Diesel Mechanic Career Information
Diesel mechanics repair vehicles like farm tractors, bulldozers, diesel-powered consumer vehicles and public transportation vehicles. Professionals in this occupation may use computer systems to help them diagnose mechanical problems in diesel vehicles. Diesel mechanics often take classes and workshops to learn about new repair procedures and emerging technology surrounding the mechanical manufacturing of diesel vehicles.
Other People Are Reading
-
Education
-
Students who want to become diesel mechanics may enroll in formal training from a vocational or community college. Formal training programs can last from six months up to two years. A diesel mechanic may also receive on-the-job training that allows him to master engine, brake and transmission repairs on diesel vehicles. Mechanics start on-the-job training by learning basic tasks, such as changing oil and replacing parts, and gradually learn about repair techniques over an extended length of time.
Working Conditions
-
Diesel mechanics may repair vehicles in an automotive shop or along the side of a road, depending on the severity of the repairs needed. Hazards of this professional include exposure to high levels of noise and minor injuries, like cuts or bruises sustained on the hands or arms while making repairs. In order to reach diesel vehicle parts, a mechanic may need to hold his arms in an awkward position or crawl underneath a vehicle. Diesel mechanics normally work a 40-hour week, but shifts may vary depending on the number of vehicles that need repairs.
-
Advancement Opportunities
-
A diesel mechanic may progress into a leadership position, such as service manager, or he may decide to open up and manage his own diesel automotive repair shop. Diesel mechanics who achieve certification status in areas like preventative maintenance, brake systems or truck repair through the National Institute for Automotive Excellence may find more management opportunities available to them.
Salary
-
Mechanics who work on vehicles with diesel engines made $41,590 in yearly earnings and received an average hourly wage of $20, according to the May 2009 statistics reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Cities where diesel mechanics made the highest wages include Anchorage and Fairbanks in Alaska and San Francisco, Napa and Oakland in California. As of May 2008, mechanics specializing in diesel engines received yearly salaries ranging from $56,240 to $57,100 and made hourly wages ranging from $27.04 to $27.45, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Career Outlook
-
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that job opportunities for mechanics that specialize in diesel vehicles will increase by 6 percent from 2008 through 2018. Diesel mechanics who receive formal training through a vocational college or complete a mechanic program through a community college may find more job opportunities available to them.
-
References
- Photo Credit school bus image by Lombok from Fotolia.com
