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Diesel Mechanic Qualifications & Requirements
Interested in training to become a diesel mechanic? Learn about diesel mechanic qualifications and requirements here and how UTI can help!
Do you love working on big equipment?
If the answer is yes, a career in the diesel industry may be a fit.
Diesel mechanics, also known as diesel technicians, get to work on some of the most heavy-duty equipment on the planet, from engines on ships to oil rig, mining and agricultural machinery. Diesel engines power a variety of different types of equipment, including:
- Power generators
- Locomotives
- Construction equipment
- Large trucks
- Forestry equipment
Without them, so many of the conveniences we’re used to would simply not exist. They’re vital in keeping our country and economy moving forward.
So, how much do diesel mechanics make?
The answer: Diesel technician salaries vary based on many factors, including what equipment they work on, what industry they’re in and local wage trends.
To find out more about U.S. diesel mechanic salary trends according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2023, keep reading!
How Much Does a Diesel Mechanic Make a Year?
Skilled diesel technicians are in demand. In fact, there are more than 24,000 estimated average annual diesel technician job openings in the United States.43
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $54,360 in May 2022.29 This means half earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.
Read: How to Become a Diesel Mechanic
Are Diesel Mechanics Well-Paid?
Diesel mechanics are paid based on a variety of factors such as local wage trends, prior experience, education, employer availability and much more. If you’re looking to improve your education and prepare for the field, you can start training in Universal Technical Institute’s 45-week Diesel Technology program!1,7
With our state-of-the-industry core diesel training, students can take diesel mechanic courses and learn how to diagnose, maintain and repair diesel technologies. By completing this program, graduates can prove to employers that they’ve developed in-demand industry skills.
Read: Is Becoming a Diesel Mechanic a Good Career Plan?
Types of Diesel Mechanics and Average Salaries
There are a variety of diesel mechanic careers to pursue, as specialized skills are valuable to multiple industries. A few common industries for diesel mechanics include:
- Trucking and transportation: Mechanics in trucking and transportation work for trucking companies or transportation agencies, maintaining and repairing heavy diesel-engine vehicles, such as semitrucks and buses.
- State and local governments: These technicians service and repair the diesel-powered vehicles and equipment their local governments use.
- Power generation: Power gen technicians install, service and repair diesel-fueled power systems. Their duties include troubleshooting generators, calibrating equipment, working on internal combustion engines and more.
- Field service: Also known as mobile mechanics, these technicians travel to clients who need diesel-engine repair.
- Diesel automotive repair and maintenance: Typically employed by maintenance and repair shops, these technicians maintain, diagnose and repair diesel-fueled vehicles.
As previously mentioned, the average salary for diesel mechanic roles can vary by experience, employer, demand and cost of living. To help you plan a potential career move, here's a look at how the top states rank in median wages for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists as reported by BLS.
Diesel Mechanic Salary Range in the U.S.
Differences in state-by-state diesel mechanic salaries are due to factors such as local cost-of-living, the types of diesel facilities present in a region, the size of employers available in an area and local supply and demand.
Read: How to Train to Become a Bus Mechanic
Top 10 Median Annual Diesel Mechanic Salary
1. Washington: $60,780
Washington claims the top average diesel mechanic salary for 2021. The state serves the Pacific Northwest and beyond as a leader in agriculture and food manufacturing, green technology, forestry, military, defense and maritime industries.
Diesel technicians here are needed to work on ships, farming equipment, forestry equipment and more. They also work in manufacturing, including on machines producing life science and global health products.
2. California, Hawaii & Massachusetts: $60,550
The average diesel mechanic salaries in California, Hawaii and Massachusetts all tied for the second highest in 2021.
California’s economy is larger than entire countries like Mexico, Canada, Spain and South Korea. Major industries include agriculture, transportation, manufacturing and utilities. Diesel technicians are needed in the state to work on farm equipment, forestry equipment, ships, large trucks and more.
Hawai’i, the Aloha State, is home to several U.S. military bases for the Air Force, Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Marines. Hawai’i is also a major agricultural producer, exporting items like sugar cane, pineapple, coffee and macadamia nuts. These industries all rely on diesel equipment.
Manufacturing and fishing are two of the top industries in Massachusetts. Diesel technicians here work on ship equipment and in manufacturing sectors.
3. Alaska & Connecticut: $60,270
Alaska’s top economic industries include oil, fishing, timber, mining and agriculture. All of these industries use diesel-powered equipment. If you love the outdoors, you might consider pursuing a diesel career in Alaska.
Connecticut, the Constitution State, touts advanced manufacturing, bioscience and green technology among its top industries. The state is a manufacturer of jet engines, nuclear submarines, medical tools and green-energy technologies. Diesel equipment powers much of the work in these industries.
4. Colorado, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota & Rhode Island: $59,770
Five states tied for the fourth-highest median annual diesel mechanic salary for 2021.
