What to expect from a career working on Small Engines
With technology and equipment becoming more sophisticated each year, there is a growing demand for skilled workers who can service and repair complex systems and engines. Small engine programs at Ontario colleges consist of practical courses that will help you succeed in this highly-skilled industry.
If you’re a good problem-solver, have a mechanical mind and want to work with small engines, here’s what you need to know.
Small Engine Courses
As a student in a small engine program, you will learn to inspect, maintain and repair small gas and diesel vehicles and equipment, from lawn mowers and snowmobiles to chainsaws and other gas-powered hand tools.
Working with two- and four-stroke cycle engines, courses will cover technical and mechanical topics, including (but not limited to):
- Brake systems
- Engine function and design
- Engine fuel management
- Auxiliary power systems
- Steering and suspension
Students will enhance their troubleshooting and problem-solving skills through technical, hands-on workshop courses. Some programs focus on specific small engines, such as marine mechanics, while others focus on a wide variety of engines.
Note: You do not need to register as a small engine technician apprentice in order to work in this role, but the option to do so is there if you want to.
General Small Engine Program Requirements
An Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a grade 12 English credit, is typically required for small engine programs at Ontario Colleges.
For programs offering courses that fill the in-school component of apprenticeships, students will be required to be registered as apprentices with the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development. Make sure you check program descriptions and requirements carefully to find the right one for you.
Small Engine Jobs and Salaries
Graduates of small engine programs can jump right into a career or pursue apprenticeships as small engine technicians. Common places of employment include dealerships, resorts and manufacturers, in areas like recreational vehicle maintenance, small engine repair, parts and sales, manufacturing and more.
The average starting salary for jobs in small engine repair is around $30,000 per year, with the potential to increase as your expertise grows or if you choose to register as an apprentice and become certified. Salaries for workers in the field with five or more years of experience can be as high as $60,000 or more per year.
Ontario Colleges Offering Small Engine Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of small engine programs at Ontario colleges.
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