Size
1,800
Employment by state
ACT: 0.9%
NSW: 27.8%
NT: 2.0%
QLD: 29.4%
SA: 4.5%
TAS: 4.0%
VIC: 21.3%
WA: 10.0%
Age brackets
15-19: 9.3%
20-24: 11.1%
25-34: 18.6%
35-44: 17.2%
45-54: 22%
55-59: 10.1%
60-64: 7.1%
65 and Over: 4.5%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 3.2%
Bachelor degree: 1.5%
Certificate III/IV: 64%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 0.2%
Year 10 and below: 16.9%
Year 11: 5.4%
Year 12: 8.9%
