Job Description of a Diesel Mechanic
A diesel mechanic is a specialized mechanic trained to service diesel engines. They are in demand to work in any industry that employs the use of diesel equipment.
Other People Are Reading
-
Types of Work
-
Diesel mechanics can work on a wide range of vehicles including buses, cranes, bulldozers, tractors, trucks and boats. They are employed by a variety of industries including government, motor vehicle parts-supply wholesalers, mass transit and freight trucking.
Required: Versaltility
-
In order to be competitive, diesel mechanics must have a working knowledge of all parts of a vehicle, extending beyond just the engine. Employers look for well-rounded mechanics that can handle routine service issues on their fleets of vehicles. Mechanics are also expected to stay abreast of emissions codes and how they affect the vehicles that they service.
-
Required: Computer Knowledge
-
Computers are increasingly being used for diagnostic and precision repairs on diesel vehicles. Diesel mechanics are required to operate these computer programs as needed in addition to making repairs.
Required: Comfortability with Doing Maintenance Checks
-
In addition to making repairs, diesel mechanics also perform maintenance checks on vehicles. They use a checklist to ensure that all vehicles are in good working order before being used in the field.
Tools Used
-
Diesel mechanics work with a variety of tools on a daily basis including wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, hoists, grinders, lathes and welding equipment as well as pneumatic and power tools. They are expected to know how to handle these tools and use them safely.
Environment
-
Diesel shops are typically well lit and ventilated; however, many of them are very noisy and not always temperature controlled. A diesel mechanic's work is greasy, and they may be required to stand or lie down in awkward positions for long periods of time as they perform maintenance.
-
