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Small Engine Technician Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Engine Technician

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Hands on engine, head, and sub-assembly build experience. * Must have strong mechanical skills; ability to proficiently use all build related tools. * Proficient in MS Office products - Excel, Word ...

Head of Demand Engine

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Millions of individuals, small teams, and large companies run their work on Notion. Notinos (our ... About the Role Notion is looking for a Head of Demand Engine to build the engine that turns our ...

Head of Demand Engine

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$245 - $275/hr

Millions of individuals, small teams, and large companies run their work on Notion. Notinos (our ... About the Role Notion is looking for a Head of Demand Engine to build the engine that turns our ...

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Small Engine Technician information

See California salary details

$11

$21

$37

How much do small engine technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for small engine technician in California is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a small engine technician do?

A Small Engine Technician is a skilled professional who repairs, maintains, and services small engines found in equipment like lawn mowers, chainsaws, generators, and motorcycles. They diagnose mechanical problems, replace or repair faulty parts, and perform routine maintenance to ensure equipment operates safely and efficiently. Small Engine Technicians use specialized tools and diagnostic equipment, and they often work in repair shops, dealerships, or outdoor power equipment stores.

What does a small engine technician do?

As a small engine technician, you maintain, repair, and service machinery for lawnmowers, outdoor power equipment, boats, and small motorized vehicles. You typically inspect equipment or machinery and then diagnose issues. After you determine the problem, you discuss the repair with customers and take steps to fix the engine or peripheral systems. Other duties and responsibilities include replacing worn-out components and keeping records of tests and parts used during repair. In this career, you may handle the mechanics for all types of small engine equipment, or you can specialize in a certain type, such as motorcycles or boat motors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a small engine technician?

To thrive as a Small Engine Technician, you need solid mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting skills, and a high school diploma or technical certificate in small engine repair. Experience with diagnostic tools, manufacturer-specific software, and familiarity with engines from brands like Briggs & Stratton or Honda are typically required. Attention to detail, customer service skills, and the ability to work independently help technicians excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate diagnostics, effective repairs, and customer satisfaction in a hands-on, often fast-paced environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by small engine technicians on the job?

Small Engine Technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex mechanical or electrical issues in a variety of engine models and brands. Staying current with rapidly evolving technology and tools is also important, as newer engines may require specialized knowledge or equipment. Additionally, technicians may need to balance multiple repair jobs at once, especially during peak seasons, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Working directly with customers to explain repairs and maintenance recommendations is another key aspect of the role, so good communication skills are valuable.

What is the difference between Small Engine Technician vs Outdoor Power Equipment Technician?

AspectSmall Engine TechnicianOutdoor Power Equipment Technician
CertificationsASE certifications, manufacturer-specific trainingSimilar certifications, often including manufacturer certifications
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, dealerships, outdoor service sitesRepair shops, outdoor equipment stores, service centers
Industry UsageCommonly used in lawnmower, chainsaw, and small engine repairUsed interchangeably, often focusing on outdoor power tools

Small Engine Technicians and Outdoor Power Equipment Technicians share similar skills, certifications, and work environments. Both repair small engines like lawnmowers and chainsaws, often working in repair shops or outdoor service settings. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, with the main difference being the specific terminology preferred by employers or regions. Overall, they represent closely related roles within the outdoor power equipment industry.

Is small engine repair a good career?

Small engine technicians diagnose and repair small engines used in equipment like 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. Job stability and income can vary based on experience, location, and specialization.

What are popular job titles related to Small Engine Technician jobs in California?

For Small Engine Technician jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Small Engine Technician jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Small Engine Technician jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Small Engine Technician jobs in CA?

For Small Engine Technician jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Small Engine Technician job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,324 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Engine Technician

CCS INC

Anaheim, CA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Benefits:
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Dental insurance
  • Free uniforms
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in racing engine build environment.
  • Hands on engine, head, and sub-assembly build experience.
  • Must have strong mechanical skills; ability to proficiently use all build related tools.
  • Proficient in MS Office products - Excel, Word, Access, Visio, Outlook.
  • Attention to detail: Must be very detail oriented regarding both process and documentation.
Responsibilities
  • Hands on engine, head, and sub-assembly
  • Physical requirements are listed below but not limited to:
  • Standing-Frequent/Intermittent Up to 3 hours per day
  • Walking-Occasionally/Intermittent Up to 3 hours per day
  • Sitting- Occasionally/Intermittent
  • Lifting- Up to 50 lbs. Occasionally/Intermittent
  • Carrying-up to 50 lbs. Occasionally/Intermittent
  • Pushing/Pulling-between 50-100 lbs. Occasionally/Intermittent