Diesel Mechanic Careers & Salary Information
Diesel mechanics service and repair diesel engines in trucks, buses, construction equipment, and generators. Shops and fleets are always hiring, and experienced diesel techs with electronic diagnostics skills are in high demand.
National Salary Overview
Diesel Mechanic Specialties
Diesel Mechanics can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Truck Diesel Mechanic
Services and repairs diesel engines in Class 6-8 trucks at fleet shops and dealerships. The most common diesel mechanic role with plenty of jobs.
Heavy Equipment Diesel Mechanic
Works on diesel engines and hydraulic systems in excavators, bulldozers, and other construction equipment. Field service work pays a premium.
Marine Diesel Mechanic
Maintains and repairs diesel propulsion and auxiliary engines on boats, ships, and barges. Niche specialty with strong demand in port cities.
Diesel Diagnostics Specialist
Specializes in electronic engine diagnostics, emissions systems, and advanced troubleshooting on modern diesel engines. Tech-heavy role with top-end pay.
Explore Diesel Mechanic Topics
Diesel Mechanic Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
U
Frequently Asked Questions
Diesel Mechanic salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level diesel mechanics typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level diesel mechanics in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union diesel mechanics earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified diesel mechanic depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Diesel Mechanic work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified diesel mechanics have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a diesel mechanic's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.