Recreation Vehicle Service Technician: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Prepares students for a hands-on career in the specialized field of recreational vehicle (RV) maintenance and repair, equipping them with the technical expertise to diagnose, service, and restore complex systems and structural components. This program emphasizes practical proficiency in both mechanical and residential-style systems found in motorhomes, travel trailers, and other leisure vehicles, ensuring graduates are ready for immediate industry application.
- Brake, Hydraulic, and Towing Systems: Focuses on the design, function, and maintenance of braking mechanisms, hydraulic controls, and hitching systems critical to safe RV operation and transport.
- Electrical Systems: Covers the installation, troubleshooting, and repair of DC and AC power systems, including battery banks, inverters, circuitry, and lighting.
- Propane and Electric Appliance Integration: Teaches safe handling, installation, and servicing of propane-powered appliances such as stoves, water heaters, and heaters, alongside compatible electric components.
- Carpentry and Interior Finishing: Builds skills in cabinetry, wall paneling, flooring, and other woodworking techniques used in constructing and repairing interior living spaces.
- Plumbing Systems: Provides training in potable water, waste, and gray water systems, including pipe installation, fixture repair, and leak detection.
- Welding and Structural Repair: Develops competency in metal fabrication, frame reinforcement, and repair using various welding methods to maintain vehicle integrity.
- Structural Frame and Chassis Maintenance: Addresses the inspection, alignment, and repair of RV frames and undercarriages to ensure long-term durability and safety.
Recreation Vehicle Service Technician Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Recreation Vehicle Service Technician Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Recreation Vehicle Service Technician degrees, including First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers and Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 619,390 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers 49-1011 | $78,300 | $48,460 - $124,280 | 600,680 | $37.64 |
| Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians 49-3092 | $50,540 | $35,480 - $76,650 | 18,710 | $24.30 |
Recreation Vehicle Service Technician Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $52,090 in West Virginia to $93,170 in District of Columbia—a 79% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Hawaii, and Wyoming. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 619,390 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Recreation Vehicle Service Technician by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Recreation Vehicle Service Technician programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Recreation Vehicle Service Technician is found at Jones Technical Institute (J-Tech) (34 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 34 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jones Technical Institute (J-Tech) |
Associate's
|
34 | Jacksonville, Florida | Private | jtech.org |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Recreation Vehicle Service Technician programs
How much can I earn with a Recreation Vehicle Service Technician degree?
Salaries for Recreation Vehicle Service Technician graduates vary by role and location. First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers earn a median of $78,300 annually, while Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians earn around $50,540. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $93,170 compared to $52,090 in West Virginia. Approximately 619,390 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Recreation Vehicle Service Technician programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Recreation Vehicle Service Technician degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Jones Technical Institute (J-Tech) (34 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Recreation Vehicle Service Technician growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 3 in 2010 to 34 in 2023-24. This represents a 1,033% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Recreation Vehicle Service Technician degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers, Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians, . Related occupations employ approximately 619,390 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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