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What is a Diesel Mechanic?

Diesel mechanic schools teach students to work with any type of automobile that uses an engine which burn diesel fuel instead of more common fuels. The construction and design of such engines varies from traditional engines, requiring additional study or experience in order to be able to repair and maintain such vehicles. These engines are usually found in trucks, buses, and occasionally older foreign cars, as well as others.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$46,710

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

20.62%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

254,280

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Diesel Mechanic Schools

For more than 70 years, Rosedale Technical Institute has provided outstanding hands-on technical training programs. It is based in Pennsylvania and aims to train students for professional advancement by providing them with the necessary equipment and expertise. 

The diesel mechanic school at RTI offers a program that focuses on diesel technology wherein students will understand and practice to become responsible for inspecting vehicles that use diesel engines. Students will learn to diagnose mechanical problems, checking the batteries, adjusting tires, and inspection of parts. The program also has training opportunities that develop the skills of students to become diesel mechanics. 

Acceptance Rate

60.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Located in Virginia Beach, the Advanced Technology Institute has approximately 600 students. It was established in 1975, and its automotive program earned master certification in 1998.   The institution offers hands-on diesel mechanic training through its heavy vehicle technology program. Students enrolled in the program have an opportunity to work on automatic and manual engines to develop their skills that are essential for a rewarding career in the field. The program curriculum includes diesel fuel systems, drivelines, fundamentals of technology, brakes, and other related courses. 

Acceptance Rate

47.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology is an educational institution that is committed to developing today’s workforce and guiding them to become the leaders of tomorrow. The institution has been providing excellent education to the people of Pennsylvania since 1969. 

Individuals seeking a diploma in diesel technology can enroll in Central Pennsylvania’s 1106-hour Diesel Technology program. Throughout the program, students will receive hands-on training and lessons in brake systems, basic engine transmissions, fuel systems, electrical systems, air conditioning, engine overhaul, and the like. The program lasts up to 11 months and once completed, students will obtain a class B commercial driver license. 

Acceptance Rate

89.77

Tuition

$15,340 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

For over 41 years, the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges has recognized New Castle School of Trades as a high-end career college. Its approval rate is 100 percent, and it has a 73 percent graduation rate.  New Castle School of Trades provides a program that provides students with skills needed in the trades field as well as entry-level diesel training. The Diesel and Heavy Equipment Repair Technology program can be completed within 60 weeks wherein students will enable their skills in repairing diesel vehicles. Students will also have an opportunity to receive training for class A commercial truck driving. 

Acceptance Rate

100

Tuition

$20,736 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The Alfred campus of SUNY College of Technology is a student-centered institution in New York. It offers students hands-on learning and outstanding training programs to improve their skills and prepare them for advanced degrees and successful careers in the field. It has a student population of nearly 4,000 and offers 80 majors and over 100 student organizations. 

The college provides students with hands-on and classroom training that enhances the abilities and confidence of students to become independent technicians through its Heavy Equipment, Truck, and Diesel Technician program. Students will learn to identify the problems and repair heavy equipment including the truck’s electronic system, brakes, gas engines, steering, drive trains, and suspension systems. Upon completion, graduates of this program can work as a service manager, truck fleet mechanic, shop foreman, diesel engine specialist, and many more. 

Acceptance Rate

66.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Johnson College offers more than 15 degree programs that provide hands-on educational and practical learning for its students. It was founded in 1912 with the aim to provide diverse career opportunities for the community of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas. 

It has developed a diesel truck technology program that covers the latest information on repair procedures, safety applications, diagnosis, and preventative maintenance in diesel technology. The program also allows students to become prepared to take the mechanic certification test in heavy-duty trucks. Graduates of the program can work as diesel truck repair, service writing technicians, transmission technicians, and fleet maintenance technicians among others. 

Acceptance Rate

97.48

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Utah State University offers a dual-task model that blends world-class teaching with community college's professional and technical courses. More than 40,000 students were enrolled at the university by the fall of 2020, with 81 percent of them are working students. 

