What Is a Diesel Generator Technician?

What is a Diesel Generator Technician?

Diesel engines are important for providing power and are used in a variety of systems and equipment. A diesel generator technician is someone responsible for servicing and installing these types of systems so they can operate efficiently.

Those interested in the transportation industry might consider a job as a diesel generator technician because diesel power is reliable and used for so many things. Diesel generator technicians are helping to provide a necessary service for a range of applications.

It’s important for those interested in pursuing a career as a diesel generator technician to get proper training and experience working on these types of engines and equipment. Those who enjoy working with their hands and problem solving are likely a great fit for the role.

If working as a diesel generator technician sounds like it would interest you, keep reading to learn more about the role and the steps you might take to get there, including enrolling in a generator technician school like the Cummins Power Generation specialized training program offered at Universal Technical Institute (UTI)!¹¹

Diesel Generator Technician Job Description

Knowing a generator service technician’s responsibilities and duties is helpful for those thinking about pursuing it as a career. As diesel engines provide power for a range of applications, a technician is going to help ensure that they are running properly.

Diesel generator technicians need to be able to perform a variety of duties related to diesel engines and related systems. Some of their daily tasks might include:

• Installing new equipment and systems
• Running load bank tests on generators
• Performing voltage changes
• Rewiring and installing control panels and voltage regulators
• Preparing generators for shipment
• Performing preventative maintenance, including checking for worn parts and leaks
• Maintaining records of repairs and maintenance performed on equipment
• Calibrating and inspecting equipment
• Transporting equipment and tools from various work sites

Electrical Troubleshooting and Safety

A diesel generator technician needs to take into account electrical safety and electrical troubleshooting protocols. Technicians need to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working on these systems.

Different levels of PPE exist depending on the flash and shock hazard boundaries of the job. Before working, inspections of the tools, cables and equipment take place to ensure things do not look incomplete, damaged or worn.

Electrical equipment, including conductors and circuit parts, is put into a safe working condition before being worked on. This means de-energizing these parts. Energized work is only permitted when it’s determined a greater risk exists otherwise or equipment design prevents de-energized work.

Technicians perform job safety plans before starting work, which includes describing the job, identifying hazards, performing shock and arc risk assessments and listing work procedures. Doing these things helps ensure everyone is safe while working.

Generator Technician Training

Becoming a diesel generator technician is something that requires training and education. It’s crucial that those pursuing this career have a knowledge of how diesel systems work. Hands-on experience is extremely important so things are done right in the field.

Attending a trade school like UTI can help prepare students for a career as a generator mechanic.¹ The Diesel Technology program is designed to build a foundation of knowledge that can be applied to jobs in the industry moving forward.

Having a core foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience from a trade school can help set you up for success when pursuing a career as a diesel generator technician. Some schools, like UTI, offer additional manufacturer-specific programs that can further your education and give you a head start before you head into the job market.

When it comes to a focus on generator technician training, the Cummins Power Generation program is a specialized 12-week program offered at UTI’s Avondale campus in Arizona.^9,46 The course focuses on Cummins systems, allowing students to work on their world-class equipment.

Upon completion of the program, students will be classified as CMI Level 1 Technicians. Those who have completed the core curriculum program from UTI or other programs certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation can apply. While the training program is highly selective, it can help give those who are selected a head start working on some of the best equipment available.¹¹

Whether you choose to learn the basics and attend trade school for diesel technology or take things a step further with more specific training down the line, UTI can help prepare you to pursue a career as a diesel technician.

Diesel Generator Mechanic Schools

Those interested in a career as a diesel generator mechanic should consider attending a technical training school to gain the skills and experience necessary for the field.

UTI is a great place to start your diesel training. Our 45-week Diesel Technician program will cover the ins and outs of diesel technology and provides training in hands-on labs that mirror the industry.^7,18 This foundation of knowledge can be built upon once you get into the field and could eventually lead to a career as a diesel generator mechanic.¹

For those who want to extend their training, our Avondale campus offers a 12-week Cummins Power Generation elective program. Read more below:

Cummins Generator Technician

Students enrolled in the Cummins Power Generation program will gain extended knowledge of different electrical generators, power generation systems, equipment and controls relevant to the industry.

These systems play a big role in commercial and personal spaces across the country. Some of the key areas of focus in the Cummins program include:

• Basic Concepts of Power Generation: Students learn basic operation procedures for generators, along with the types of generators and their features. Electrical safety is also emphasized.
• Electronics: Students learn how to operate different electrical components, circuits and systems using the Power and Industrial Electronics Learning system.
• Industry-relevant skills: From preventative maintenance to skills focused on operating, installing and diagnosing motors and performance alternators, students learn the fundamentals they need.

Graduates of the program are qualified as CMI Level 1 Technicians, earning qualifications that allow them to perform preventative maintenance on Cummins Power Generation equipment:

• 2013-21Q P0/P1 Generator Frame
• 2013-22Q UC Generator Frame
• 2013-23Q HC Generator Frame
• 2014-39Q Alternator Repair All Frames

• 2008-14Q OTEC Qualification
• 2012-10Q GTEC Qualification
• 2008-08Q PC1.X/1302 Qualification

This specialized elective was developed in relationship with the Cummins brand, ensuring students learn the same way as techs in the industry.

Diesel Generator Tech FAQs

What are the main responsibilities of a generator technician?

A generator technician’s daily responsibilities may vary depending on their employer. Some main ones may include installing new systems and equipment, preparing generators for shipment, calibrating equipment, transporting equipment and running load bank tests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to become a diesel generator mechanic?

To work in the diesel industry as a generator technician, having a background of knowledge and hands-on experience is important. Getting experience at a trade school like Universal Technical Institute can help you get experience that matches the training techs receive in the field.

Other skills that are important to have as a diesel generator technician include attention to detail, a desire to work hands-on and willingness to learn!

What are the typical salary ranges for generator technicians?

While the salary for generator technicians specifically can vary, referencing the median salary for diesel engine specialists can give you a good baseline. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not provide information specific to diesel generator technicians, but there are numbers available for bus and truck mechanics, along with diesel engine specialists.

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 of diesel technicians 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.

Take the Next Steps to Become a Diesel Generator Technician

If you think pursuing a career as a diesel generator technician is right for you, training at a trade school could be a great place to start. Investing time in a Diesel Technology program like the one offered at UTI can allow you to get hands-on experience that can translate to the job market when you graduate.^1,18

You have the option to add to your experience with a range of specialized diesel training programs. These can help you narrow your focus to specific kinds of equipment, including Cummins and Peterbilt.¹⁵

Find out more about how to train for a career as a diesel generator technician by visiting our website to request more information about UTI’s diesel programs. Ready to get started? Start the application process today!