Becoming a Diesel Mechanic

Is becoming a diesel mechanic the right career choice for you? This guide is here to answer your biggest questions and give you information about the job to help you make an informed decision. Being a diesel mechanic requires hard work, but it can be very rewarding, especially for people who like staying active and using their hands.

Find out what makes this job rewarding, what it entails, and what you need to start a successful career as a diesel mechanic.

What Is the Role of a Diesel Mechanic?

The role of a diesel mechanic comes with many duties. Diesel mechanics spend the majority of their time working on trucks and heavy machinery. This includes disassembling and reassembling engines, troubleshooting performance issues, changing oil, replacing tracks, working on fuel systems, maintaining steering mechanisms, and performing general repairs and preventative maintenance procedures.

The industry is becoming more technologically advanced, which means you need to work with computers and be able to diagnose problems with electrical systems and other related tasks. Your job will have you spending most of your time in a workshop or involve going directly to clients to work on their machinery. You may find yourself in a client’s workshop, in a fleet yard, or even on the side of the road to provide emergency service.

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Diesel Mechanic?

To become a diesel mechanic, you will need to have the right set of skills and qualifications. The following capabilities and characteristics represent a good idea of what you’ll need to start a career as a diesel tech:

• Vehicle knowledge: You must have a reasonable knowledge base concerning the vehicles and machines you’ll be working on to get started. Your job will require you to find and fix problems effectively, so brush up on commonly used machines and trucks that run on diesel.
• Knowledge of diesel engines: You need to know about diesel engines, their components, how they work and their operational mechanisms.
• Proficiency with repair tools and equipment: Your tools are what you use to get your job done. The better you are at using your tools, the better you are at your job. You will need advanced knowledge and proficiency with a range of diagnostic, maintenance and repair equipment. You’ll want to learn as much as possible about electrical and mechanical power tools.
• Problem-solving skills: Your job is all about finding and fixing problems with machinery. Your problem-solving skills will prove very useful during your day-to-day work.
• Attention to detail: Observation skills and paying close attention to details are key traits in a good diesel mechanic. Everything needs to be fitted and fixed properly for machines to work as intended, so you need to ensure every detail has been addressed.
• Computer literacy and software experience: Using computers, working with computer systems, using diesel diagnostic software and running other relevant electronics are all important parts of the job.
• Other requirements: A valid driver’s license is required for any diesel mechanic. A CDL is required for Field Service Technicians. Additionally, good communication and people skills will help you work with clients and collaborate with your co-workers.

How to Become a Diesel Mechanic?

If you want to become a diesel mechanic and think you’ve got what it takes, there are a few things you need to do before applying:

• Do your research: This guide is here to help answer any questions about becoming a diesel mechanic, but you’ll want to explore the subject in more depth before investing in tools and training. It would be worth your time to learn about career progression or talk to a diesel mechanic about their journey and experiences with the job.
• Finish your education: Most diesel mechanics are expected to have at least a high school diploma or the GED equivalent. While it is possible for diesel mechanics to start their careers straight after high school, pursuing formal training will likely give you the best start in the field and make it easier to find work. There are multiple training programs and courses you can look into to be more qualified for the role before starting your career.
• Gain relevant experience: Gain work experience as a diesel mechanic or develop relevant skills in a practical way while continuing your education. Prior work experience is something most employers look for in a candidate, and pursuing apprenticeships demonstrates an eagerness to learn.
• Get certified: You will need diesel mechanic certification to start your career on the right foot. Stowers recognizes AED accreditation.
• Become a ThinkBig Student: This is our internship program with an associate’s degree program included. You will gain valuable knowledge by splitting your time between the classroom and one of our 6 locations. Learn more about being a ThinkBig Student here.

What Is a Diesel Mechanic’s Salary?

As a diesel mechanic, you can expect to make an average starting salary of $24.03 per hour.

Is Becoming a Diesel Mechanic Hard?

Starting as a diesel mechanic is relatively easy in terms of the qualifications required and what you need to start your career. The job demands a lot of skills that you will pick up as you go, but formal training does help you start out, find a job and learn how to advance your skills in new ways.

There are some risks to the job, as you may occasionally have to work in dirty or hazardous conditions. However, the more skilled you are, the less likely you are to be affected by these potential risks. Working as a diesel tech comes with a lot of variety, as you will likely service an array of different vehicles and machines, making it great for those who enjoy puzzling through issues and continuing to learn as they work.

The job will ask a lot from you, both physically and mentally, but being physically fit and enjoying working with your hands will make diesel repair and maintenance an interesting and rewarding career.

Becoming a Diesel Mechanic Might Be Perfect for You

Stowers Machinery Corporation has been in the heavy equipment industry since 1960, providing sales and service for construction machinery, on- and off-highway trucks, and other diesel equipment across East Tennessee.

We have seen the job and industry change over the past decades, but we know that being a diesel mechanic is a rewarding and satisfying job for those who think they’re up to it. There is a lot to learn, but if you have what it takes, a long and prosperous career is waiting for you. This industry is full of opportunities and room to grow, so your position will always be moving forward and advancing.

We might have some openings for someone with your skill. Explore and keep up with our list of available job opportunities to find the job you’re looking for. If you would like to schedule a tour, please contact our Corporate Recruiter, Brad Manis 865-352-6777 or email him at bmanis@stowerscat.com.