3 Reasons to Become a Diesel Mechanic

Diesel mechanics, also known as diesel technicians, inspect, repair, and maintain any type of diesel engine, focusing mostly on buses and trucks. Depending on where they work and their skills, they may also work on boats, heavy machinery, bulldozers, and cranes.

Read more: Can I get ASE Certified Online?

An excellent reason to consider becoming a diesel mechanic is the pay. Depending on where you live, what kind of shop you work for, and what certifications you have, you can make a fairly high starting salary! On average, entry-level diesel technicians and mechanics earned a starting salary of $54,360 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highest paid mechanics worked for local governments, often in their Department of Public Works maintaining essential vehicles like snowplows, garbage trucks, and street cleaners.

Diesel mechanics who work for truck fleet dealerships can also often earn a higher salary; many dealerships pay mechanics commission on top of their base salary.

Read more: Is Becoming a Diesel Mechanic a Good Career?

While many employers require only a high school diploma for new diesel mechanics, even more are now looking for mechanics who have completed training in a career or technical school. Having a diploma from a recognized diesel mechanic training program assures employers that you have the right skills to successfully complete your job duties and can help you stand out against other competitive job applicants.

If you know you want to switch careers and start working as a diesel mechanic, the next step to get started is training. But if you have a full-time job and other responsibilities, going back to school to learn the skills you need to work in the field may seem like it won’t work out with your schedule. But you don’t have to give up your current job – or life – to become a diesel mechanic. One of the best reasons to study to be a diesel mechanic is that you can work and train at the same time.

Through an online training program, you can learn basic diesel engine operations, troubleshooting and repair, and more while preparing for industry certification like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification Medium-Heavy Truck Tests. Your courses will cover the essential knowledge to become a skilled diesel mechanic through self-paced classes you can complete around your schedule, from home.

Read more: How Can I Study Online for a Hands-On Job in the Automotive Industry?

If you’re someone who doesn’t like to work on the same exact thing every day, becoming a diesel mechanic might be a good fit for you! While they may do the same sort of work each day, the types of vehicles and the repairs they work on can change. That provides some variability and can ensure that you’re not bored!

Whether you’re already a diesel mechanic and want to refresh your knowledge to prepare for ASE certification or you’re looking to start a new, rewarding career in the field, Penn Foster’s self-paced, online Diesel Mechanic Career Diploma can help you take the next steps. Reach out to our expert admissions department to learn more about the program and how you can get started on a new career path today at 1-888-427-6500.