A field mechanic travels to diagnose and repair machinery or equipment, often heavy machinery on construction sites, mines, quarries, factories, and warehouses. They may need specific training for one piece of machinery and a CDL to drive heavy machinery. Repairs are often done on-site, and the mechanic may need to manufacture parts or order them.
The term “field mechanic” is a general label given to any service technician who travels to a location to diagnose and/or repair machinery or equipment. A field mechanic usually works on vehicles or heavy machinery, although there are other types of mechanics. The training this professional needs will vary depending on the types of work he or she will be performing on site. Some technicians may need a four-year degree, while others may only need a professional certificate and/or professional training. In most applications, the mechanic will need to obtain at least a high school diploma.
A field mechanic working on heavy machinery is likely to travel to construction sites, mines, quarries, factories and warehouses to work on a variety of different equipment. In some cases, it may be necessary for the field mechanic to undergo specific training for one piece of machinery, as well as a much broader battery of training for dealing with multiple pieces of machinery. The mechanic’s job may involve driving heavy machinery, which means he will also need to obtain the proper licenses for that operation. A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is almost always required.
Once on site, the field mechanic may need to run diagnostic tests on a specific piece of machinery to find out what the problem is. Often, the mechanic will need to perform the repairs entirely on-site, which means he or she will likely haul the necessary tools to the site in a truck or van. Making repairs on site can be difficult as changing weather conditions can be a factor, it is likely that inadequate workspaces and workplaces in general can be hazardous. On larger jobs, the field mechanic is likely to work with an assistant not only to make repairs easier to perform, but also to improve safety.
If parts need to be manufactured, the field mechanic may be responsible for this, but he will likely need to go back to a shop where these parts can be machined to the specific tolerances required for the job. Welding processes may also need to be carried out, and in some cases, welding can be done on site. The mechanic will need to be properly trained on how to use welding equipment safely and efficiently. If parts need to be ordered, the mechanic is responsible for placing those orders and purchasing them in a timely manner.
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