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Small Engine Technician Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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As a Service Center Automotive Technician, you'll perform a wide range of services and duties at ... Must be 18 years of age or older Small Engines: Ability to diagnose, adjust and repair motorized ...

Repair Technician

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Technicians deliver superior Customer Experience by providing timely and quality repairs to meet ... small engine repair, cell phone/ pc/ tablet repair, testing and rebuilds, circuit board assembly ...

Warehouse Technician

Decorah, IA

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Automotive, small-engine or equipment maintenance * Agriculture or farm-equipment troubleshooting * Warehouse or inventory work * Quality inspection * Electronics, cameras or connected devices

Warehouse Technician

Decorah, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Automotive, small-engine or equipment maintenance * Agriculture or farm-equipment troubleshooting * Warehouse or inventory work * Quality inspection * Electronics, cameras or connected devices

Warehouse Worker

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Warehouse Technician supports the daily operation of Story Construction's warehouse under the ... A current Class A CDL * Basic mechanical skills, including small engine * Experience in the ...

Warehouse Worker

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Warehouse Technician supports the daily operation of Story Construction's warehouse under the ... A current Class A CDL * Basic mechanical skills, including small engine * Experience in the ...

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Small Engine Technician information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$20

$35

How much do small engine technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for small engine technician in Iowa is $20.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $23.03 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Small Engine Technician job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,136 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Commercial Engine Technician - Field, Power Systems

Altorfer CAT

Davenport, IA • On-site

$20.75 - $28.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Altorfer CAT rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

161st of 177 rated vehicle equipment hire


Job description

Working Hours/Days
7:30 am - 4:00 pm Mon - Fri, some Saturdays as needed.
Basic Duties
  • Provide exceptional service to customers by performing maintenance, diagnosis, and repairs to Electric Power Generation and Industrial equipment.
  • This includes paralleling switchgear and electrical controls.
  • Inspect and recommend service repair options.
  • Communicate between customer and field dispatch.
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Ability to read electrical schematics, knowledge of proper electrical troubleshooting, and engine experience required.
  • Must be a self-starter with good time management, planning, organization, and commitment to detail.
  • Knowledge of Electric Power Generation equipment, engines, accessories, switchgear, and controls preferred but not required.
  • Computer literacy including Word, Excel and Outlook.
  • Military encouraged to apply
  • Excellent communication skills (written, e-mail, and verbal).
  • Must be able to lift 75 lbs.
  • Must be flexible to work varying schedules and hours.
  • Minimum high school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Must have a minimum of a D2 Chauffer's license or a CDL and clean driving record. This includes no more than 2 minor violations within the past 3 years and no major violations within the past 5 years (Motor Vehicle will be performed on final candidate).

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions
This position works in a field/shop environment primarily at Customer jobsites. May on a continuous basis walk, bend and lift up to 75 lbs. Will be required to wear appropriate safety equipment (IE- Safety glasses or side shields, hearing protection, etc.) for a given situation. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high. Must be flexible to work varying schedules and hours as needed. Occasional travel may be required. The physical demands described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Why Work for Altorfer?
At Altorfer, our iron is just the beginning. Our people make our company successful, and we would not be who we are without them. As a third generation, family-owned company created in 1957, we bring our values into how we do business. Everyone from technicians, sales representatives, administrative professionals, or somewhere in between is part of the "A-Team" and is critical to our success. Here at Altorfer, we have over 35 locations and 1300 employees with long tenure for you to learn from. We have a collaborative, family valued culture, with a great reputation in the industry. A company that offers competitive pay, excellent benefits, and a remarkable team of people to work with.

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