Diesel Technician

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Work Tasks

• Fix and maintain diesel engines in trains, trucks, buses, bulldozers, tractors, and other diesel vehicles
• Fix electric generators and pumps used in oil well drilling
• Take engines apart, find out what the problem is, and replace, weld, and cut parts as needed
• Test and adjust parts to prevent problems from happening
• Usually work indoors for vehicle and equipment dealers, auto repair and trucking companies, schools, construction firms, and the government
• Work with diesel vehicles, hand tools, lathes, grinding machines, power tools, welding equipment, jacks and hoists, and testing equipment

Salary, Size & Growth

• $45,000 average per year ($21.75 per hour)
• A large occupation (222,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.6% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: On-the-job training
• Employers Prefer: A 2-year degree in diesel technology and certification in Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
• Skills/Courses: Courses in applied math, blueprint reading, shop, computers, and truck repair
• Certification/Licensing: A commercial driver's license may be required. Certifications are available.