Diesel mechanics repair and maintain diesel engines that power transportation equipment. Some of them work on other heavy vehicles and mobile equipment while some repair diesel-powered passenger automobiles, light trucks or boats. They use a variety of power tools such as pneumatic wrenches that remove bolts quickly; machine tools, such as lathes and grinding machines to rebuild brakes; welding and flame-cutting equipment to remove and repair exhaust systems; and jacks and hoists to lift and move large parts.
Diesel Mechanics Schools and Degrees
Community colleges and trade and vocational schools offer programs for diesel mechanics. These programs lead to certificates or associate’s degrees and last from 6 months to 2 years. Some programs offer hands-on training with equipment. Certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is the recognized industry permit for diesel and other automotive service technicians and mechanics. For certification, a mechanic must pass one or more of the ASE-administered exams and present proof of 2 years of relevant work experience. To remain certified, technicians must be re-tested every 5 years.
Diesel mechanics receive formal training and are also taught to interpret technical manuals and communicate well with the co-workers and customers.
Job Requirements
Employers prefer diesel mechanics who are graduates in formal training programs. Courses in automotive repair, electronics, English, mathematics and physics help build a strong educational background for this career. Diesel mechanics should be at least 18 years old and be in good physical condition. Mechanical aptitude and strong problem-solving skills are also vital. They need to be versatile enough to adapt to customer needs and new technologies.
Nature of Work
Diesel maintenance is becoming increasingly difficult, as more electronic mechanism is used to control the operation of an engine. Diesel mechanics handle all kinds of repairs while working on a vehicle’s electrical system and major engine repairs. They use hand-held or laptop computers to diagnose problems and adjust engine functions.
Diesel mechanics work in well-lighted and ventilated areas. They usually work indoors, but might also have to repair vehicles on the road. They usually work in teams and are assisted by helpers for difficult jobs like removing engines and transmissions.
Diesel Mechanics Jobs and Outlook
According to research in 2006, diesel mechanics held about 275,000 jobs in the US. That number is expected to grow by 11% in the next ten years. Employment is highest in the following industries:
Automotive Repair and Maintenance
General Freight Trucking
Local Government
Motor Vehicle and Motor Vehicle Parts and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers
Specialized Freight Trucking
The mean hourly wage for diesel mechanics in the US is about $19.04, while the mean annual salary is around $39,610.
Job Numbers and Growth
How many diesel mechanics are there? About 131,000 in all. Workers can most likely expect a low rate of unemployment. Note that 3% of employees were without work in 2008.
Area Job Conditions
Texarkana (Texas), Hinesville (Georgia), and Anniston (Alabama) boast the most diesel mechanics for their size population. Tallahassee (Florida), San Francisco (California), and Bridgeport (Connecticut) have the fewest.
The highest salaries for workers are in and around Ann Arbor (Michigan), Fairbanks (Alaska), and Anchorage (Alaska). The lowest-paying areas are Laredo (Texas), Pensacola (Florida), and Abilene (Texas).
Training and Education
Expect to get long-term on-the-job training for this occupation. The share of diesel mechanics with a bachelor's degree or higher is 3%. About 35% of workers got additional education after high school, but did not have to get a college degree. There was no need to go beyond high school for 62% of employees. Recommended schools are shown in the column to the right; request information from them to help you decide which if any could help you with this career.
Part-Time Work and Self-Employment
It is estimated that 2% of diesel mechanics work less than full time. Self-employment is the choice of 5% of workers.
Diesel Mechanics by Metropolitan Area (city and its surroundings)
In the table below, a Job Density near 0% means the area has an average number of people in this occupation, for its population. A higher or lower Job Density (e.g., +22% or -45%) tells you there are that many more or fewer workers of that type there than in the average US metro area. So, the higher the number, the more common the occupation.
Schools recommended for people interested in this career. Request info with quick online forms. These particular schools are noted for getting back to people fast.
Schools recommended for people interested in this career. Request info with quick online forms. These particular schools are noted for getting back to people fast.