Hands-on
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Explore a possible path
Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul small engines used to power lawn mowers, chain saws, recreational sporting equipment, and related equipment.
How does this connect to your interests? →A look at the work
- Record repairs made, time spent, and parts used.
- Test and inspect engines to determine malfunctions, to locate missing and broken parts, and to verify repairs, using diagnostic instruments.
- Dismantle engines, using hand tools, and examine parts for defects.
- Repair and maintain gasoline engines used to power equipment such as portable saws, lawn mowers, generators, and compressors.
- Adjust points, valves, carburetors, distributors, and spark plug gaps, using feeler gauges.
- Repair or replace defective parts such as magnetos, water pumps, gears, pistons, and carburetors, using hand tools.
- Perform routine maintenance such as cleaning and oiling parts, honing cylinders, and tuning ignition systems.
- Reassemble engines after repair or maintenance work is complete.
A selection of source-listed tasks; duties vary by role and employer.
Interests involved in this work
These source scores describe occupational work activities. They are separate from your personal test results.
7.0 / 7
Investigative
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Creative
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Helping people
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Enterprising
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Organizing
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Skills to explore
Source-reported importance on a 1–5 scale. Try a course, project or conversation to learn what these skills involve.
Repairing
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
2018-08
Equipment Maintenance
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
2018-08
Troubleshooting
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
2018-08
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
2018-08
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
2018-08
Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
2018-08
Equipment Selection
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
2018-08
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
2018-08
Quality Control Analysis
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
2018-08
Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
2018-08
Plan a small next step
Talk to someone doing this work, look for a supervised activity, and explore the subjects that interest you. Admission, licensing and current program requirements should be confirmed with the relevant institutions.
Source preparation category: Job Zone 2 of 5 · 2026-02. This category describes typical preparation, not your eligibility.
Related study fields
Source crosswalk connections are research leads, not required qualifications.
Small Engine Mechanics and Repair Technology/Technician →
Explore all related study fields →Source & methodology
O*NET-SOC code 49-3053.00 · Database 31.0 · Retrieved Oct 14, 2026. Dates on individual observations describe their source periods.
How interest exploration matching works →Data: O*NET® 31.0 Database, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Used under CC BY 4.0. StudyIndex normalizes the presentation and adds exploration features; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these additions.