ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Small Engine Mechanic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ace Hardware

SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC

Half Moon Bay, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Small Engine Mechanic $20-$23/Hour DOE 160 San Mateo Road, Unit E, Half Moon Bay CA 94019 The primary responsibilities of the small engine mechanic are to diagnose and repair small engines while ...

Stockton Ace Hardware Inc

Be Seen First

Small Engine Repair and Service

Stockton, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Training and advancement with STIHL outdoor power equipment We are currently seeking a highly motivated, professional small engine mechanic for a fast-paced customer service-based work environment.

Stockton Ace Hardware Inc

Be Seen First

Small Engine Repair and Service

Stockton, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Training and advancement with STIHL outdoor power equipment We are currently seeking a highly motivated, professional small engine mechanic for a fast-paced customer service-based work environment.

Three Point Solutions, Inc.

Engine Mechanic II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Engine Mechanic II Client : Aerospace Industry Duration : 6 months Location : San Diego, CA 92121 Shift : 2nd Shift - 2:30 PM to 11:00 PM (Monday-Friday) Qualifications: 2nd Shift Position: The ...

Three Point Solutions, Inc.

Engine Mechanic I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Engine Mechanic Client: Aerospace Industry Duration: 6 Months (Possible Extension) Location: San Diego, CA 92121 Shift: 2nd Shift (2:30 PM - 11:00 PM) Position Overview The Engine Mechanic I role is ...

Three Point Solutions, Inc.

Engine Mechanic II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Engine Mechanic II Client : Aerospace Industry Duration : 06 months Location : San Diego, CA 92121 Shift : 2nd Shift - 12:00 PM - 8:30 PM Description: * The Engine Mechanic II will support gas ...

Three Point Solutions, Inc.

Engine Mechanic I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Engine Mechanic Client: Aerospace Industry Duration: 6 Months (Possible Extension) Location: San Diego, CA 92121 Shift: 2nd Shift - 12:00 PM - 8:30 PM Position Overview The Engine Mechanic I role is ...

Three Point Solutions, Inc.

Engine Mechanic II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Engine Mechanic II Client : Aerospace Industry Duration : 6 Months (Temp to hire) Location : San Diego, CA 92121 Shift : 2nd Shift - 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM Description The Engine Mechanic II will ...

Three Point Solutions, Inc.

Engine Mechanic I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Engine Mechanic Client: Aerospace Industry Duration: 6 Months (Temp to Hire) Location: San Diego, CA 92121 Shift: 2nd Shift (12:00 PM - 8:30 PM) Job Summary: The Engine Mechanic I is an entry-level ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSmall Engine Mechanic JobsSmall Engine Mechanic Jobs in California

Small Engine Mechanic information

See California salary details

$10

$21

$32

How much do small engine mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for small engine mechanic in California is $21.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical daily tasks and challenges faced by a Small Engine Mechanic?

As a Small Engine Mechanic, your daily tasks often include diagnosing mechanical issues, performing routine maintenance, and repairing engines found in lawn mowers, chainsaws, motorcycles, and other small equipment. A common challenge is accurately troubleshooting issues that can stem from both mechanical and electrical components, sometimes without detailed service manuals. You’ll also interact with customers to explain repairs and provide cost estimates, so strong communication skills are valuable. Working environments may vary from independent shops to larger service centers, often requiring adaptability and efficient time management to handle multiple jobs simultaneously.

What Does a Small Engine Mechanic Do?

A small engine mechanic builds, maintains, and repairs small engines. There are a number of vehicles and pieces of equipment that use small engines, including lawn mowers, weed whackers, jet skis, ATVs, and chainsaws. Some small engine mechanics specialize in maintaining or repairing specific engines or systems, such as the transmission system, while others may be able to work on a large variety of engines and problems. In addition to actually fixing engines, you also provide customer service to your clients, order new parts, and maintain detailed records of your jobs.

What does a small engine mechanic charge per hour?

Small engine mechanics typically charge between $50 and $100 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the repair. Rates may also vary based on whether the work is performed at a shop or on-site, and some mechanics charge flat fees for specific services.

What is the difference between Small Engine Mechanic vs Lawn Mower Technician?

AspectSmall Engine MechanicLawn Mower Technician
CertificationsASE certifications, manufacturer-specific trainingManufacturer certifications, basic repair training
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, outdoor service sitesRetail stores, outdoor service areas
Industry UsageBroadly used in small engine repair across various equipmentPrimarily focused on lawn mowers and outdoor power equipment

Small Engine Mechanics and Lawn Mower Technicians both repair small engines, but Small Engine Mechanics have broader expertise across various equipment types and often hold specialized certifications. Lawn Mower Technicians focus specifically on lawn mowers and outdoor power tools, typically working in retail or outdoor service settings. Both roles require similar skills, but the scope and certifications may differ based on equipment specialization.

How much can you make as a small engine mechanic?

Small engine mechanics typically earn a median annual salary of around $35,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled mechanics with specialized tools and certifications can earn higher wages, especially in areas with high demand or in repair shops with a busy workload.

