MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR
BECOME A
Diesel Technician
"The diesel engine is the backbone of industry — powering progress, moving nations, and driving the future of machinery."
— Rudolf Diesel
Program Start:
Coming Soon
Program Duration:
TBA
PAY SNAPSHOT
2023 Median National Annual Pay
$58,970
2023 Top Decile National Annual Pay
$82,430
6 Month Advertised Salary Growth
3%
12 Month Advertised Salary Growth
3%
What Is A Diesel Mechanic?
A Diesel Mechanic or Technician repairs and rebuilds diesel engines for trucks, ships, tractors, buses, and heavy machinery. They diagnose mechanical issues, replace faulty parts, and perform routine maintenance to maximize performance and efficiency. Mechanics inspect engine components, troubleshoot electrical systems, and use diagnostic tools to pinpoint problems. They follow manufacturer guidelines for repairs, adjust fuel injection systems, and ensure compliance with emissions regulations. Diesel mechanics must understand braking systems, hydraulics, and computerized engine controls. They may also conduct safety inspections and road tests to verify repairs.
What Could I Earn?
National median annual pay (2023) for diesel mechanics in the top industries in which they worked were as follows
How Do I Become A Diesel Mechanic?
Becoming a Diesel Technician requires a combination of education, hands-on experience, and technical skill. These can typically be acquired through a trade school or vocational program, community college, or 4-year university, depending on the breadth of knowledge and experience required. A short curriculum may read as follows:
Diesel Engine Fundamentals
Students learn the principles of diesel engines, including fuel systems, air intake, and exhaust systems. Training covers engine components, combustion processes, and efficiency optimization.
Fuel Systems & Emissions Control
Training includes diagnosing and maintaining fuel injectors, pumps, and emission control systems. Students learn about EPA compliance, DEF systems, and reducing vehicle emissions.
Electrical & Electronic Systems
Technicians develop skills in diagnosing and repairing electrical systems, including starters, alternators, wiring, and onboard computer diagnostics. Training includes troubleshooting sensors and control modules.
Heavy-Duty Brake & Suspension Systems
Students learn to inspect, repair, and maintain air brake systems, hydraulic brakes, and suspension components. Training covers DOT regulations and brake troubleshooting procedures.
Transmission & Drivetrain Systems
Technicians gain experience with manual and automatic transmissions, clutches, axles, and differentials. Training covers diagnosing driveline issues and performing necessary repairs.
Certification & Career Advancement
Students prepare for ASE certification and develop skills for career growth. Training covers preventive maintenance, safety regulations, and career pathways in fleet maintenance, dealership service, and advanced diesel diagnostics.
Students learn the principles of diesel engines, including fuel systems, air intake, and exhaust systems. Training covers engine components, combustion processes, and efficiency optimization.
Technicians develop skills in diagnosing and repairing electrical systems, including starters, alternators, wiring, and onboard computer diagnostics. Training includes troubleshooting sensors and control modules.
Students learn to inspect, repair, and maintain air brake systems, hydraulic brakes, and suspension components. Training covers DOT regulations and brake troubleshooting procedures.
Training includes diagnosing and maintaining fuel injectors, pumps, and emission control systems. Students learn about EPA compliance, DEF systems, and reducing vehicle emissions.
Technicians gain experience with manual and automatic transmissions, clutches, axles, and differentials. Training covers diagnosing driveline issues and performing necessary repairs.
Students prepare for ASE certification and develop skills for career growth. Training covers preventive maintenance, safety regulations, and career pathways in fleet maintenance, dealership service, and advanced diesel diagnostics.
What Could I Earn?
National median annual pay (2023) for diesel mechanics in the top industries in which they worked were as follows
$70,710
Local government, excluding education and hospitals
$60,980
Wholesale trade
$57,590
Automotive repair and maintenance
$56,020
Rental and leasing services
$52,820
Truck transportation
What Skills Are Important?
Diesel Mechanic
Diesel Engines
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
33,374
Diesel engine repair involves diagnosing, maintaining, and fixing diesel engines in trucks, buses, and machinery. It requires mechanical knowledge, specialized training, troubleshooting, and maintenance skills to ensure efficiency and reliability.
Valid Driver's License
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
26,644
A valid driver's license is an official documentation that certifies an individual's ability to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. It is issued by a government agency after an individual passes a driving test and meets certain requirements such as age, vision, and knowledge of traffic laws.
Customer Service
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
17,732
Customer service is essential across industries, involving clear communication to address customer needs, resolve issues, and provide prompt, professional support. Key traits include patience, empathy, and product knowledge, fostering satisfaction, loyalty, and lasting relationships.
Troubleshooting (Problem Solving)
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
17,365
Troubleshooting is the skill of identifying, analyzing, and resolving issues. It’s crucial for overcoming challenges, improving processes, and achieving goals in work and life by diagnosing causes and implementing effective solutions.
Communication
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
16,521
Communication is the skill of conveying information clearly and collaborating effectively. It simplifies complex ideas for diverse audiences, fostering understanding, problem-solving, and cooperation in personal, academic, and professional settings.
How Are Job Postings Trending?
Diesel Mechanic
What Industries Are Experiencing Growth?
Diesel Mechanic
Truck Transportation
2,075
Postings
9%
Change from last year
Rental and Leasing Services
1,070
Postings
43%
Change from last year
Administrative and Support Services
873
Postings
-33%
Change from last year
Waste Management and Remediation Services
857
Postings
2%
Change from last year
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
814
Postings
11%
Change from last year
Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods
727
Postings
349%
Change from last year
Gasoline Stations and Fuel Dealers
577
Postings
604%
Change from last year
Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
517
Postings
60%
Change from last year
Repair and Maintenance
311
Postings
1%
Change from last year
Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods
268
Postings
-42%
Change from last year
What Industries Are Experiencing Growth?
Diesel Mechanic
Top Companies
Where Are The Top Companies Hiring?
Diesel Mechanic
Top Cities
5-Month Job Postings
Phoenix, AZ
77
Orlando, FL
75
Indianapolis, IN
74
Houston, TX
70
Kansas City, MO
69
Top Companies
5-Month Job Postings
Company
Postings
Postings
City, State
Postings
City, State