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Diesel-powered engines are more efficient and durable than their gasoline-burning counterparts. These powerful engines are standard in trucks, locomotives and buses and are becoming more prevalent in light vehicles, including passenger vehicles, pickups and other work trucks.
Diesel service technicians and mechanics repair and maintain the diesel engines that power transportation equipment. Some diesel technicians and mechanics also work on other heavy vehicles and mobile equipment, including bulldozers, cranes, road graders, farm tractors and combines. Other technicians repair diesel-powered passenger automobiles, light trucks or boats.
Diesel maintenance is becoming increasingly complex, as more electronic components are used to control the operation of an engine. Also, new emissions standards require mechanics to retrofit engines with emissions control systems, such as emission filters and catalysts, to comply with pollution regulations.
How long will it take?
Most mechanics have a high school diploma or GED and additional training. Formal training provides a foundation in the latest diesel technology and instruction in the service and repair of the equipment that technicians will encounter on the job.
Amarillo College offers an 18-month training program.
How much will you make?
Median hourly earnings of bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists, including incentive pay, were $18.00 in 2006.
Where can you work?
Diesel service technicians and mechanics are employed in almost every industry, particularly those that use trucks, buses and equipment. The trucking industry is the largest employer.
AC can get you there!