Some of the biggest industries in Colorado include manufacturing, mining and agriculture. Within each of these sectors, diesel technicians may be able to find work.
New Jersey has diesel technician jobs for industries such as manufacturing, transportation and logistics, and pharmaceuticals. According to the state government website, New Jersey has been a top producer of pharmaceuticals and is the industry’s most strategically relevant manufacturing site .
New York has the third-largest economy in the U.S., Investopedia reports. The state is a major exporter of manufactured goods to other states and countries, and its role in technical manufacturing has risen in recent years.
According to World Atlas, approximately 90% of the land in North Dakota is devoted to farming. This means diesel technicians who can work on agricultural equipment are essential to the state’s economy.
When combining the relatively low cost of living with an above average salary in the diesel industry, Rhode Island can be a great place to live and work. According to WorldAtlas, manufacturing is a top industry in the state, which means there are lots of machinery in need of diesel mechanics to help keep Rhode Island’s economy going.
5. Minnesota: $59,250
According to World Atlas, Minnesota is another state with agriculture as a top industry, along with manufacturing and mining — all industries that need diesel mechanics to keep them running.
Also, agriculture isn’t just part of its economy. I t’s a way of life in Minnesota. Another staple in Minnesota is county fairs, which often mean great food and tons of fun!
6. Maryland: $59,190
Heading back to the East Coast for sixth place, Maryland is one of the original 13 colonies, and its economy reflects that. Since the colonial period, Maryland has had large tobacco farms and large farms with other crops.
Maryland is also home to a bustling manufacturing industry. Both manufacturing and agriculture rely on big machines and diesel mechanics to keep them running. Plus, you can enjoy stunning natural landscapes and delicious blue crabs if you choose to live and work in Maryland!
7. Nevada: $59,130
The Silver State is known for its mining and cattle ranching, along with tourism (Nevada is home to Las Vegas). The most important mining exports are gold and silver, hence the state’s nickname.
These are all industries where diesel technicians are in demand. Nevada is a great place for those who love the outdoors, with the Colorado River, ATV tours, Lake Tahoe and historic routes to drive and explore.
8. Illinois: $58,150
Illinois’ industrial output includes fruits and vegetables, machinery, food processing, electrical equipment, chemical products, and more, according to Livability. These industries require large diesel machines to keep them running, which means diesel mechanics are needed. Plus, Illinois is home to Chicago, with its beautiful architecture and iconic deep-dish pizza.
9. New Hampshire: $54,140
Another state on the East Coast, New Hampshire relies on tourism for its economy. Tourists flock to the Lakes Region, Seacoast and White Mountains, to name a few. The state also has several historical attractions to explore.
More importantly for diesel technicians, New Hampshire relies on health care and high-technology manufacturing. They help keep these industries’ machinery running and delivered smoothly, the state needs local skilled diesel mechanics.
10. Wisconsin: $49,380
“America’s Dairyland” is more than just a catchy slogan. Wisconsin produces about 26% of the nation’s cheese each year thanks to more than 1 million cows and 8,000 licensed dairy farms. With agriculture being a large part of Wisconsin’s economy, diesel technicians in demand in this state.
Ranking Diesel Mechanic Salary for All 50 States and the District of Columbia
| Rank | State | Annual Median Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | WA | $60,780 |
| 2 | CA | $60,550 |
| HI | $60,550 | |
| MA | $60,550 | |
| 3 | AK | $60,270 |
| CT | $60,270 | |
| 4 | CO | $59,770 |
| ND | $59,770 | |
| NJ | $59,770 | |
| NY | $59,770 | |
| RI | $59,770 | |
| 5 | MN | $59,250 |
| 6 | MD | $59,190 |
| 7 | NV | $59,130 |
| 8 | IL | $58,150 |
| 9 | NH | $54,140 |
| 10 | WI | $49,380 |
| 11 | UT | $49,240 |
| 12 | OR | $48,720 |
| 13 | VA | $48,630 |
| WY | $48,630 | |
| 14 | AZ | $48,480 |
| 15 | DE | $48,390 |
| 16 | FL | $48,340 |
| 17 | LA | $48,210 |
| 18 | PA | $48,190 |
| 19 | IA | $48,050 |
| 20 | SD | $47,990 |
| 21 | KS | $47,870 |
| 22 | MI | $47,850 |
| TX | $47,850 | |
| 23 | OH | $47,840 |
| 24 | NC | $47,600 |
| 25 | MT | $47,410 |
| 26 | IN | $47,400 |
| VT | $47,400 | |
| 27 | GA | $47,310 |
| NM | $47,310 | |
| TN | $47,310 | |
| 28 | ID | $47,200 |
| 29 | ME | $47,160 |
| 30 | KY | $47,120 |
| MO | $47,120 | |
| NE | $47,120 | |
| OK | $47,120 | |
| 31 | AL | $46,420 |
| MS | $46,420 | |
| 32 | AR | $42,700 |
| 33 | SC | $40,220 |
| 34 | WV | $38,640 |
| — | DC | N/A |
Read: Diesel 101: History & Invention of the Diesel Engine
FAQs
What Is the Highest Paid Diesel Mechanic?
