Any service technician who travels to a location to diagnose and/or repair machinery or equipment is referred to as a “field mechanic.” Although other types of mechanics exist, a field mechanic usually works on vehicles or heavy machinery. This professional’s training will vary depending on the types of jobs he or she will be doing on the job. Some technicians may only require a professional certificate and/or on-the-job training, while others may require only a professional certificate and/or on-the-job training. In the majority of cases, the mechanic will need to have a high school diploma.
A heavy machinery field mechanic will likely travel to construction sites, mines, quarries, factories, and warehouses to work on a variety of machines. In some cases, a field mechanic may need to complete both specialized training for one piece of machinery and a much broader battery of training to deal with a variety of machines. The mechanic’s job may require him or her to operate heavy machinery, which necessitates the acquisition of the necessary licenses. Almost always, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required.
Once on site, the field mechanic may need to conduct diagnostic tests on a specific piece of equipment to determine the source of the problem. The mechanic will most likely need to complete the repairs entirely on site, which means he or she will need to transport the necessary tools to the location in a truck or van. Repairing on the job site can be difficult due to changing weather conditions, insufficient workspaces, and the dangers of job sites in general. On larger jobs, the field mechanic is more likely to collaborate with an assistant, not only to make repairs easier, but also to ensure their safety.
If parts need to be fabricated, the field mechanic may be in charge, but he or she will almost certainly need to return to a workshop where such parts can be machined to the exact tolerances required for the job. Welding processes may be required, and in some cases, welding can be completed on-site. The mechanic will need to be properly trained in the safe and efficient use of welding equipment. If parts must be ordered, the mechanic is in charge of placing the orders and obtaining the parts in a timely manner.