What are small engine mechanics?

Small engine mechanics are skilled technicians who diagnose, repair, and maintain engines that power outdoor equipment such as lawn mowers, chainsaws, motorcycles, and generators. They work with a variety of small gasoline and diesel engines, troubleshooting issues related to performance, fuel systems, and mechanical failures. These professionals use specialized tools and knowledge to ensure that equipment operates safely and efficiently. Small engine mechanics often work in repair shops, dealerships, or as mobile service providers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Small Engine Mechanic, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Small Engine Mechanic, you need a solid understanding of engine repair, mechanical troubleshooting, and maintenance, usually supported by a high school diploma and technical training or certification. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, repair manuals, and computerized testing systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong customer service skills help set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for accurately diagnosing issues, delivering quality repairs, and ensuring customer satisfaction in a hands-on, technical work environment.

Are small engine mechanics in demand?

Small engine mechanics are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for equipment repair and maintenance in agriculture, landscaping, and outdoor recreation. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as technology advances and equipment becomes more complex, requiring specialized skills and certifications.

What is the highest paid mechanic?

The highest paid mechanics are often specialized or master technicians, such as aircraft or industrial machinery mechanics, who can earn over $70,000 annually. Small engine mechanics typically earn less, with top earners reaching around $50,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, certifications, and location.
More about Small Engine Mechanic jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Small Engine Mechanic jobs in California? The most popular types of Small Engine Mechanic jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Small Engine Mechanic jobs in California? For Small Engine Mechanic jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Small Engine Mechanic jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Small Engine Mechanic jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Small Engine Mechanic jobs? Cities in California with the most Small Engine Mechanic job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Small Engine Mechanic jobs in CA? For Small Engine Mechanic jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Small Engine Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Engine Mechanic job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,431 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC

SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC

Ace Hardware

Half Moon Bay, CA • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Ace Hardware Corporation rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 1,463 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 46 rated home improvement retailers

Job description

Job Description: Small Engine Mechanic $20-$23/Hour DOE

160 San Mateo Road, Unit E, Half Moon Bay CA 94019

The primary responsibilities of the small engine mechanic are to diagnose and repair small engines while delivering professional, timely and quality service to each and every customer, every time. The small engine mechanic reports to the shop manager.

Position Summary

Troubleshooting equipment to identify problems and determine solutions

Performing preventive maintenance tasks such as lubricating parts, checking valve adjustments and wear on cutting attachments such as mower blades, chainsaw chains, trimmer attachments, hedge trimmer blades, gearheads and transmissions

Inspecting equipment for defects in materials or workmanship to ensure that it meets industry standards for safety and quality

Diagnosing and repairing units with problems such as ignition systems, fuel systems, motor compression, electrical systems, and hydraulic systems

Maintaining inventory of parts and/or supplies such as tune up components, carburetors, blades, and cutting attachments as well as any special tools or equipment needed to perform repairs

Installing new equipment and repairing existing equipment to keep it operating safely and efficiently

Repairing small engines, including but not limited to: lawnmowers, chainsaws, blowers, and other equipment used in landscaping and construction

Diagnosing problems with equipment by testing components and performing tests onsite to determine the cause of the malfunction such as motor compression tests, generator lack of power output, gear cases or drive systems

Explaining repair procedures to customers and documenting work performed on equipment through computer programs

Work with diagnostic software such as Mtronic and Autotune

Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

Understand the basic requirements for 4 stroke and 2 stroke engines to operate

Must possess a positive, self-starter attitude

Excellent verbal and written communication skills with customers and coworkers alike

Ability to work weekends and some holidays

Physical Requirements to Perform Essential Duties:

Ability to stand for long periods upwards of 8 hours per day

Ability to bend, kneel, crawl, sit and crouch frequently throughout the day

Ability to lift 70lbs, occasionally needing to lift heavy objects over head

Ability to hear equipment running to analyze failures

Sight is mandatory to ensure safety while performing essential tasks on mobile equipment

$20-$23

Wage

$20-$23

We are your local hardware store and we are a part of your community. Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently owned and operated by local entrepreneurs. These hard working men and women are part of the fabric of your community. They are small business owners who are local and loyal...just like it ought to be. While others have become large and impersonal, at Ace, we've remained small and very personal. That's why we say a visit to Ace, is like a visit to your neighbor.

Education:no requirementsEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Ace Hardware Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Ace Hardware logo

About Ace Hardware

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ace Hardware is a renowned company in the retail sector, headquartered in Oak Brook, IL, US. Dating back to its foundation in 1924 by a group of businessmen, the company has grown from a single store in Chicago to a global hardware cooperative consisting of more than 5,000 stores in over 60 countries. It operates in the home improvement sector and specializes in hardware, home goods, local niche services, and select specialty retailers. As prevalent in its motto "The Helpful Place", Ace Hardware's mission is to provide customers with high-quality hardware products while delivering exemplary customer service.

Industry

Retail, hardware, plumbing and hvac wholesalers and construction materials wholesalers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Oak Brook, IL, US

View All Ace Hardware Jobs

Apply