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Introduction

Recreational Vehicle (RV) Service Technicians are responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing RVs, motorhomes, travel trailers, and campers. This role is unique because it combines multiple trades, mechanics, plumbing, carpentry, HVAC, and electrical work,  into one job.

RV Technicians support a growing industry as more people embrace road travel, mobile living, and seasonal camping. It’s a career that offers variety, problem-solving, and direct customer interaction.

What Does an RV Service Technician Do?

• Mechanical Repairs: Fixing brakes, suspension, and towing systems.
• Electrical Work: Diagnosing and repairing 12V and 120V systems, batteries, and wiring.
• Plumbing: Maintaining water lines, tanks, and pumps.
• HVAC Systems: Installing and repairing air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration units.
• Appliance Repair: Servicing stoves, refrigerators, and entertainment systems.
• Interior Repairs: Carpentry, flooring, and upholstery work.
• Customer Service: Explaining repairs and guiding owners on RV care.

This career is highly hands-on and involves both shop and fieldwork.

Average Requirements

Education

• Minimum: High school diploma or GED.
• Preferred: Vocational training in mechanics, electrical systems, or HVAC.

Skills

• Mechanical aptitude across multiple systems.
• Ability to diagnose electrical and plumbing problems.
• Welding and fabrication knowledge.
• Strong problem-solving and adaptability.
• Customer service and communication skills.

Certifications & Licensing

• RV Industry Association (RVIA) Certification: Widely recognized for credibility.
• HVAC or propane licensing (for appliance repair).
• OSHA safety training.

Earnings Potential

• Entry-Level (0–2 years): $32,000 – $40,000 annually.
• Mid-Career (3–7 years): $40,000 – $50,000.
• Experienced (8–15 years): $50,000 – $60,000.
• Specialists / Independent Shop Owners: $60,000 – $75,000+.

Hourly rates typically range $16–$30/hour, with opportunities for higher earnings in busy travel seasons.

Growth Stages & Promotional Path

Stage 1: Apprentice / Helper

• Assists with routine repairs and basic maintenance.
• Learns multiple trade areas (plumbing, electrical, HVAC).

Stage 2: Junior Technician

• Performs standard repairs on appliances, plumbing, and electrical systems.
• Gains certifications through RVIA.

Stage 3: Certified RV Technician

• Handles full diagnostics and complex system repairs.
• Builds a reputation for quality service.

Stage 4: Senior Technician / Shop Lead

• Manages junior staff and oversees workflow.
• Specializes in advanced HVAC or structural work.

Stage 5: Independent Business Owner

• Runs a service shop or mobile RV repair business.
• Contracts with dealerships, campgrounds, or RV fleets.

Education & Training Path

• High School Prep: Shop, mechanics, and electrical coursework.
• Vocational Training: Programs in RV maintenance or general trades.
• On-the-Job Training: Learning under senior technicians in dealerships or service shops.
• Certifications: RVIA, HVAC, propane handling.
• Continuous Learning: Staying current on new RV technologies and smart systems.

Employment Outlook

• Projected Growth: ~6% through 2032 - steady demand.
• Drivers of Demand:
  • Growth in RV ownership and mobile living trends.
  • Seasonal demand (spring and summer peaks).
  • More retirees and families using RVs for travel.
• Industries Hiring:
  • RV dealerships and service centers.
  • Independent repair businesses.
  • RV rental companies.
  • Campgrounds and parks with onsite service.

Would You Like This Career?

This career may be a good fit if you:

• Enjoy working with your hands across different trades.
• Value variety: no two RV repair jobs are the same.
• Like solving complex problems that combine mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
• Prefer customer-facing work where you see the impact of your repairs.

It may not suit you if you:

• Prefer a single trade specialization.
• Dislike working in outdoor, seasonal, or variable conditions.
• Want a role with rapid salary growth in the first few years.

If you’re considering becoming an RV Service Technician, it’s important to see if your motivations, adaptability, and technical interests align with this career. Take the Free MAPP Career Assessment at Assessment.com to discover whether your strengths fit the RV trade, or if another mechanical career might be better suited.

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