What Does a Diesel Mechanic Do?
Diesel mechanics inspect, repair and maintain equipment powered by diesel engines — from trucks and buses to bulldozers, cranes and generators. They diagnose mechanical and electrical systems, perform routine maintenance and complete complex repairs that keep essential industries moving.
For those drawn to powerful machinery and hands-on problem solving, this is work that’s active, technical and rooted in real responsibility.
How Can You Prepare To Become a Diesel Mechanic at UTI?
You may know you want to work on big engines, but figuring out how to break into the diesel industry can feel unclear. What certifications matter? What experience do employers expect? Where do you begin? UTI provides a structured starting point.
In less than a year, you could graduate as a trained diesel technician.1, 7 Training combines instructor-led online coursework with hands-on lab application, so you learn the concepts and apply them through real-world repairs.
From there, you may have the opportunity to pursue specialized training on diesel trucks and engines from leading manufacturers and receive support from Career Services as you prepare to enter the workforce.11
Diesel Mechanic Program Overview
When you choose UTI's Diesel Technology program, you’re in good company. Some of the biggest names in diesel look to UTI graduates to keep their engines running. That means you can feel confident that you’ll be taught the skills top manufacturers say matter most for diesel technicians.
11-12 months
4 programs
Specialized Diesel Technician Training
Take your diesel technician skills to the next level through Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs at UTI.11 These diesel mechanic programs are developed in collaboration with leading manufacturers in the industry, such as Cummins,46 Peterbilt15 and Freightliner. Students learn current techniques, tools and technologies unique to these brands.
In fact, the curriculum is designed to mirror the workflows, repair procedures and diagnostics found in diesel shops, which can help with the transition from diesel mechanic school to pursuing a career.
As an added advantage, some of these advanced training programs can be funded by the manufacturers themselves, making it easier to focus on honing skills without the burden of tuition costs.15
Diesel ASE Certification
UTI’s diesel mechanic training program is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation, a division of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).16
Graduates of the program are prepared to take ASE examinations and can substitute their training for one of the two years of experience required to take the exams to become ASE certified.
The Future of Diesel Mechanic Careers
Diesel engines power the trucks, equipment and generators that keep freight moving and industries running. With tens of thousands of job openings nationwide each year, trained diesel technicians continue to be needed across the U.S.
26,000+
12.87 billion
Careers You Could Pursue After Diesel Technician Training
From long-haul transportation and construction to agriculture, power generation and beyond, diesel technicians work wherever engines are built for endurance. Train for a role that powers America.
Entry-Level
Roles UTI grads are prepared for:77
- Diesel technician
- Heavy equipment repair technician
- Power generation technician
- Mobile diesel mechanic
- Agriculture technician
Advanced
Roles you may be able to pursue in time with hard work and experience:
- Master technician
- Fleet technician
- Shop Foreman
- Service manager
- Shop owner
Jobs UTI Diesel Mechanic School Students Landed After Graduation
See where training took them.6
From Warehouse Worker to Diesel Technician. Brandon’s story shows what’s possible when you commit to your goal.
“I feel like I really am where I’m supposed to be.” Pedro’s journey shows the benefit of hard work.
UTI Diesel Mechanic School Locations
UTI's Diesel Technology training program is offered at campus locations across the country. So, whether you live a few miles away or in a different state altogether, we can help you find the right school. Need help making the transition from home to school? Our Housing Services team can assist you.
VA benefits may not be available at all locations.
When Do Classes Start?
Diesel mechanic classes begin at regular intervals so you can start when it's convenient for you. We'll help those who are eligible apply for financial aid,10 submit required paperwork, set up campus tours and even help you find housing.
13 locations
Number of campuses that offer diesel mechanic training
Upcoming Start Dates
June 1st, 2026
Spots Still Open
June 22nd, 2026
Spots Still Open
July 13th, 2026
Spots Still Open
How Much Is Diesel Mechanic School at UTI?
Each campus provides a detailed cost breakdown outlining tuition and estimated living expenses so you can review your total cost before any financial aid you may qualify for.10 Our Financial Aid team is available to help you review your options and plan accordingly.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes! UTI teams with nationwide employers to help students nearing graduation search, apply and interview for jobs in their field. Some students even have jobs lined up before they graduate. Here’s how we’ll help:
- Professional résumé development
- Interview training techniques
- Access to a nationwide job database
- On-campus interviews
- Career networking events
- Career advancement services as an alumnus
Yes! UTI offers two specialized Cummins programs: Cummins Engines and Cummins Power Generation.
The Cummins Engines diesel mechanic classes provide training on midrange engines, heavy-duty engine overhaul, electronically controlled engines and more.46
The Cummins Power Generation courses focus on equipment and controls, as well as engine maintenance of electrical generators and power generation systems that run in a variety of commercial and personal applications.9
The median annual salary for salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $60,640 in May 2024,29 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). 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. View our diesel technician salary guide to learn more.
UTI’s Diesel Technology program is designed to be completed in less than a year.7 Learn more about our diesel mechanic classes here.
Yes. You can start training for a career as a diesel mechanic right after high school. To enroll in UTI’s Diesel Technology program, you’ll need to have a high school diploma or GED, complete an admissions interview, and submit your application. Some campuses may have additional steps, such as providing proof of age or identification.
Yes. If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member, you may be eligible to apply benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill® toward your diesel technician training. Additionally, programs like SkillBridge or Career Skills may also support your transition into civilian technician roles.
To become a diesel mechanic you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, then complete a formal training program like UTI’s 45-week Diesel Technology program. After graduation you can pursue manufacturer‐specific advanced training and you’re eligible to take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams, as training at UTI counts toward one of the required years of work experience.