Individuals who wish to become diesel engine mechanics, fluid power technicians, trailer technicians, drive train technicians, and other related jobs can enroll in the university’s Diesel and Heavy Equipment Mechanic program. With expert instructors, students will learn skills that are fit for the industry through hands-on and theory classes and training. In addition, students will also learn the proper and effective ways to maintain and repair diesel-powered equipment. 

Acceptance Rate

90.95

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

The mission of SUNY Cobleskill - College of Agriculture and Technology is to teach by doing, strive to honor history, cultivate sustainability, and forge pathways for success. It also promotes the personal growth of the students while supporting and embracing the community. 

The college is known for providing outstanding diesel technology degree programs to help students meet the needs of the community in terms of trucking, power generator, industrial, engine and fuel systems, maintenance of agricultural machinery, and construction. Throughout the program, students will obtain the necessary knowledge and skills needed for a rewarding career in the field. Students can finish the program in 2 years after completing the 60 credit hours curriculum. 

Acceptance Rate

53.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

The University of Montana offers a stunning natural campus environment where students can learn and participate in top-tier education, internship, and research. It was established in 1893 and currently serves roughly 10,000 students on its campus in Missoula. 

One of its programs is named Diesel Technology wherein students will be provided with excellent courses related to the field including brakes and suspension, electrical systems, air conditioning, power trains, fuel systems, and more. In addition to the core courses, students are also allowed to take classes in computer, math, welding communications, and machining. Upon completion, students will be prepared to become competent and skilled technicians while also being responsive to the needs of the industry. 

Acceptance Rate

93.97

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Established in 1893, Lewis – Clark State College offers opportunities for students to have obtained professional careers through its more than 130 certificate and degree programs. Its mission is to prepare students to become engaged citizens, lifelong learnings, and successful leaders. 

Students who are enrolled in the diesel technology major can earn an associate degree or certificate upon completion. The program is developed by the school of technical and career education with the aim to provide hands-on training and lectures for students about fixing the faults and diagnosing the diesel engines of trucks and heavy equipment. Truck or bus engine specialist, diesel service mechanic, mobile equipment tech, and farm equipment mechanic are some of the careers the graduates of this program utilize. 

Acceptance Rate

99.76

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

The University of Alaska Fairbanks has been serving the community of Fairbanks since it first started operating in 1917. Today, the university accommodates over 8,000 students on its suburban campus in Fairbanks. 

The diesel and heavy equipment degree program of the university provides students with skills needed in suspension steering, drive trains, air systems, machinery dealerships, automatic transmissions, and many more. Students can access the program in person wherein they will receive practical experiences and classroom learning from dedicated faculty with years of experience in the field. Students will also be provided with academic resources such as the latest equipment and tools to ensure that the industry standards are met. 

Acceptance Rate

75.99

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Morrisville State College is part of the SUNY System where students can start crafting careers through real-world experiences and academic programs. The areas of study of the college cover business, sciences, finance, engineering, and more. 

The college’s department of agriculture has developed a diesel technology degree program that provides combined industry-standard technology with hands-on learning. Students can choose to have an associate degree in applied science or occupation studies that both prepares them for a rewarding career or to continue their education by taking bachelor’s degrees. The college also provides students with excellent facilities that can be used for welding, diesel fuel systems, small power equipment, and many more. 

Acceptance Rate

74.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

As a student-centered institution, the University of Alaska Southeast provides education in professional, technical, and liberal arts fields. Its rural campus in Juneau, Alaska serves more than 4,000 students each year. 

It has outlined a program in diesel power technology that concentrates on preparing students to work at high-demand and high-paying careers in the industry. It is designed to cover courses in diesel engines, machine systems, and more. Through the two-semester program, students will also learn valuable knowledge and skills that allow them to solve issues and repair diesel-powered machinery. The program also provides convenience for its students by offering online classes. 

Acceptance Rate

60.57

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

The Fred W Eberle Technical Center has a long history of offering high-quality vocational education and adult training programs. It was founded in 1968 and is recognized as West Virginia's first multi-county career center.  The technical center is also recognized for its evening adult classes that provide informational courses and flexibility to students. One of its programs concentrates on diesel technology wherein students will develop their knowledge and skills required for careers in truck mechanics, bus mechanics, and diesel engineering. The program will last up to two semesters during weekdays. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$2,500 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Washburn Institute of Technology is a provider of high-quality and affordable courses. It offers high-demand skills, allowing students to pursue good career and job opportunities in their chosen fields.  Washburn Tech offers a program for students who wish to have skills and knowledge in diesel technology. With the help of industry experts, students will be taught to service, maintain, and repair diesel-powered equipment such as trucks, construction equipment, farm locomotives, and buses. Upon completion of the program requirements, students will also receive career counseling and become potential employees in large equipment dealers, trucking companies, and local government. 

Acceptance Rate

50.35

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Tennessee Institute of Applied Technology-Memphis is dedicated to offering competitive training programs to its students so that they can better respond to the demands of the modern workforce. It has cutting-edge facilities that support higher education while also providing full-time classes, online degrees, and business training. 

The college offers a full-time program that is centered around diesel-powered equipment technology wherein students can earn a diploma or certificate upon graduation. The program has a mission to train students for a career in diesel service and mechanics as well as to repair and maintain heavy trucks, locomotives, and buses. Students can complete the program in 20 months with more than 2,000 clock hours. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$6,011 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

The Tennessee Institute of Applied Technology-Newbern commits to offer competitive training to students so that they can better respond to the demands of the workplace. In addition to higher education learning programs, the institution has cutting-edge facilities and provides full-time and part-time classes, online degrees, and adult training. 

The diesel-powered equipment technology program of Tennessee Institute in Newbern offers practical experience for students in repairing and maintaining various diesel-powered equipment. Students will also receive instructions in disassembling engines, troubleshooting, replacing defective parts, reassembling, and many more. Students can also choose to have full-time or part-time schedules depending on the option that suits them best. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$4,236 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

The Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Livingston provides opportunities for students to expand their knowledge in their chosen field of interest. It offers programs that ensure excellent hands-on career development education for its students. 

Diesel Technology is one of its programs wherein students will receive outstanding learning opportunities that cover reassembling and disassembling of engines, troubleshooting, replacing defective parts, and engine analysis. Students will be given 16 months and 1,728 clock hours to complete the program wherein they will obtain a certificate or diploma. The curriculum also includes heating ventilation, preventative maintenance, air conditioning, diesel engines, electronics, brakes, steering, drive trains, and many more. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$4,236 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

25:1

TDDS Technical Institute is a vocational institution committed to providing students in Lake Milton and the surrounding areas with meaningful learning and excellent training programs. It offers courses that focus on bus and truck driving techniques as well as diesel engine repair. 

For more than 40 years, TDDS has been training individuals to help them become professional truck drivers and diesel technicians. Students will study heavy-duty vehicles, basic welding, foundation brakes, power steering, suspension systems, tire services, and the like. The program can be completed after the 4 units and 60-credit hours. 

Acceptance Rate

68.23

Tuition

$8,480 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

Mid Florida Tech is also recognized as Orange Technical College. It has dependable coaches with rich practical experience that provides tailor-made courses that concentrate on various driving programs. The institution creates safe spaces for students by forming partnerships with local businesses. 

The mission of the Diesel System Technician program of the college is to exceed or meet the needs of the community by developing skilled truck and diesel equipment technicians. It trains students with the most current and modern technologies and helps students develop their leadership and professional abilities. The training includes overhauling diesel engines, repairing basic hydraulic systems, maintaining electrical systems, and many more. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$2,240 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Located in Chillicothe, Missouri, the Grand River Technical School is a small public college that provides vocational education and training for its students. It has a mission to develop the students’ skills, knowledge, and ability for rewarding employment in today’s challenging industry.

The school also provides a program focusing on diesel services technology that can be completed within one to two years. The training covers air conditioning, failure analysis, power trains, industrial gas engines, welding, and hydraulics among others. Upon completion of the program, students will receive instructor certifications that verify their skills in maintaining and repairing the electrical, diesel, and fuel systems as well as cycle engines, drivelines, and mobile air conditioning. 

