A diesel mechanic might be the perfect choice if you’re wondering about earning a solid income without a four-year college degree. To become a diesel mechanic, you must solve daily problems and keep heavy-duty diesel engines working at their best. To become a diesel mechanic, explore how you can set yourself up for success.
A diesel mechanic is a tradesperson who chooses to specialize in working on vehicles with diesel engines. Such vehicles comprise tractor-trailers, trucks, big rigs, and buses. A diesel mechanic must have an exhaustive understanding of how engines and other parts function on vehicles.
Diesel mechanics generally work for trucking or bus companies. They can also operate in automotive repair shops functioning in vehicles with diesel engines.
Diesel mechanics inspect, repair, and maintain diesel engines for garages, dealerships, company fleets, and more. They operate on large vehicles like buses, trucks, boats, heavy equipment, and even some light–duty cars, trucks, and vans. Diesel mechanics perform unique services according to the needs and requirements.
Typical daily duties comprise:
After completing high school graduation, one can pursue automotive technician schools. These schools comprise associate’s degree programs that deliver a more well-rounded education. These programs contain general education requirements and dive deeper into diesel engine maintenance and repair mechanisms.
A certificate program can also help you to perform the job well. These programs are perfect for people who want to work as quickly as possible. However, certificate programs limit your capacity to advance your career ladder.
Aspirants can also learn to become diesel mechanics without formal education by working on the job. Nevertheless, these technicians often find it difficult to earn more and move up. Sometimes, finding a job outside the company that conducted the training can also be challenging.
Many diesel mechanics are also determined to pursue auto mechanic certification. This can be either through a national body like The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (A.S.E.) or from diesel engine manufacturers. Certifications are not always essential, but they are usually preferred. They can allow new mechanics to prove their expertise and showcase their knowledge to potential employers.
Becoming a diesel mechanic can take a few months to 2 years. Certificate programs vary from six to nine months. Associate’s degree programs can generally take two years if the student attends full-time. Pursuing certification after graduation can take a few extra weeks or even months. But the chances are high of landing a job after completing schooling with certification.
Diesel mechanic jobs need specific skill sets. Here is the glimpse of the essential skills that diesel mechanics should own:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (B.L.S.) implies the average annual salary for diesel mechanics is around $57,350. The diesel mechanics can be paid hourly for $25.17 per hour. According to B.L.S, the diesel mechanics career is expected to grow 10% through 2026. However, diesel mechanics who have completed automobile technician training can advance their careers more.
Diesel mechanics have a great career outlook indeed. These mechanics with the most advanced training have the most significant opportunity for advancement. They can also be promoted to the service manager or shop supervisor.
Experienced diesel mechanics can furthermore open their own repair shops. After knowing everything about this lucrative career option, it’s time to take action. Thus start your journey today with the automotive training institute.
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