Diesel mechanics, otherwise known as diesel technicians, aren’t afraid to get grease on their hands and get the job done. They are passionate about diesel engines and have an in-depth understanding of a vehicle’s engine. Since it is the era of technological advancement, its constant evolution causes increase in customer demands. Based on this, the diesel mechanic career is expected to grow. With a diesel mechanic degree, you may work as a:
- Mobile diesel mechanic.
- Railroad and marine diesel technician.
- Power-gen technician.
- Diesel service writer.
- Agricultural mechanic.
- Diesel mechanic for trucking and transportation industry.
- Diesel mechanic for state and local governments.
- Diesel mechanic for automotive repair & maintenance industry.
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Diesel Mechanic Career Statistics for the U.S
If you want to find out how much you can make as a diesel mechanic in the U.S., here is a table that answers your question. The following statistics have been taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, for the category of Diesel Service Technicians and Mechanics, except the mean salary, which is for the sub-category of Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists.
| 2018 Mean Pay | $49,150 per year |
|---|---|
| Job Outlook, 2018-28 | 5% |
| Number of Jobs, 2018 | 285,300 |
| Employment Change, 2018-28 | 13,800 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
In 2016, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the national annual mean salary of $46,710 for Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists. This figure steadily improved through 2017 and 2018 and rose to $48,000 and $49,150 respectively. Considering the consistent rise in these figures, it can be assumed that the career of a diesel mechanic is rewarding.
As per the data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2018), Diesel Service Technicians and Mechanics were employed at approximately 285,300 jobs across country. Natural Gas Distribution was reported as the highest paying industry in this profession (Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists) with an annual mean salary of $89,400.
Diesel Mechanic Career Outlook in the U.S
The following bar-chart of the states with the highest employment level for Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists would further explain the scope of this occupation.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
The BLS states that more diesel-powered trucks would be required due to the increase in the movement of freight across the country. Therefore, more diesel mechanics would be needed to maintain and repair these vehicles.