1

Small Engine Mechanic Jobs in Brainerd, MN (NOW HIRING)

Strong mechanical aptitude * Ability to read and understand blueprints * Strong analytical skills Position Qualifications: Education: * HS diploma or equivalentrequired * Some technical education or ...

Strong mechanical aptitude * Ability to read and understand blueprints * Strong analytical skills Position Qualifications: Education: * HS diploma or equivalentrequired * Some technical education or ...

Strong mechanical aptitude * Ability to read and understand blueprints * Strong analytical skills Position Qualifications: Education: * HS diploma or equivalent required * Some technical education or ...

Small Engine Mechanic information

See Brainerd, MN salary details

$10

$21

$32

How much do small engine mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for small engine mechanic in Brainerd, MN is $21.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.51 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.

How much does a small engine mechanic make?

A small engine mechanic's average annual salary in the United States is around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. In some regions, experienced mechanics can earn higher wages, especially if they specialize in certain equipment or hold advanced certifications. Wages may also vary based on the work environment, such as repair shops, dealerships, or outdoor equipment stores.

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 between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, with experienced technicians or those working in specialized shops earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, certifications, and level of experience, and many mechanics work full-time with opportunities for overtime.

What is a small engine mechanic?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a small engine mechanic?

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.

Is a small engine mechanic a good career?

A small engine mechanic is a skilled tradesperson who repairs and maintains small engines such as lawnmowers, chainsaws, and generators. The profession offers steady employment opportunities, especially for those with technical skills and certifications, and often involves working in repair shops or outdoor environments. It can be a rewarding career for individuals interested in hands-on work and machinery maintenance.
What are popular job titles related to Small Engine Mechanic jobs in Brainerd, MN? For Small Engine Mechanic jobs in Brainerd, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Small Engine Mechanic jobs in Brainerd, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Small Engine Mechanic jobs in Brainerd, MN are:
What cities near Brainerd, MN are hiring for Small Engine Mechanic jobs? Cities near Brainerd, MN with the most Small Engine Mechanic job openings:
Infographic showing various Small Engine Mechanic job openings in Brainerd, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,049 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Hitch Installer / Entry Level Mechanic

U-Haul

Brainerd, MN

$11.41 - $13/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


U-Haul rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 520 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

148th of 171 rated vehicle equipment hire


Job description

Compensation Range: $11.41 to $13.00 Hourly

Location:

16707 State Hwy 371, Brainerd, Minnesota 56401 United States of America

Part-time with a flexible schedule. 5 to 20 hours a week.

Do you enjoy working with your hands? Are you interested in learning valuable technical skills? U-Haul is seeking a hard-working, knowledgeable person for the position of Hitch Service Technician. Hitch Service Technicians work in U-Haul Moving and Storage Center lots to provide outstanding service to customers using their advanced technical expertise.

Our motto is 'Hire Fast, Pay Fast.' You can start today and get paid today! Schedule two hands-on working interviews and get paid for each. We also offer a $100 hiring bonus! In addition, we offer a $300 cash bonus, paid upon completion of U-Haul Equipment Inspection and Verification through our 1-2-3 Punch Certification Program at retail stores.

U-Haul Offers Hitch Service Technicians:

  • Career stability

  • Opportunities for advancement

  • Mindset App Reimbursement

  • Gym Reimbursement Program

  • Health insurance &Prescription plans,if eligible

  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick days,if eligible

  • Life insurance

  • MetLaw Legal program

  • MetLife auto and home insurance

  • Discounts on Apple products, Dell computers, cell phone plans, hotels, and more

  • 401(k) Savings Plan

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

  • 24-hour physician available for kids

  • Dental &VisionPlans

  • Business travel insurance

  • You Matter Program (EAP) Employee Assistance Program

  • LifeLock Identity Theft Protection

  • Critical Illness/Group Accident Insurance

  • Dave Ramsey's SmartDollar Program

Hitch Service Technician Primary Responsibilities:

  • Understand and explain U-Haul's variety of towing packages

  • Recommend and install the right tow package on customer vehicles

  • Provide exceptional customer service and support to U-Haul customers.

  • Other duties as assigned

  • Participate in ongoing continuous U-Haul education through U-Haul University

Requirements:

  • Valid driver's license and the ability to maintain a good driving record

  • Basic wiring and hand/power tool experience

  • High School Diploma or equivalent

Work Environment:

The work involves moderate risks or discomforts which require special safety precautions, e.g., working around moving parts, machines, fumes, or irritating chemicals. May be required to use protective clothing, or gear such as masks, goggles, gloves, or shields.

Physical Demands:

The work requires some physical exertion such as long periods both indoors and outdoors of remaining stationery, traversing spaces, repositioning to reach and use tools, and moving a minimum of 50 lbs. assisted or unassisted.

U-Haul Holding Company, and its family of companies including U-Haul International, Inc. ("U-Haul"), continually strives to create a culture of health and wellness. Consistent with applicable state law, U-Haul will not hire or re-hire individuals who use nicotine products. The states in which U-Haul will decline to hire nicotine users are: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington. U-Haul has observed this hiring practice since February 1, 2020 as part of our commitment to a healthy work environment for our team.

U-Haul is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, provincial, state or local law. Individual accommodations are available on requests for applicants taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Information obtained during this process will only be shared on a need to know basis.


What U-Haul employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom