Is Becoming a Diesel Mechanic a Good Career?

Diesel mechanics, also referred to as diesel technicians, inspect, repair, maintain, and overhaul buses and trucks, as well as any type of diesel engine. Similar to auto repair technicians, diesel mechanics consult with customers, read work orders, interpret diagnostic tests, and repair malfunctioning parts in motor vehicles. The biggest difference between the two is the size of the vehicle being worked on and the differences in a diesel engine versus one that uses gasoline.

Read more: 3 Reasons to Become a Diesel Mechanic

Diesel mechanic training combines academic learning and on-the-job instruction. For those who enroll in a diesel mechanic school, training can be completed around your schedule in as little as 5 months.

Though certification isn’t a requirement to work as a diesel technician, earning your Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Medium-Heavy Truck Certification can strengthen your resume and could increase your earning potential in the field.

Bob Shafer, ASE certified skilled trades instructor at Penn Foster Group, thinks obtaining certification is worthwhile, especially the ASE certification.

“Almost every industry in trades I think, more and more, you're going to see some kind of certification,” he says. “I see it more with the ASE type certifications, where it's more an independent body rather than a state license. I think some kind of certification is probably going to be needed for employment and just in the business trade and industry itself over time. I think the more role-based stuff that ASE has or some different electrical ones and things like that out there, you’ll continue to see that.”

Read more: Can I Get ASE Certified Online?

Trained diesel mechanics can earn, on average, a salary of $58,970 per year. That breaks down to roughly $28.35 per hour. Pay can vary based on experience, where you work, and the state you live in, however. Those diesel techs who work in local government facilities tend to make more, followed by those in wholesale trade, automotive repair shops, and truck transportation.

Diesel mechanics employed by truck fleet dealers and repair shops may even receive a commission in addition to their regular salary. While earning certification can help you strengthen your resume, it could also potentially make you eligible for higher pay, depending on your company and performance. Steve Strapple, Skilled Trades Academic Lead at Penn Foster Group, emphasizes this sentiment. "Education is going to open doors to bigger opportunities. Every certification means more money in employees’ pocket because they are more qualified."

Read more: 10 Skilled Trades Jobs In Demand Right Now

Here are some questions you may have about this trade:

Working as a diesel mechanic has many pros, including but not limited to:

• Decent starting salary
• Pride in one’s work
• Understanding and ability to fix complex vehicle issues
• Multiple work environment options such as small repair shops, dealerships, manufacturers, etc.

A diesel mechanic job is extremely physically demanding and can take its toll on your body over time.

In comparison to a gasoline engine, many people find working on a diesel engine much simpler as they have fewer moving parts. There is less disassembly involved when working on a diesel engine.

Read more: What Are 4 Benefits of Learning Auto Repair Online?

Due to the physically demanding nature of diesel mechanic work, it’s possible your body can feel worn down quicker than with other skilled trades jobs.

Becoming a diesel mechanic can be a good career move for those who are interested in mechanics and want to start a job that offers the opportunity for satisfying work, as well as a solid entry-level paycheck. If you want to work with your hands, have the satisfaction of seeing the results of your work, and working in a field that offers new tasks every workday, diesel mechanics might be the dream job you’ve been waiting for. If you’re not sure how to get started with your training or have questions about how online diesel mechanic school works, or even if you’re interested in other automotive careers, consider reaching out to one of our dedicated Penn Foster Admission Specialists today at 1-888-427-6500!