Acceptance Rate

74.65

Tuition

$6,000 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

3:1

The Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology in Harriman is regarded as one of the state's leading providers of workforce growth. It is dedicated to its mission of delivering high-quality conventional and distance learning instruction that prepares students for career opportunities and advancement. 

Individuals who are interested to have knowledge in trucking, agricultural equipment, construction, and other equipment powered by diesel engines can enroll in the 20 months program offered by the college. It provides students with real-life experiences in engine analysis, troubleshooting, replacing defective parts of equipment, and many more. Students will receive diplomas and certificates upon completing the requirements needed for the program. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$4,236 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

D G Erwin Technical Center or also known as Erwin Technical Center is a vocational center that was established in 1925. It now serves nearly 1,000 students on its campus in Tampa, Florida.   Its diesel mechanics course aims to prepare students in the trucks and buses technical field by improving their analytical skills that used to repair and maintain medium to heavy diesel-powered machines. The program lasts up to 12 months wherein students are required to attend weekend and summer classes. Graduates of this program will be prepared to take certification tests that enable them to get a rewarding career in the field. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$3,818 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

The mission of Lake Area Technical Institute is to provide comprehensive and superior technical education that changes the lives of students by helping them launch a career in their chosen fields. It is a 2-year institution and features over 30 academic and training programs. 

Diesel Technology is one of the courses of the Lake Area. It teaches students to manage and repair diesel-powered trucks as well as ships and trains that carry tons of livestock and grain to the market. Students will also learn and practice providing emergency power to municipal utilities and hospitals. Upon graduation, the program allows students to further their education in light-duty diesel technology

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

WyoTech in Laramie is known as the best institution that offers training programs for diesel, collision, refinishing, automotive, and the like. It was founded in the year 1966 and offers student services such as financial aid, advising, and housing. 

Within 6 months, students enrolled in the diesel mechanic class at WyoTech will learn to tune-up, rebuild, and tear down machinery that is powered by diesel engines. Throughout the program, students will be taught about measuring pistons, performing tune-ups, multiplexing, emission, after-treatment systems, troubleshooting, control systems, and more. Certificates in street rods, applied service management, high-performance, chassis fabrication, and power trains are also available for graduates of this program. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$25,000 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

What Does a Diesel Mechanic Do?

While the typical day for a diesel mechanic looks different by industry sector and job specialty, the most basic diesel mechanic jobs encompass a core set of activities. These top 7 activities are summarized from the latest employment survey from the Department of Labor and include:

  1. Testing vehicles to ensure they are running properly
  2. Leverage manuals and work charts to manage workflow
  3. Communicate with vehicle owners and provide consultations
  4. Utilize checklists to ensure all related tasks are addressed within a job
  5. Identify and replace parts and assembly units
  6. Understand routine maintenance basics by vehicle type
  7. Perform inspections of engines, brakes, transmissions, steering units and related systems.

Most Popular Diesel Mechanic Specialties

As a diesel mechanic, you may have the opportunity to specialize in a particular type of vehicle or be generalist that works on many types of diesel engines. In either case, we have aggregated a list of common types of diesel vehicles for you to research further that include the following diesel mechanics:

Small Diesel Engine Mechanic

A small engine diesel mechanic must have a deep working knowledge about an array of engines. From diesel powered commercial equipment to residential diesel generators, a small engine diesel mechanic needs to be equipped to maintain and fix a variety of engines.

Fixed Diesel Mechanic Training

A fixed diesel engine mechanic is a professional that works on a diesel engine that provide electricity. By definition, a fixed engine will provide power to a stand-alone installation or system that is not tethered to a power grid. A fixed system can be in continual use or part of an on-demand system. As a result, a fixed diesel engine mechanic would either be on-site and employed full-time or service a series of installations on an as-needed basis.

