Small engine mechanics held about 71,700 jobs in 2014. Many of these workers—about 33 percent—were employed by other motor vehicle dealers, including motorcycle, boat, and other motor vehicle dealers. About 13 percent worked in lawn and garden equipment and supplies stores, and another 10 percent worked in personal and household goods repair and maintenance. About 1 in 10 were self-employed.
Small engine mechanics generally work in well-ventilated but noisy repair shops. They sometimes make onsite repair calls, which may require working in poor weather conditions. When repairing onboard engines, motorboat mechanics may work in cramped and uncomfortable positions.
Work Schedules
Most small engine mechanics work full time, although seasonal work hours often fluctuate.
Most mechanics are busiest during the spring and summer, when demand for work on equipment from lawnmowers to motorboats is the highest. During the peak seasons, some mechanics work many overtime hours. In contrast, some may only work part time during the winter, when demand for small engine work is lowest.
Many employers try to keep work more consistent by scheduling major repair work, such as engine rebuilds, during the off-season.