The BLS reports that diesel mechanics who work in scheduled air transportation are the highest paid.
What is the Median Hourly Wage for Diesel Mechanics?
The BLS reports that the median hourly wage for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $26.14 as of May 2022.
What Factors Affect Diesel Technician Salary?
Diesel technician salary is determined by several factors, including experience, employer, demand and the cost of living in the area.
Do Diesel Mechanics Earn More Than Other Automotive Technicians?
According to the BLS in May 2022, the median annual salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $54,360 while the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $46,970.25
Is Becoming a Diesel Mechanic Hard?
In addition to having a specific set of technician traits, such as analytical skills and the ability to think on your feet, becoming a diesel mechanic requires specific training. Some mechanics receive on-the-job training after graduating from high school. Professionals and aspiring technicians should also be taking the initiative to learn about new diesel technology within the field, even years after graduating.
However, completing a formal diesel training program can be a great place to learn how to become a diesel mechanic. Attending a technical school like UTI can provide you with hands-on training with the tools and machines that are used in the field.18
Read: What is a Heavy-Duty Diesel Mechanic?
Want to Pursue a Future in Diesel? Train at UTI
Now that you have a better understanding of the annual average diesel mechanic salary, you may be interested in learning how to service large equipment that powers some of the world's biggest industries.
To learn more about UTI’s Diesel Technology training program, click the links below or call 1-800-834-7308 to connect with an Admissions Representative who can help you get started and answer any questions you may have!
UTI Campuses That Offer Diesel Mechanic Training
- Avondale, Arizona
- Long Beach, California
- Rancho Cucamonga, California
- Sacramento, California
- Austin, Texas
- Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas
- Houston, Texas
- Bloomfield, New Jersey
- Exton, Pennsylvania
- Lisle, Illinois
- Miramar, Florida
- Orlando, Florida
What you Should do Next
- Browse our hundreds of articles on how to train for a career in the trades.1
- Take a virtual tour of our campuses.
- Take 60 seconds and find out how you can get trained in less than a year.7
YOU COULD START YOUR EXCITING NEW CAREER AS A MECHANIC OR TECHNICIAN TODAY.
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1 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2 ) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
7 ) Some programs may require longer than one year to complete.
18 ) UTI now offers all of its automotive, diesel, motorcycle and marine technician training in a blended-learning format consisting of online lecture courses along with in-person, hands-on lab training.
25 ) UTI’s Automotive Technology Program prepares graduates for entry-level positions using the provided training, primarily as automotive technicians. Estimated annual salary shown above is for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics as published in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2022 Occupational Employment and Wages. Entry-level salaries are lower for UTI graduates. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on economic factors, personal credentials, work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer, and their compensation programs. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as an automotive technician, such as service writer, smog inspector, and parts associate. Salary information for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: The average annual entry-level salary range for persons employed as Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics (49-3023) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is $32,140 to $53,430 (Massachusetts Labor and Workforce Development, May 2020 data https://lmi.dua.eol.mass.gov/lmi/OccupationalEmploymentAndWageSpecificOccupations#). Salary information for North Carolina: The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the hourly median wage for skilled automotive technicians in North Carolina is $21.80 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, May 2022 Occupational Employment and Wages, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics). The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish entry-level salary data. However, the 25th and 10th percentile of hourly earnings in North Carolina are $15.23 and $13.48, respectively.
29 ) UTI’s Diesel Technology Program prepares graduates for entry-level positions using the provided training, primarily as diesel technicians. Estimated annual salary shown above is for Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists as published in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2022 Occupational Employment and Wages. Entry-level salaries are lower for UTI graduates. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on economic factors, personal credentials, work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer, and their compensation programs. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as diesel truck technicians, including in industries such as heavy equipment repair, power generation, and agriculture. Salary information for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: The average annual entry-level salary range for persons employed as Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists (49-3031) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is $32,360 to $94,400 (Massachusetts Labor and Workforce Development, May 2020 data https://lmi.dua.eol.mass.gov/lmi/OccupationalEmploymentAndWageSpecificOccupations#). Salary information for North Carolina: The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the hourly median wage for skilled diesel technicians in North Carolina is $24.18 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, May 2022 Occupational Employment and Wages, Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists). The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish entry-level salary data. However, the 25th and 10th percentile of hourly earnings in North Carolina are $20.56 and $17.49, respectively.
43 ) For Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an annual average of 24,300 job openings between 2022 and 2032. Job openings include openings due to net employment changes and net replacements.
See Table 1.10 Occupational separations and openings, projected 2022-32, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, viewed November 16, 2023. UTI and MIAT are educational institutions and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
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