Marine Mechanics

A diesel mechanic working in or around water must have a special set of skills to effectively and safely perform their jobs. The diesel engines used in marine applications will often be under stress for extended periods of time and regular maintenance becomes ever-more important to alleviate problems with the vessel. In addition, a number of boats and ships use diesel engines to drive a generator which provides electricity for the vessel. In these cases where electricity is generated by a diesel engine, a certified diesel mechanic must have acute awareness of the interrelated association between these systems.

Railroad Diesel Technician

Akin to the marine diesel mechanic, the diesel engines utilized in railroad applications may be under stress for extended periods of time. If not managed and maintained properly, the entire system can fail and cause large-scale problems for all involved in safely transporting goods and people via rail.

Large & Commercial Truck

Diesel repair and maintenance for both large vehicles and commercial vehicles powered by diesel engines is the most common type of discipline within the trade. Examples of large commercial diesel vehicles include long-haul trucks, buses, commercial trucks, construction vehicles, and military applications. A truck technician continues to be a highly sought after vocation by small and large employers across the country.

Diesel Mechanic School Near Me

Higher education institutions that offer diesel mechanic programs include a vocational school, community college, and trade school. Accredited colleges offering a diesel mechanics course will offer students with hands-on learning combined with classroom lectures. By leveraging both types of learning modalities, you will acquire knowledge about diesel mechanics and maintenance basics and to safely apply these foundational principles in a safe environment under the tutelage of trained, certified professionals. You can quickly find a full list of community colleges and vocational programs in diesel mechanics listed below by state or school name near you. Associate degree 16-24 month programs are akin to certificate programs with the additional benefit of core academic classes in diesel technology training.

Certification in Diesel Technology Training

Education in this field may begin through high schools or vocational diesel tech schools that double as training centers for high school students. Others may pursue an education in the field through a community college or trade school that specializes in the field. Mechanic schools are programs that typically take between six months and two years to complete based on the type of education being pursued. Courses will be primarily taught through practical means, though some will take place in a traditional classroom. Individuals who pursue an associate degree will also be responsible for completing general education requirements outside their major.

A curriculum may include:

  • Diesel Combustion
  • Repair and Maintenance
  • Exhaust Systems
  • Valves and Pistons
  • Electrical Systems

Employment Opportunities for Mechanics

Diesel mechanics tend to work at repair shops and repair stations as part of a team or individually in order to maintain trucks or buses as they come in or out. Individuals working at repair stations may be tasked with odd hours due to 24-hour maintenance and repair necessities. Individuals should seek out ASE Certification as soon as they qualify, which involves two years of on-the-job experience. Some employers may require licensure to drive trucks and buses, particularly if they need to test drive vehicles as part of their service. Descriptions and reviews of careers can be found by using local job boards.

Job Growth & Careers in Diesel Technology Program

Job growth over the next decade is expected to be well above average at 12% growth as businesses continue to utilize large trucks for transport of goods and schools and cities utilize buses for transportation of people. New openings may occur due to expansion, though many positions will open due to retirement and turnover. The average salary of a diesel mechanic is $45,170 per year equating to $21.72 per hour but can vary greatly based on location and experience.

Top States with Highest Employment of Diesel Mechanics

  • Texas 26,320
  • California 20,590
  • New York 13,290
  • Pennsylvania 12,020
  • Ohio 11,570

Top 5 Highest Paying States for Diesel Mechanics

  1. Alaska $62,710
  2. District of Columbia $55,930
  3. Hawaii $55,510
  4. Nevada $55,300
  5. Wyoming $55,150

Additional Niche Resources for Diesel Mechanics

  • Association of Diesel Specialists (ADS)
  • National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF)
  • Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES)
  • National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
  • Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association (AERA)
  • Electric Generating Systems Association (EGSA)
  • Electric Power Supply Association (EPSA)
  • Electrical Equipment Representatives Association (EERA)
  • Energy Information Administration (EIA)
  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
  • National Association of Power Engineers (NAPE)
  • Power Engineering Society (IEEE)
  • Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE)
  • Truckload Carriers Association (TCA)
  • Association of Energy Engineers (AEE)

Individuals interested in becoming a diesel mechanic may also be interested in auto mechanics technology, aircraft mechanics and maintenance, and auto-body, collision and repair.

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