ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Small Engine Mechanic Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Recology

Mechanic Swing Shift

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

Recology Sonoma Marin Mon-Fri 3pm - 11:30pm THE ROLE Responsible for mechanical maintenance services; maintains, inspects and repairs equipment and vehicles to ensure safety and on-going operation.

Certified Employment Group

Be Seen First

Maintenance Mechanic II

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Maintenance Mechanic II LOCATION: Santa Rosa, CA JOB TYPE: Full-Time, Temp-to-Hire (or Direct Hire - adjust as needed) PAY RATE: $26 - $30/hr POSITION SUMMARY Responsible for maintaining and ...

Foley Family Wines

Bottling Mechanic III

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$34 - $46/hr

Summary The Bottling Mechanic will work towards attaining bottling goals and company objectives through carrying out skilled technical duties involving repair, maintenance, replacement, installation ...

SMC LTD

Maintenance Mechanic II

Santa Rosa, CA

$27.31 - $31.73/hr

Minimum five years' experience as a Maintenance Mechanic. * Hydraulic and Electrical proficiency. * High school diploma or GED equivalent required. * Knowledgeable in differences of Metric vs ...

JLL

Mobile Maintenance Mechanic

Santa Rosa, CA

$27.25 - $35/hr

As a Mobile Maintenance Mechanic , you will play a critical role in maintaining the safety, functionality, and appearance of institutional facilities across your assigned territory. Working closely ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSmall Engine Mechanic JobsSmall Engine Mechanic Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Small Engine Mechanic information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$12

$23

$36

How much do small engine mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for small engine mechanic in Santa Rosa, CA is $23.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $26.30 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 popular job titles related to Small Engine Mechanic jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Small Engine Mechanic jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Small Engine Mechanic jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Small Engine Mechanic jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Small Engine Mechanic jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Small Engine Mechanic job openings:
Small Engine Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Engine Mechanic job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,222 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Mechanic Swing Shift

Mechanic Swing Shift

Recology

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Recology rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 75 rated recycling and waste

Job description

City:
Santa Rosa
Location:
1181 - Recology Sonoma - Marin
Subsidiary Name:
Recology Sonoma Marin
Mon-Fri
3pm - 11:30pm
THE ROLE
Responsible for mechanical maintenance services; maintains, inspects and repairs equipment and vehicles to ensure safety and on-going operation.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE, AND ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
  • Diagnoses, tests and repairs vehicles and/or heavy landfill equipment including, but not limited to, powertrains and drivetrains, as well as electrical, steering, braking, exhaust and suspension systems.
  • Diagnoses, tests and repairs refuse vehicle and transfer trailer body systems including, but not limited to, hydraulic, body control, electrical and body mechanical systems.
  • Diagnoses, tests, repairs and maintains processing equipment such as balers, conveyors, hoppers, electric motors and controls, as well as maintenance shop and company facilities.
  • Performs basic fabrication work using welding equipment, torches, tools and/or machinery.
  • Orders and maintains shop parts, tools, equipment and supplies.
  • Accurately and efficiently completes paperwork and/or computer database entries relating to the work performed.
  • Acts as a lead worker by regularly instructing and directing others by assigning, reviewing and checking work.

QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to qualify is:
  • Four years of progressively responsible mechanical experience as a journeyman mechanic (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
  • Waste and recycling industry experience preferred.
  • Experience and knowledge of DOT Out-of-Service Criteria including CHP B.I.T. Inspections and DOT compliance audits.
  • Experience working in a maintenance facility or related environment with vehicles, processing equipment such as: balers, conveyors, hoppers, electric motors and landfill equipment preferred.
  • Expert knowledge of diesel and/or compressed natural gas engines, heavy equipment mechanical components and parts, as well as fabrication tools and techniques.
  • Knowledge of alternating and direct current electrical controls and motor systems.
  • Knowledge of federal, state and local job site health and safety rules, regulations and best practices; understanding of potential job hazards.
  • Basic computer programs.
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Graduation from a formalized mechanical trade school highly desirable.
  • Valid Driver's License Required.
  • Ability to obtain a Class A or B Commercial Driver's License & valid DOT medical certificate within 6 months of hire date.

Skill and / or Ability to:
  • Ability to work any assigned shift.
  • Ability to promote the WASTE ZERO philosophy by making the best and highest use of all resources.
  • Work under pressure, handle stressful situations and maintain flexibility.
  • Ability to maintain high levels of activity or productivity; operating with effectiveness, and determination over extended periods of time.
  • Ability to build knowledge and expertise about current job.
  • Ability to read product information, manuals, work orders and other information necessary for performing essential job functions.
  • Ability to communicate, orally and in writing, effectively with peers, supervisors and customers.

RECOLOGY OFFERS:
  • An ecologically innovative company that finds and mentors people committed to protecting the environment and sustaining our communities.
  • The largest employee-owned resource recovery company in the industry with terrific benefits to help you prosper.
  • A creative and caring culture that values community, diversity, altruism, accountability, collaboration, and learning by doing.
  • An inspired company mission driven to use and return resources to their best and highest use through the practice of the 4R's: Reduce, Re-use, Recycle, and Recologize.
  • Distinct professional challenges to connect with, care for, and grow community that sees a world without waste.

RECOLOGY BENEFITS MAY INCLUDE:
  • Paid time off and paid holidays.
  • Health and wellness benefits including medical, dental, and vision.
  • Retirement plans (Employee Stock Ownership Plan, 401(k) with match).
  • Annual wellness incentives.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Educational assistance.
  • Commuting benefits.
  • Employee referral program.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job; and pursuant to applicable law, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal records. It is important that you provide accurate information on the job application, inaccurate information may cause delays in the processing of your application and/or may disqualify you as a candidate.
Recology is an equal opportunity employer committed to supporting an inclusive work environment where employees are valued, heard, and provided development opportunities. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis that is prohibited by law.
This description is not intended and should not be construed to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, effort, work conditions, and benefits associated with the job.trued to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, effort, work conditions, and benefits associated with the job.

What Recology employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply