5 Jobs to Pursue After Diesel Mechanic Training

Pursuing a certificate in diesel mechanic training comes with many benefits. Not only does it strengthen the reputation of the shop and the technicians who work there, but it also comes with a better pay, greater chances of career advancement, and greater overall knowledge. 

Once you’ve completed your education, it’s time to choose what type of diesel engine you’d like to work on. The good news is, there are lots of different career paths that automotive and diesel repair programs can offer.

Engine mechanic

Engine mechanics assess and service engines. Such careers are great for individuals who have great customer service skills and love to work with their hands. Various personal vehicles (including trucks and even some cars) have diesel engines, so it’s safe to say that engine mechanics are the most popular type of diesel mechanics. In this field, you would repair, rebuild, and construct diesel engines in your typical automotive setting such as a auto-mechanic shop or even a car dealership in North Olmsted, OH. Average salary for an engine mechanic starts at $42,600, but with experience and a strong reputation, this number can surely go up. 

Fleet mechanic

Fleet mechanics are typically employed by large corporations or companies to work on and maintain the company’s entire fleet of trucks. Mechanics who choose this field typically prefer to work on large commercial vehicles such as trucks or large vans. For big corporations or government entities that own fleets of trucks or large engine vehicles, a mechanic who fully specializes in one model or make of vehicles is preferred over general mechanics. This environment is great for someone who loves to specialize and constantly work on the same type of vehicle. It’s also perfect for those who prefer to work in a corporate setting with traditional hours. Pay for such mechanics typically starts around $20 per hour. 

Locomotive mechanic

Diesel mechanics who work on trains typically work for large locomotive companies that transport goods and even people. Daily tasks for this job include the regular maintenance of locomotives, as well as fixing them when they break down. Locomotive mechanics pay fluctuates according to experience, but typically, the salary for this line of work is around $48,000 annually.  

Heavy equipment maintenance specialist 

Even construction equipment needs repairs. Heavy equipment maintenance specialists work on all types of equipment, and can also work in a personal shop or for a heavy equipment dealer. These mechanics are often on-call, and are brought out to construction sites to service broken equipment. They can also be employed by companies to upkeep their machinery and fix and troubleshoot them should issues arise. Some equipment specialists also work on outdated or broken machines to bring them back to good working condition. 

Farm equipment mechanic

Farm equipment mechanics are similar to heavy equipment maintenance specialists. They often work for larger farm equipment companies, and they’re sent out on call or have vehicles come into their maintenance shop. They typically maintain and service farm equipment such as tractors, dairy machines, harvesters, and other field operation machines. Salaries for farm mechanics are typically around $43,000.  

Those who pursue a certificate in diesel mechanics have a plethora of career options to choose from. From independent work to corporations and even rural settings, diesel mechanics can choose to work in industries they can best thrive in. The best part is that once a diesel mechanic has chosen career path, it isn’t set in stone. They can always make a change if they are uncomfortable with the environment or prefer something new. Do what’s in the best interest of your career and passion.